Handel and the Famous Sword Swallower of Halle - Hardcover

Stevens, Bryna

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0399215484 ISBN 13: 9780399215483

Publisher: Philomel Books, 1990

Synopsis

Relates how a determined aunt and a boy who swallowed a knife made it possible for young George Frederic Handel to study music despite his father's strong objections.

About this title

From School Library Journal:

Kindergarten-Grade 3-- In spite of his father's dislike of music, young George Frederick Handel is both introduced to and encouraged to enjoy it by his Aunt Anna. Having won fame for his skillful surgery, George Handel, Senior is invited to the duke's castle where young George Frederick discovers a pipe organ and impresses everyone with his playing. His father reluctantly agrees to allow the boy to pursue formal music lessons. The musical events presented are correct and well researched, allowing this volume to be a good introduction to a portion of Handel's childhood. However, pronunciation keys, lengthy definitions, and unnecessary explanations placed within parentheses constantly interrupt the story's flow and distract both listeners and readers. In addition, several insignificant characters and locations are introduced, further confusing and diverting the audience's attention. The single- and double-paged illustrations show the baroque ornamentation; the clothing, settings, instruments, and activity suggested by the detailed colored-pencil pictures help evoke the flavor of the 17th century. An acceptable addition for those needing to bolster music collections. Otherwise, bypass it. --Linda Zoppa, Queens College Laboratory Schools
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About this edition

• Publisher: Philomel Books
• Publication date: 1990
• ISBN 10: 0399215484
• ISBN 13: 9780399215483
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 32