Thursday, March 3, 2011

Before There Was Mozart by Lisa Cline-Ransome

Did you know that a mulatto musician inspired Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart?


The subtitle of this book is:  The Story of Joseph Goulogne, Chevalier de Saint-George.  Schwartz & Wade Books sent me a picture book for review (thank you).  It was published at the end of January, so you can get a copy at your local bookstore now.


Joseph was born in the West Indies.  His father was a French aristocrat and his mother was a slave.  When his father moved back to Paris, he took his family with him.  Joseph was amazed by the buildings and the culture there.  He had a bit of trouble because he was a mulatto, but he was so interested in music, he didn't let it bother him.


He had performances in spots where a black man had never stood before.  But his music mesmerized the crowds and there were no negative comments.


The text flows well, the illustrations are as serious as the young man and his music, and the story of his life is amazing, even now.


If your child has an interest in music or history, share this book with them.  The issue of racism is in the story, too, but  it didn't slow Joseph down.


Get a copy and read this amazing story.  It's a trip back in time.

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