This is an extensive and well-written biography of conductor and composer Leonard Bernstein, focusing mainly on his professional achievements and glories with some attention paid to his personal life and the major events of his times — addressing, as well, his Jewish background and his connections to Israel. It is illustrated primarily with photographs, both in black-and-white and color, and the back-matter includes a timeline, a bibliography, a list of major works and websites. This book is an excellent, readable, educational resource and a comprehensive portrait of a fascinating man to whom music represented the finest parts of life. He was passionately involved in sharing this love of music with others, especially with the next generation. Recommended for ages 8 – 12.
Michal Hoschander Malen is the editor of Jewish Book Council’s young adult and children’s book reviews. A former librarian, she has lectured on topics relating to literacy, run book clubs, and loves to read aloud to her grandchildren.