ChildrensPictureBook.info Review

Handel Who Knew What He Liked
By M.T. Anderson
Illustrator: Kevin Hawkes
Publisher Candlewick Press

When we look back it seems only natural that George Frederic Handel would become a great composer. The "Hallelujah Chorus" of Handel's Messiah is one of the best-known pieces of classical music. But things weren't so certain for Handel, as this engaging children's biography clearly presents. Handel's story is a story of perseverance from the time he was young and smuggled a clavichord into the attic of his home when his father forbid him to study music to the time when his operas grew out of favor and he turned to composing oratorios.

A blend of factual detail and inspirational storytelling, this biography is an impressive introduction to this baroque composer. The illustrations are a pleasant accompaniment to the story of a man whose music is noted for its beauty and vibrancy and it has just the right touch of sauciness, like Handel's Italian arias.

Meant for readers ages eight to twelve years old, this biography would also work as an introduction to Handel for older students before undertaking a more in-depth study of his life and work.

Handel Who Knew What He Liked

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