On the cusp of World War II, young Jewish American virtuo - so Leonard Bernstein pursues his enor - mous passion for music against his con - servative father’s wishes. Inspired sto - rytelling, photographs and documents chronicle Bernstein’s childhood to his successful debut at Carnegie Hall. Fore - word, Epilogue,

Not for everyone, but I liked this biography of the steps that Leonard Bernstein, a Jewish kid from Boston, took to enter the exclusive world of orchastra conducting. As a musical theater geek, you can't look at 20th century musical theater and not know who he is, but I thought this book would be a good one for kids/young teens who are into music in a big way. I suspect that theough they might not be fans of the genre, the act of falling in love with music, of being obsessed with it, are the same no matter the insterment or type of music. Also, the truth that while his father supported him financially, he never wanted his son to be a musician. For kids pursuing an unusual career path, they will empathize with Len and appherate the courage it took for him to stick to his guns. ( )

A chronicle of the pianist/composer/conductor’s early life – from his childhood in Boston to his conducting debut at Carnegie Hall, is full of photographs, direct quotes, and interesting anecdotes. The excellent back matter includes biographies of famous associates, a discography, bibliography, and an index. ( )

Will make you go forward with your dream . . . father opposed and mother wept, while Leonard Bernstein made music his life.

Biography of composer/conductor Leonard Bernstein for middle grade readers. Includes excellent photos. ljh 5/20/12