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The Secret Wish of Nannerl Mozart
Nannerl Mozart’s twelfth-birthday wish is to become a famous composer. She’s already considered a brilliant musician, touring Europe with her little brother, Wolfgang, and playing the clavier for queens and kings in the great courts. But Papa doesn’t take her seriously as a composer and won’t even teach her to play the violin or the organ. On top of that, Mama usually has a list of household chores for her, and Wolfi always manages to steal everybody’s attention.
Now a Sumach Classic, The Secret Wish of Nannerl Mozart is an inspiring blend of fact and fiction in which Barbara Kathleen Nickel brings the eighteenth century world of a talented young girl to life.
Now a Sumach Classic, The Secret Wish of Nannerl Mozart is an inspiring blend of fact and fiction in which Barbara Kathleen Nickel brings the eighteenth century world of a talented young girl to life.
208 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 1996
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
March 28, 2021
Although I have certainly enjoyed those facts and details about Maria Anna (Nannerl) Mozart’s life which author Barbara Nickel has firmly based on and anchored in factual and actual bona fide historical authenticity and reality in her The Mozart Girl, and which by the way also exists with an alternative earlier title, The Secret Wish of Nannerl Mozart (especially the general descriptions of 18th century Salzburg and other parts of Western Europe, Nannerl’s superior musical abilities and that she indeed often and rather with more than ample reason resents the preferential approach her younger brother Wolfgang always tends to receive), I am truly sorry to say that the more fantastical, that the imagined and fictional elements of Nickel’s featured text, they do rather leave me majorly annoyed and as such also rather intellectually frustrated.
For yes indeed, there truly and sadly is (at least in my humble opinion) a problematic and awkward textual mix of fact and fiction present in The Mozart Girl, with Barbara Nickel’s presented narrative feeling to and for me much too anachronistic with regard to the actual status of (most) women and girls in 18th century Europe, and thus in my opinion giving young readers a potentially very much erroneous and distorted vision of said time, and in fact with The Mozart Girl also rather seemingly pretending that 18th century women and girls’ lives and opportunities were much more even and equal to their male counterparts than the actual historical reality tends to demonstrate, a type of textual wish fulfillment that might feel comfortable to and for late 20th and 21st century readers to imagine and to with desire hope for, but as a state of actual affairs in The Mozart Girl, this is simply not the true and authentic reality, and is as such also something that in my opinion is in need of a bit of reader criticism. Since no matter how much Nannerl Mozart might have had the talent to become a professional music composer and to desire this for herself, in her actual, in her true life, in 18th century Salzburg, in 18th century Western Europe, she, Nannerl, would never ever have generally been even remotely considered for this (and her father Leopold was indeed and in fact also totally patriarchal regarding his daughter and as such always focussed on his young son, on so-called Wunderkind Wolfgang, on precocious and coddled little Wolfi).
And while I do appreciate reading in The Mozart Girl that Nannerl Mozart wants to become a music composer and not just a music player (like her younger brother and which in fact seems to be the truth, that Nanner Mozart really did in fact wish she could have had the same opportunities as hot brother Wolfgang and that she also would be encouraged by her father and by society regarding her music composition attempts and wants), the anachronistic ending (which does basically seem to insinuate that Nannerl might well one day reach her goals and even actually be encouraged regarding her “career” wishes), this does rather make me as an older and critical adult reader see proverbially red.
Because as already pointed out, in the patriarchal and hierarchical world of the European 18th century, a young girl (no matter how blessed with talent and ability) would generally and for the most part neither be able to break through traditional gender roles and barriers nor would she generally even dare to overtly wish and ask for this. Yes indeed, and historically realistically, Nannerl Mozart did excell at playing and performing music and it does look like she seemingly also and personally wanted to be able to become a famous composer like younger brother Wolfgang. But the latter was in fact generally an impossibility for its time and place (and especially considering Nannerl’s very strict and in all ways traditional with regard to gender roles father Leopold), and well, that the ending of The Mozart Girl actually seems to have Barbara Nickel showing the possibility and even the likely probability of Nannerl Mozart realising her dreams, all this might definitely be a nice enough fantasy, but for a historical fiction novel based on Nannerl Mozart’s life, this is from my own perspective both too far removed from historical reality and also quite an insult of omission and fantastical thinking regarding the actual lives and struggles of European girls during the specific time frame of the 1700s.
For yes indeed, there truly and sadly is (at least in my humble opinion) a problematic and awkward textual mix of fact and fiction present in The Mozart Girl, with Barbara Nickel’s presented narrative feeling to and for me much too anachronistic with regard to the actual status of (most) women and girls in 18th century Europe, and thus in my opinion giving young readers a potentially very much erroneous and distorted vision of said time, and in fact with The Mozart Girl also rather seemingly pretending that 18th century women and girls’ lives and opportunities were much more even and equal to their male counterparts than the actual historical reality tends to demonstrate, a type of textual wish fulfillment that might feel comfortable to and for late 20th and 21st century readers to imagine and to with desire hope for, but as a state of actual affairs in The Mozart Girl, this is simply not the true and authentic reality, and is as such also something that in my opinion is in need of a bit of reader criticism. Since no matter how much Nannerl Mozart might have had the talent to become a professional music composer and to desire this for herself, in her actual, in her true life, in 18th century Salzburg, in 18th century Western Europe, she, Nannerl, would never ever have generally been even remotely considered for this (and her father Leopold was indeed and in fact also totally patriarchal regarding his daughter and as such always focussed on his young son, on so-called Wunderkind Wolfgang, on precocious and coddled little Wolfi).
And while I do appreciate reading in The Mozart Girl that Nannerl Mozart wants to become a music composer and not just a music player (like her younger brother and which in fact seems to be the truth, that Nanner Mozart really did in fact wish she could have had the same opportunities as hot brother Wolfgang and that she also would be encouraged by her father and by society regarding her music composition attempts and wants), the anachronistic ending (which does basically seem to insinuate that Nannerl might well one day reach her goals and even actually be encouraged regarding her “career” wishes), this does rather make me as an older and critical adult reader see proverbially red.
Because as already pointed out, in the patriarchal and hierarchical world of the European 18th century, a young girl (no matter how blessed with talent and ability) would generally and for the most part neither be able to break through traditional gender roles and barriers nor would she generally even dare to overtly wish and ask for this. Yes indeed, and historically realistically, Nannerl Mozart did excell at playing and performing music and it does look like she seemingly also and personally wanted to be able to become a famous composer like younger brother Wolfgang. But the latter was in fact generally an impossibility for its time and place (and especially considering Nannerl’s very strict and in all ways traditional with regard to gender roles father Leopold), and well, that the ending of The Mozart Girl actually seems to have Barbara Nickel showing the possibility and even the likely probability of Nannerl Mozart realising her dreams, all this might definitely be a nice enough fantasy, but for a historical fiction novel based on Nannerl Mozart’s life, this is from my own perspective both too far removed from historical reality and also quite an insult of omission and fantastical thinking regarding the actual lives and struggles of European girls during the specific time frame of the 1700s.
March 14, 2019
A fascinating view of the child prodigy through the eyes of his older sister Nannerl. She was an brilliant musician, but was often overshadowed by her brother and society's expectations for females. Nickel allows Nannerl to shine and assert herself in a beautiful holiday tale. Brought tears to my eyes!
A big thank you to Second Story Press and NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of this middle grade title in exchange for an honest review.
A big thank you to Second Story Press and NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of this middle grade title in exchange for an honest review.
February 19, 2019
3.5/5
An interesting tale of Maria Anna Mozart, older sister to Wolfgang, who was also a talented, young musician. This was my introduction to Maria Anna (aka Nannerl) and her musical abilities. The Mozart Girl was a nice middle-grade tale of siblings, historical Europe, and girls' roles in the 18th century. It would make a nice addition to any classroom and inspired me to further research Nannerl's life.
An interesting tale of Maria Anna Mozart, older sister to Wolfgang, who was also a talented, young musician. This was my introduction to Maria Anna (aka Nannerl) and her musical abilities. The Mozart Girl was a nice middle-grade tale of siblings, historical Europe, and girls' roles in the 18th century. It would make a nice addition to any classroom and inspired me to further research Nannerl's life.
August 30, 2023
I would love to thank Second Story Press, Barbara Nickel and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I can't believe I read this book only now! I missed out so much!
This book is inspired by real events which the author states at the end, but parts of it are turned into fiction.
It's the story of Nannerl Mozart and her brother, Wolfgang (Wolfie for short).
Nannerl just turned 12 and she and her family must leave for their biggest trip yet: three years.
They will sing at instruments in different places and countries, meet queens and kings and other important people.
But other than that, we get to see how Nannerl is mistreated because she's a woman.
However, this doesn't stop her and she is doing everything she can to create her very own symphony.
This story was emotional, powerful and mesmerizing.
The relationship between characters felt very real, especially the innocence of kids.
The setting changed and I'm a true lover of adventure novels.
The book was exactly like a crescendo in a symphony! The tension raised, the stakes became higher and the end was impactful like an explosion.
I simply cried at the end. This little book is very impactful and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys good music, true feelings and realistic characters.
5 full stars.
I can't believe I read this book only now! I missed out so much!
This book is inspired by real events which the author states at the end, but parts of it are turned into fiction.
It's the story of Nannerl Mozart and her brother, Wolfgang (Wolfie for short).
Nannerl just turned 12 and she and her family must leave for their biggest trip yet: three years.
They will sing at instruments in different places and countries, meet queens and kings and other important people.
But other than that, we get to see how Nannerl is mistreated because she's a woman.
However, this doesn't stop her and she is doing everything she can to create her very own symphony.
This story was emotional, powerful and mesmerizing.
The relationship between characters felt very real, especially the innocence of kids.
The setting changed and I'm a true lover of adventure novels.
The book was exactly like a crescendo in a symphony! The tension raised, the stakes became higher and the end was impactful like an explosion.
I simply cried at the end. This little book is very impactful and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys good music, true feelings and realistic characters.
5 full stars.
February 1, 2019
The Mozart Girl by Barbara Nickel is an excellent introduction into the life of one of history’s most obscure composers - though thankfully now she is becoming less and less obscure, thanks to historians and writers like Barbara Nickel. Nannerl Mozart, older sister of composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, is one of my favorite historical figures, especially since I have also been a young lady musician for most of my life. I am always looking for works written about her, whether they are biographical, epistolary, or fiction like this book of Nickel’s.
Even though I knew what was going to happen to her from what I know of her history, I nervous and excited, and, I must say, pleasantly surprised while reading The Mozart Girl. I was compelled by young Nannerl Mozart’s dreams of becoming a famous composer and musician. In her actual history, Nannerl did not become nearly as famous as her brother Wolfgang due to her position as a woman in 18th century Europe, and I was very pleased with the changes Nickel made to Nannerl’s successes in this retelling of her early life. I will not say what these changes are, but know going into the book that they are quite satisfying.
Nannerl goes through struggles not only because of her position as an adolescent girl, but also because of how much her brother stole the spotlight. I think many older siblings go through some jealousy over the attention a younger sibling gets, even if that sibling is not a prodigy like Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Many young readers of this book will empathize with this particular struggle of Nannerl’s, and her struggles to fit into the world around her.
The Mozart Girl is a compelling story that readers, young and old, will enjoy. I especially recommend giving this book to young and aspiring musicians.
Even though I knew what was going to happen to her from what I know of her history, I nervous and excited, and, I must say, pleasantly surprised while reading The Mozart Girl. I was compelled by young Nannerl Mozart’s dreams of becoming a famous composer and musician. In her actual history, Nannerl did not become nearly as famous as her brother Wolfgang due to her position as a woman in 18th century Europe, and I was very pleased with the changes Nickel made to Nannerl’s successes in this retelling of her early life. I will not say what these changes are, but know going into the book that they are quite satisfying.
Nannerl goes through struggles not only because of her position as an adolescent girl, but also because of how much her brother stole the spotlight. I think many older siblings go through some jealousy over the attention a younger sibling gets, even if that sibling is not a prodigy like Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Many young readers of this book will empathize with this particular struggle of Nannerl’s, and her struggles to fit into the world around her.
The Mozart Girl is a compelling story that readers, young and old, will enjoy. I especially recommend giving this book to young and aspiring musicians.
March 15, 2020
The Mozart Girl follows the sister of the famous composer. We do get to see Mozart as a child, as well and it was nice to see him less serious.
I like Nannerl's character and how she was presented. I think this is a good empowering book for young artists as it shows how Nannerl overcame the obstacles in her way that her father kept putting up to stop her and for the focus to stay on Mozart.
While this was a story of fiction multiple different parts were true which was nice to see added in as well.
As a middle grader, I would have loved this book and seeing Nannerl defy the odds.
As an adult, I found it a good story that will empower the younger generation.
I like Nannerl's character and how she was presented. I think this is a good empowering book for young artists as it shows how Nannerl overcame the obstacles in her way that her father kept putting up to stop her and for the focus to stay on Mozart.
While this was a story of fiction multiple different parts were true which was nice to see added in as well.
As a middle grader, I would have loved this book and seeing Nannerl defy the odds.
As an adult, I found it a good story that will empower the younger generation.
October 10, 2019
I love this book has so much to look at. This is an incredible book at a look into the life of the Mozarts'. Nannerl is a big sister and a rejected musician becasue of her brother Wolfie. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves music and a good story.
January 13, 2019
Even tho this is a young adult book it can be geared to anyone who loves historical fiction.
I thought this would be an interesting book because he is one of my favorite composers. I learned a lot about Mozart. For instance I didn't know that he had a prodigy sister. Girls like that weren't recognized like that back in those days. I that is so not fair!! Girls can sometimes do much better than boys!!!
No wonder she didn't at first care whether or not she did anything for her musical career.
Wow!! I wish I could sit at the piano and listen by ear like she did and just play anything my little heart desires.
I didn't know that Wolfgang had a sister Nannerl which I had a hard time pronouncing. 13 is such a hard age. I could understand some of her frustration but for sibling riverly I cannot.
About that I think it would be neat to a sibling. NOT I'm too spoiled to want one.
This parent favoritism I didn't like. It's not fair for one child and not the other. Too much of this goes on in families in real life. It is happening in my husband's. Be say he's not jealous but deep down I know he really is.
I also didn't like that there was nothing aside the names which could teach you how to pronounce them.
But overall it was a delightful book.
I could hear the siblings squabbling over whatever it might be. And I could also see them at the 🎹 playing whatever piece they are working on and their papa leaning against it with a smile on his face
I took piano for 9 years and now I can't play worth a lick
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley. No compensations were received and all opinions are my own
I thought this would be an interesting book because he is one of my favorite composers. I learned a lot about Mozart. For instance I didn't know that he had a prodigy sister. Girls like that weren't recognized like that back in those days. I that is so not fair!! Girls can sometimes do much better than boys!!!
No wonder she didn't at first care whether or not she did anything for her musical career.
Wow!! I wish I could sit at the piano and listen by ear like she did and just play anything my little heart desires.
I didn't know that Wolfgang had a sister Nannerl which I had a hard time pronouncing. 13 is such a hard age. I could understand some of her frustration but for sibling riverly I cannot.
About that I think it would be neat to a sibling. NOT I'm too spoiled to want one.
This parent favoritism I didn't like. It's not fair for one child and not the other. Too much of this goes on in families in real life. It is happening in my husband's. Be say he's not jealous but deep down I know he really is.
I also didn't like that there was nothing aside the names which could teach you how to pronounce them.
But overall it was a delightful book.
I could hear the siblings squabbling over whatever it might be. And I could also see them at the 🎹 playing whatever piece they are working on and their papa leaning against it with a smile on his face
I took piano for 9 years and now I can't play worth a lick
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley. No compensations were received and all opinions are my own
January 1, 2019
Apparently Amadeus Mozart had an older sister known as Nannerl. This historical fiction is based on her life with her famous younger brother, when they went on the grand tour of Europe, mostly in what is now Germany and France.
What is truly amazing is realizing all this is happening a few years before the French Revolution. (The tour happens in 1763-1764, the French Revolution started in 1789). All the pomp, all the wealth, would bring this about. But in the meantime, the children get to see the glitter of the courts, and perform there.
And Nannerl is constrained by the norms of that time. She is not to play the violin, because that is considered a male instrument, nor can she play the organ.
Although some of the details are very true, others, such as how Nannerl felt, or thought, we have no knowledge of, because, although the diary she kept was real, much of it was destroyed in later years.
A very interesting look into this time, and place. Well written, and well researched.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
What is truly amazing is realizing all this is happening a few years before the French Revolution. (The tour happens in 1763-1764, the French Revolution started in 1789). All the pomp, all the wealth, would bring this about. But in the meantime, the children get to see the glitter of the courts, and perform there.
And Nannerl is constrained by the norms of that time. She is not to play the violin, because that is considered a male instrument, nor can she play the organ.
Although some of the details are very true, others, such as how Nannerl felt, or thought, we have no knowledge of, because, although the diary she kept was real, much of it was destroyed in later years.
A very interesting look into this time, and place. Well written, and well researched.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
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January 16, 2013Underwhelming, sadly. Not terrible, but a little bit like too many other books. I'd love to see more fiction on Nannerl, especially more compelling fiction.
August 20, 2019
DNF - 60%
December 18, 2019
Read this for school. Very few opinions other than Nannerl is whiny but with good reason.
February 20, 2019
Maria Anna Walburga Ignatia Mozart is the older sister of the famous Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and with such a long name to pronounce it's not a surprise that her family has given her a shorter name - Nannerl. This middle grade novel opens with Nannerl celebrating her 12th birthday. Shortly after the opening scene, the reader finds that Nannerl's birthday is overshadowed by her musical prodigy brother as he shows off his musical talents. This is not the only time in the book in which Nannerl is given less attention than her brother Wolfi. Although this is a historical fiction novel, the author gives plausible instances (some more historically accurate than others) in which Nannerl is overlooked by others and denied equal opportunities. For example, Nannerl is not allowed to play the violin or organ because she is a girl. I was drawn to this book because of its title and my lifelong obsession with Mozart. It was fun to learn about Mozart's sister and how she secretly defies the norms of society by writing a symphony and playing instruments that only men and boys should play. There are some author notes at the back of the book to help readers weed out what's historically accurate in the book from what is not. Fellow musicians (young and old) would probably be the readers most likely to enjoy reading this book. It would certainly inspire some musical girls to follow their dreams. If it had been set in America, this book would have been a great fit for the American Girls series of books. Thanks to NetGalley for an opportunity to review this book. All thoughts expressed in this review are my honest opinions of the book.
December 9, 2018
Nickel’s tale of Mozart’s sister, Nannerl, is similar to those of the Dear America series where real people and events are told through fictional stories. In The Mozart Girl, we follow the story of Nannerl and Mozart’s three-year tour of Europe.
Nannerl’s story is fun and one that many older siblings can relate to. A prodigy herself, she was overshadowed by Wolfie and the role afforded him by societies standards of the day. Nannerl wanted to learn to play the violin and organ, but those were for boys only. She wanted to compose symphonies, but was told girls did not compose symphonies and soon her days would be filled with taking care of the house, children, and her husband.
Where Nickel’s tale and history differ most, is in Nannerl’s journey. The story allowed her to do something she never did in real life (as far as history has mentioned, at least) and that is to defy her father, play her self-composed symphony, and receive a standing ovation and approval from her parents.
Even if not historically accurate at times, Nickel’s story of believing in oneself is a great tale for anyone to read.
Thank you NetGalley and Second Story Press for the opportunity to read an advance reader copy
Nannerl’s story is fun and one that many older siblings can relate to. A prodigy herself, she was overshadowed by Wolfie and the role afforded him by societies standards of the day. Nannerl wanted to learn to play the violin and organ, but those were for boys only. She wanted to compose symphonies, but was told girls did not compose symphonies and soon her days would be filled with taking care of the house, children, and her husband.
Where Nickel’s tale and history differ most, is in Nannerl’s journey. The story allowed her to do something she never did in real life (as far as history has mentioned, at least) and that is to defy her father, play her self-composed symphony, and receive a standing ovation and approval from her parents.
Even if not historically accurate at times, Nickel’s story of believing in oneself is a great tale for anyone to read.
Thank you NetGalley and Second Story Press for the opportunity to read an advance reader copy
February 14, 2019
Nannerl Mozart, a 12 year old musician, is living her dream. Traveling throughout Europe, meeting kings and queens, she and her brother Wolfgang share a special bond as the famous Mozart siblings. But Nannerl has a secret, one that she hasn't even shared with Wolfgang. She longs to be a composer.
Working in secret, Nannerl begins her composition while on tour with the family. In her spare time, she sneaks away to write music and learn the violin. But between Papa's ideas about women and music, and Wolfi's stealing the spotlight, will Nannerl be able to rise up and make a name of her own?
Loosely based on history, The Mozart Girl gives an inside glimpse into the story of a very famous and talented family. At the end of the book, the author includes a brief explanation of which "facts" were real and which were fictitious. While Nannerl was the talented older sister of Wolfgang Mozart, much of this story is fiction. And while I did enjoy the book, the tone was quite modern and a bit out of character. This is a book that I would gladly put in my daughter's hands, but with a clear understanding that this story is far from accurate.
*Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Working in secret, Nannerl begins her composition while on tour with the family. In her spare time, she sneaks away to write music and learn the violin. But between Papa's ideas about women and music, and Wolfi's stealing the spotlight, will Nannerl be able to rise up and make a name of her own?
Loosely based on history, The Mozart Girl gives an inside glimpse into the story of a very famous and talented family. At the end of the book, the author includes a brief explanation of which "facts" were real and which were fictitious. While Nannerl was the talented older sister of Wolfgang Mozart, much of this story is fiction. And while I did enjoy the book, the tone was quite modern and a bit out of character. This is a book that I would gladly put in my daughter's hands, but with a clear understanding that this story is far from accurate.
*Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
April 8, 2019
This is a great historical middle grade novel.
I didn’t know this story about Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s older sister. She was also a musician, but since she was a girl, she wasn’t given the same opportunities or credit as him. It’s a shame that just because she was a girl, she wasn’t able to pursue her dreams of playing music. Still today, we know his name but her name isn’t as recognizable.
I found it fascinating to read about how they learned and played instruments in the 18th century. I play the piano, but not as well as those kids, and I only started to learn when I was a teenager. It must have been amazing to see the children play their instruments so well.
I loved this story!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I didn’t know this story about Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s older sister. She was also a musician, but since she was a girl, she wasn’t given the same opportunities or credit as him. It’s a shame that just because she was a girl, she wasn’t able to pursue her dreams of playing music. Still today, we know his name but her name isn’t as recognizable.
I found it fascinating to read about how they learned and played instruments in the 18th century. I play the piano, but not as well as those kids, and I only started to learn when I was a teenager. It must have been amazing to see the children play their instruments so well.
I loved this story!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 3, 2019
I simply adore this book.
From the first page, it is beautiful and magical and while reading it, I felt like Nannerl when she composes. The book flowed through me in images and music. A magical and very rare thing. I love it, when a book can truly transport me into a different world and reality fades away.
That is the true magic of books for me, and I value the experience because it happens so rarely.
I highly recommend getting this book by B.C. author Barbara Nickel. I can’t guarantee you will find the same magic I did, but at minimum you will enjoy a well written book about a real person, who was ignored by history, because her brother overshadowed her. It’s a shame. If Nanerlhad anyone else for a brother, she would be celebrated as a genius.
From the first page, it is beautiful and magical and while reading it, I felt like Nannerl when she composes. The book flowed through me in images and music. A magical and very rare thing. I love it, when a book can truly transport me into a different world and reality fades away.
That is the true magic of books for me, and I value the experience because it happens so rarely.
I highly recommend getting this book by B.C. author Barbara Nickel. I can’t guarantee you will find the same magic I did, but at minimum you will enjoy a well written book about a real person, who was ignored by history, because her brother overshadowed her. It’s a shame. If Nanerlhad anyone else for a brother, she would be celebrated as a genius.
February 9, 2019
The older sister of the talented Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Nannerl, feels overshadowed by her brother. As she tours Europe with her family, she does all she can to prove she is a composer in her own right.
This was a lovely read. Though geared to a younger audience (middle grade, I would guess), I enjoyed learning about this young composer I'd never heard of before. Nannerl was a feisty young lady and a skilled musician. The portrayal of her in this book was a delight.
The details of the tour were my favorite part. All of the nobles/dignitaries Nannerl met were interesting, and the plot was intriguing.
I would recommend this to readers who enjoy middle-grade historical fiction. I received a free copy from NetGalley for reviewing purposes.
This was a lovely read. Though geared to a younger audience (middle grade, I would guess), I enjoyed learning about this young composer I'd never heard of before. Nannerl was a feisty young lady and a skilled musician. The portrayal of her in this book was a delight.
The details of the tour were my favorite part. All of the nobles/dignitaries Nannerl met were interesting, and the plot was intriguing.
I would recommend this to readers who enjoy middle-grade historical fiction. I received a free copy from NetGalley for reviewing purposes.
September 14, 2014
Kudos! One of the most controversial stories way back in the Classical era. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was palpably gifted, but his poor older sister, Maria Anna Walburga Ignatia Mozart, was painfully intelligent too. She could really be a renowned composer! BUT Leopold Mozart pushed Nannerl to abandon her musical career....it wasnt a surprise for the people of 17th century: they thought women were stupid.
This could've been a longer novel tho. I was clearly fascinated by the musical innovation! I could really relate to the life events of the Mozarts....I love music! And when I was 7, I learned how to play the piano by ear. I wish one day I could also compose a symphony....
This could've been a longer novel tho. I was clearly fascinated by the musical innovation! I could really relate to the life events of the Mozarts....I love music! And when I was 7, I learned how to play the piano by ear. I wish one day I could also compose a symphony....
December 17, 2018
This book was very well written. The main character is Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s older sister, Maria Anna (Nannerl). She’s a prodigy herself, but, because she’s a girl, lives in the shadows of her brother, Wolfgang (Wolfi). For her 12th birthday, she wishes to become a great composer someday. However, nobody takes her seriously. During the timeline of this book, the Mozart family goes on their grand world tour, which takes them away from home for 3 years. She and her brother play for queens, kings and other dignitaries. She even writes her own symphony, but will she get to play it for anyone?
April 5, 2019
The Mozart Girl by Barbara Nickel is a historical fiction book for any age group.
This book is about Nannerl, the older sister of famous and well-known Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Nannerl was a talented musician and composer living in the time of when girls are not supposed to show their talents and have to conform to all sorts of rules. Nannerl does not want to conform but wants to show that she can be just as good as her brother (if not better)
I enjoyed reading this book as I’m sure everyone who reads it will agree.
I would like to thank Second Story Press and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book is about Nannerl, the older sister of famous and well-known Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Nannerl was a talented musician and composer living in the time of when girls are not supposed to show their talents and have to conform to all sorts of rules. Nannerl does not want to conform but wants to show that she can be just as good as her brother (if not better)
I enjoyed reading this book as I’m sure everyone who reads it will agree.
I would like to thank Second Story Press and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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April 26, 2012Nannerl Mozart's twelfth birthday wish is to become a famous composer. She's already considered a brilliant musician, touring Europe with her little brother Wolfgang and playing the clavier for queens and kings in the great courts. But Papa doesn't take her seriously as a composer and won't even teach her to play the violin or the organ. Mama usually has a list of household chores for her, and Wolfi always manages to steal everybody's attention. In this wonderful blend of fact and fiction, Barbara Nickel brings the eighteenth century world of a talented young girl to life.
August 25, 2014
When I first read this book it was on a saturday morning, and as soon as I started it, I couldn't put it down. It follows the life of Nannerl Mozart, the sister of wolfgang Mozart. When you read it the characters speak out to you and you find yourself sharing the excitement, anger, and jealousy that they are feeling!
jealousy
AN AMAZING BOOK!!!
jealousy
AN AMAZING BOOK!!!
August 31, 2018
I read an advanced reading copy of this book.
What if girls were given the same chances as boys? What would the world be like if they were given those chances?
This is the question The Mozart Girl raises. It’s engaging read, and one that reminds us that girls can do anything boys can do - they just have to be given the chance.
What if girls were given the same chances as boys? What would the world be like if they were given those chances?
This is the question The Mozart Girl raises. It’s engaging read, and one that reminds us that girls can do anything boys can do - they just have to be given the chance.
May 12, 2020
This is such a little book but still managed to pack in so much. It reminded me of the Royal Diaries books, which is a very good thing. I hope Barbara Nickel writes more like this. I felt so much for Nannerl and I liked how the author balanced her love for and jealousy of her younger brother. I'm really glad I decided to read this one.
April 7, 2021
I read this aloud as part of Heart of Dakota's Revival to Revolution curriculum package. My son and I enjoyed getting a peek into Mozart's life through the lens of his sister, Nannerl. The text brought up good conversation points about jealousy, talent, misogyny, and calling. Definitely highly recommend.
February 18, 2014
I enjoyed the relationship of Nannerl to her family, particularly her younger brother. I believe this novel gives a good idea of how things might have been for her. I enjoyed this story, very interesting.
March 31, 2020
it was a very enjoyable read. The story is really simple and entertaining. It's a perfect book for children to read because it is very motivational. The story talks about the talent and passion the two Mozart children have for music and are eager to strive for opportunities to learn and perform.
August 3, 2011
Great book! It was neat to read about mozart and his sister when they were kids, even though it is based on fiction.
September 16, 2016
Loved this book as a young teen!
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