Imagining Don Giovanni

by Anthony Rudel

Set in Prague in 1787, tells of the production of Mozart's Don Giovanni as Mozart and librettist Da Ponte argue over the themes of the opera and over the ideas that the infamous Casanova brings to the scene.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Music

288 pages, Hardcover

First published August 2, 2001

Reviews

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have conflicting thoughts about this one. I stand with my four stars because it kept me captivated but I'm not sure if that's purely because of plot or because of my love of opera. Either way, it's a fun read for a lover of Mozart and opera. If you really know Mozart's operas, the author has some cute references to moments in his other operas. It's a little saucy but I loved the incorporation of real life Don Giovanni's. Fascinating.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

THAT WAS SO GOOD. I absolutely love the play/film Amadeus, so getting to read more about Mozart's life was fascinating. I especially enjoyed the bits that dealt with moments of his life that are also mentioned in Peter Shaffer's play. Those were neat, since before reading the play, I knew next to nothing about his personal life. There was so much history within this story, and I really enjoyed learning about his operas The Marriage of Figaro and Don Giovanni, both of which I now am determined to see sometime in my life. I liked every single character in the book, and the writing was simplistic but engaging. Nothing amazing, but the story was so interesting that it made up for the lack of detail. Also, I had no idea that Mozart was acquainted with the legendary Casanova, so getting to read their interactions was just plain awesome. Mozart is such a complex and fascinating man. I need to read more books about his life! If you enjoy music, opera, history or books about deceit and scandal, read this one. It's light and easy-going but wildly entertaining.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a whimsical and inviting story. A fictional tale of Mozart's creation of the opera Don Giovanni. It is set in Prague, at the turn of the century. France is threatening revolution, and the period of great change in thought, entertainment, and the world is about to unfold. That, of course, is the large picture, the smaller--more intimate tale--is between lovers. The book focuses on the character of Casanova/Don Juan/Don Giovanni or whatever you know him by. I inserted the book summary, which you can read by clicking the book cover.

[Virginia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm sure I enjoyed this book as much as I did because: 1) Reading Cassanova's memoirs was all the rage when I was in my 20s, 2) I spent my 59th birthday in Prague and loving every minute, and 3) love the music though haven't yet seen the opera. And, HEY!! Now I'm caught up for 2011. Happy New Year!