Mozart's Sister
by Nancy Moser
Published by Bethany House Publishers
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Reviewed by Marty Medley
Baroness Maria Anna Walburga Ignatia Berchtold zu Sonneburg, also known as Nannerl Mozart, was Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's older sister. Musically gifted, as Mozart was; virtuous, as her brother was not. Nannerl had everything that Mozart did, plus some. However, she was born in a time that did not honor the talents of women.
Mozart's Sister tells the story of Nannerl and the Mozart family. Touted as the "wunderkind," Nan and Wolfie played for nobility throughout Europe. "What it all amounts to is this, that my little girl, although she is only twelve years old, is one of the most skillful players in Europe, an that, in a word, my boy knows in his eighth year what one would expect only from a man of forty." By the time she turned sixteen, her notoriety as a child prodigy faded. Her love of music did not, however, nor her desire for fame.
For the remainder of her life, she lived in the shadow of her brother. This did not mean that her own life had no purpose; rather she found that she was important to God. That was all that mattered, and she chose to believe Him. Her life took many twists and turns, but always she chose the better path. I admire her courage, faith, and loyalty.
Armchair Interviews says: Rich in history, strong fictional characterizations make this an enjoyable book to read. Will make you want to watch "Amadeus" again.