This is a lovely little book with an enclosed CD of baroque music by the Venetian composer, Antonio Vivaldi (1678 1741). Sit back, put up your feet and read the quick, quaint stories with Vivaldis music in the background. To add to the readers enjoyment, there is a collection of color illustrations of Venice at work and play.
Some of the stories are quirky (the elephant brought to Venice for Carnival and who overstayed his welcome in a church); probably true (the gambler who bet the family palazzo and lost); and oh-so-fascinating (During the Renaissance, the city encouraged prostitutes to work in the city to overcome the menace of homosexuality. In 1509, prostitutes in Venice numbered 11,164!).
I have been somewhat perplexed by the problem of explaining this 6x6 book adequately. I found the stories whetted my interest without satisfying my curiosity. However, Ive read almost everything Donna Leon has written, thus I know she is a stickler for perfection.
In another review, I found the answer. Early day Venetians commonly carried a small book of stories or poems around in a pocket or reticule. This tiny tome gives a feeling of being a Venetian, while sharing story snippets that Venetians would have found interesting. The stories selected tell much about the character of those early Venetians. Bravo! This aptly-named book is a harmonious treat for the senses!
I gave this book a 5 because the baroque music CD alone was worth the price of this product. Donna Leons slants on the chosen stories were priceless!
Some of the stories are quirky (the elephant brought to Venice for Carnival and who overstayed his welcome in a church); probably true (the gambler who bet the family palazzo and lost); and oh-so-fascinating (During the Renaissance, the city encouraged prostitutes to work in the city to overcome the menace of homosexuality. In 1509, prostitutes in Venice numbered 11,164!).
I have been somewhat perplexed by the problem of explaining this 6x6 book adequately. I found the stories whetted my interest without satisfying my curiosity. However, Ive read almost everything Donna Leon has written, thus I know she is a stickler for perfection.
In another review, I found the answer. Early day Venetians commonly carried a small book of stories or poems around in a pocket or reticule. This tiny tome gives a feeling of being a Venetian, while sharing story snippets that Venetians would have found interesting. The stories selected tell much about the character of those early Venetians. Bravo! This aptly-named book is a harmonious treat for the senses!
I gave this book a 5 because the baroque music CD alone was worth the price of this product. Donna Leons slants on the chosen stories were priceless!
