Many of us learned about Mozart in middle school or in a music history class, but beyond the man's accomplishments not much else is mentioned. Mozart was not an island, and had siblings, including an older sister Maria, nicknamed Nannerl. Together, they imagine and create "the Kingdom of Back," a fantastical place full of magic where they can escape society's, and their parent's, expectations and be themselves. With this kingdom, Nannerl has hopes that she will be remembered long after she lives her life. She has been forbidden to continue performing music, and she knows that her brother is more likely to make his mark on history because of society's expectations and its limitations on her own aspirations.
This story is at its best when it focuses on the relationship between Nannerl and Mozart, and how Nannerl's personal dreams intersect with her familial love and obligations. As the tale winds onward, Nannerl must come to grips with the reality of her situation, even as fantasy presses in on her and her family. I found this story to be beautifully bittersweet, and I am glad that Marie Lu opened a window into the lives of these two siblings, and the Kingdom of Back.
Thank you BookishFirst for giving me the opportunity to read this book early!
This story is at its best when it focuses on the relationship between Nannerl and Mozart, and how Nannerl's personal dreams intersect with her familial love and obligations. As the tale winds onward, Nannerl must come to grips with the reality of her situation, even as fantasy presses in on her and her family. I found this story to be beautifully bittersweet, and I am glad that Marie Lu opened a window into the lives of these two siblings, and the Kingdom of Back.
Thank you BookishFirst for giving me the opportunity to read this book early!