Review Detail

Experience the journey of luthier Gaspar Borchardt, as he dreams of making the finest violin. This ambition takes him to forests around the world to find the perfect, ancient trees, where he has to decide if his work is worth the cost to the forest. In the end, he is able to achieve his dream, but in a way that expresses his craftmanship and respects the bounty of nature.

This book is interesting in so many ways. First, it's sharing a piece of history that's often overlooked (musicians and composers are relatively famous - instrument makers are less often praised). It also touches on the relationship between music and nature, and the different types of beauty expressed in each. The approach to environmental conservation is also notably nuanced - after spending time in the forest, Borchardt considers the cost of extracting resources for his own purposes and what he wants to do with his craft, without going to the extremes of condemning all wood harvesting or things like that.

Pick this up for the music lovers, or those who wonder how instruments are made. There's beautiful illustrations on every page, all printed on eco friendly paper.