Grisha: The Story of Cellist Gregor Piatigorsky

By M. Bartley

Book Overview

GRISHA: The Story of Cellist Gregor Piatigorsky. This books tells the story of a struggle between father and son, both aspiring musicians. While the father fails in the musical world of Tsarist... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0976002302
• ISBN13: 9780976002307
• Release Date: May 2006
• Publisher: Otis Mountain Press
• Length: 392 Pages
• Weight: 1.06 lbs.

Customer Reviews

Not just another biography!

I decided to read this book because it was recommended to me by a friend. I'm not a big fan of cello music or Russian history, but the person told me this book would surprise me and they were right! This biography is not written in the dry and often confusing way most biographies are written --- laced with quotes from letters or other books. This is written in the form of a novel and immediately draws the reader into the life of this fascinating character. Bartley has done extensive research on Piatigorsky, assuring us the facts in the story are all documented through letters and conversations with his family members, but she presents it in a way unlike any other biography I've ever read. The reader instantly feels a connection to the young Piatigorsky. I couldn't put the book down because this man's life was so challenging and interesting that I had to find out, "what happened next." After I finished the book I recommended it to my husband who isn't much of a reader, and he had the same reaction -- becoming involved with the story right away and finishing it it just a few days. I strongly recommend this book to all readers -- young or old, music lovers or not. You will NOT be disapointed!!

Inspiring Story

GRISHA is a beautifully written and inspiring story about the struggle of a poor Jewish child in Tsarist Russia. His will and talent compel him to survive incredible poverty and misfortune. Our book club selected this book to read. None of us are musicians or historians, but all loved the book. The author, Ms. Bartley, called in to our book club and spoke to us on speaker phone. She was great, both informative and entertaining! I highly recommend this book.

A must read!

A wonderful story. I couldn't put this book down. Beautifully written. I want to learn more about Gregor Piatigorsky and listen to his music.

Not just for musicians!

I loved this story! The characters' lives are so fascinating...and to think I had never heard of him before. Truly a wonderful read!

Grisha--A Russian-American Bildungsroman

Excellent! A coming-of-age story that will keep you reading AND leave you begging for more.