Why Beethoven Threw the Stew

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Enjoyable intro to the ol' maestros - Rated
It's the anecdotes and the way in which the old masters are portrayed as human beings of flesh and blood that are the book's main attraction, although I personally find that at times Isserlis can be a little condescending to the reader (even considering that the book is aimed at children rather than at grown-ups) and longwinded in trying to come to a (humorous) point.
Also the choice of composers Schumann and Stravinski is slightly odd (Schubert and Wagner come to mind as more obvious alternatives), but of course based on personal preference. Perhaps it's just as well not always to go for the obvious.
It would be a good idea if Isserlis were to write a book along the same lines for grown-ups; it might win over quite many who think of classical music as only for the high brow.

Great fun - and educational! - Rated
Presenting classical music and composers to children is always tricky - they tend to be associated with "stuffy" adults - but this book makes a pleasant change. You can read it together with younger children, and then listen to the music suggested in the book, and it means a whole lot more to them. I think most adults would enjoy this too!

Good for Adults too! - Rated
This book brings to life the characters of the great composers, showing just how unique and interesting they were. A much-needed injection of humour into the world of classical music, that will hopefully challenge the notion that classical music is stuffy and for snobs only....a view held by adults as well as children!

Super - Rated
I loved this book, and learnt a lot I didn't know about some great composers. We could argue about inclusions / exclusions forever - don't let's.

Excellent gift for any child interested in classical music.

The only lack I felt was of any accompanying CD - but you can remedy that easily at Amazon.co.uk, no doubt....