A young journalist’s interview with a world-famous violinist reveals his family’s secret story of World War II and the Holocaust and the power of music to transform and heal. Paolo Levi won’t perform Mozart because it was poisoned for him when he was forced to play it in a concentration camp. Many years later, though, it reunited his family. The subdued watercolors of beautiful Venice canals and dark death camps enrich this multilayered nar ration. Author was 2003–2005 British Children’s Laureate. mjw

Originally published by Walker Books Great Britain, in 2007.

When cub reporter Lesley is sent to Venice to interview a world-renowned violinist, the journalist is told she can ask Paolo Levi anything about his life and career as a musician, but on no account must she ask him the Mozart question. Paolo has finally realised he must reveal the truth.