Headscratchers and Heroes: A few insights into the hows and whys of Italian opera, 1839-1896

The author's informal style makes this book on opera an easy cover-to-cover read. The specific chapter headings and Youtube URLs for viewing the operas at no cost make it a handy reference source. Those new to opera will get a feeling for the basics; more experienced opera fans will still find something new to discover, as some chapters contain information not usually available in English language opera books. While the main focus is Giuseppe Verdi, subjects will range widely within 19th century opera, including bel canto, the Paris Opera, and post-Verdi Italian opera composers.