The Joy of Classical Music: A Guide for You and Your Family

by Joan Kennedy

The former wife of Senator Kennedy shares her love of classical music, showing readers how they can come to appreciate it and introducing them to orchestral and chamber music, dance, and opera. 50,000 first printing. $50,000 ad/promo. Tour.

Genres: Music, Nonfiction

217 pages, Hardcover

First published October 10, 1992

Reviews

[Sandy · Rating 1 out of 5]

I found her "guide" to be very confusing. It is not at all what I would expect. If I knew nothing of classical music I would not have learned much at the end of this book. I didn't mind her story but once she started talking about different aspects she lost me.

[Lisa · Rating 1 out of 5]

The primary use for this book is as an example of how not to relate to the audience.

Joan Kennedy gets in her own way trying to convince the reader that others see her as a classical music expert. Arguably, the author fancies herself more interesting than the purported subject of classical music. The actual content of the book does not proportionately match the title itself and the description on the back and flaps. This bait and switch indicates a total lack of respect for the reader's intelligence and financial situation.

This book is an autobiography, not a guide to understanding classical music. This book is in no way "A Guide for You and Your Family" to learn about classical music... other than the part it plays in the lives of the Kennedy family. The bulk of the Table of Contents is broken down into themes that relate to the author's life and not music. There are 16 pages of photographs of Joan Kennedy and her famous family and no pictures involving classical musicians outside her circle. Even the chapter that seemed most promisingly about music--A Short History of Classical Music--is cluttered with "I".

The elements regarding classical music promised on the flaps and back are most likely mentioned in passing. However, to suggest that classical music is the focus of the book is misleading.

Due to the lack of objectivity and deception—either conscious or subconscious—of the author, I do not trust her as a valid source of information on any subject… including the influence that music has played within the Kennedy family. Therefore, this book is not recommended for anyone.

[Cathi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a joy. I thoroughly enjoyed it! (And I learned a lot, too.)