The Great Passion
The Great Passion
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2022
Book Brief
Beta272
Novel • Fiction
Leipzig, Germany • 1720s
•
World History•
Music2022
Adult
16-18 years
Super Short Summary
The Great Passion by James Runcie follows the story of a young boy, Stefan Silbermann, who is sent to a Lutheran boarding school in Leipzig. There, he encounters composer Johann Sebastian Bach and becomes involved in the creation of Bach's "St Matthew Passion," experiencing themes of faith, music, and personal growth in 18th-century Germany.
Informative
Melancholic
Emotional
Contemplative
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
1,931 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Great Passion by James Runcie offers a poignant exploration of Bach's creative process, with richly drawn historical settings and emotive insights into human suffering and redemption. Critics praise its lyrical prose and depth, though some find the pacing uneven. Overall, Runcie's portrayal of art's transformative power resonates with readers.
Who Should Read The Great Passion?
Readers who appreciate historical fiction, classical music narratives, and themes of faith will enjoy The Great Passion by James Runcie. Fans of The Music Shop by Rachel Joyce or Bel Canto by Ann Patchett, which also explore music's impact on life, will find this novel compelling.
1,931 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
272
Novel • Fiction
Leipzig, Germany • 1720s
•
World History•
Music2022
Adult
16-18 years
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