Oscar Hammerstein II and the Invention of the Musical

De: Laurie Winer

Narrado por: Tanya Eby

You know his work—Show Boat, Oklahoma!, Carousel, The King and I. But you don't really know Oscar Hammerstein II, the man who, more than anyone else, invented the American musical. Among the most commercially successful artists of his time, he was a fighter for social justice who constantly prodded his audiences to be better than they were.

Diving deep into Hammerstein's life, examining his papers and his lyrics, critic Laurie Winer shows how he orchestrated a collective reimagining of America, urging it forward with a subtly progressive vision of the relationship between country and city, rich and poor, America and the rest of the world. His rejection of bitterness, his openness to strangers, and his optimistic humor shaped not only the musical but the American dream itself. His vision can continue to be a touchstone to this day.

©2023 Laurie Winer (P)2023 Tantor

Hard to listen to

While the book contains some great information about Oscar Hammerstein, it’s very difficult to remain focused on the narration. It was so devoid of humanity it sounded artificial.

Extraordinary view of Hammerstein’s life, career, and influence.

I loved this book. Deeply researched, and lovingly told, it is a stunningly ambitious recreation of the golden age of musical theater as seen through Winer’s unique critical perspective.

A good Oscar Hammerstein biography

The book is fantastic and carefully researched. I enjoyed this biography very much. The narrator on the other hand was very annoying. Her voice seemed fake. She wasn’t for me. I stuck with the book because I enjoyed learning the facts about Mr. Hammerstein and his personal life.