ROMANCE AND MUSIC.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 21165, 23 April 1932, Page 8 (Supplement)

ROMANCE AND MUSIC.

GENIUS OF A JEWISH LAD

A very charming story indeed is told by Mr. George Oleson in the novel just published under tho title, " Violin. ' There are many oldir books which tell of the struggles and ultimate triumphs of a musical genius, bu < few of them give such a readable and entertaining story. The central figure is David Benoni, a lovable Jewish boy, who comes of Russian peasant stock. David's passion for tho interpretation of mi. sic is fostered by his old grandfather, who is quick to recognise the lad's genius for the violin. In the home the old man has no influence, and because the rest of the family are scornful of young David's ability his grandfather arranges that he and David shall take the road freedom and success by running away together.

Before his departure romance comes into David's life when chance enables him to become friendly with the tiny Russian Princess who lives at the " Big House outside the village. Wisely the children keep their friendship a secret, for she of the nobility must not have playmates among the peasants. The description of David's midnight visit to tho homo of his Princess is a delightful interlude. In one of the largest rooms, with the bright moonlight streaming in through the windows, she dances like thistledown to tho fairy music from his violin.

Eventually, with the faithful grandfather, the boy is launched on his high adventure. They make their way to Dresden, where David studies under the* great master, working as a teacher at the same time. lie meets a great number of interesting people, while lite hands him many knocks and few .successes. Triumph comes at last, of cturse, for this is an oldfashioned story in which the courageous cwics have their just reward. "Violin," by George Oleson. (Murray's Imperial Library.)