An extraordinary anthology of reminiscences by a wide-ranging group of people—journalists, musicians, impresarios, or chance acquaintances—who were fortunate enough to have met the reclusive and secretive composer at various moments during his long life. It is without doubt the most fascinating and revealing book ever compiled about this elusive figure who took infinite pains to hide his true personality from posterity.... The entire book has been brilliantly researched, organized and edited by Marcello Conati.... Each entry has a relevant place within the chronology of Verdi's life, and every reference to an unfamiliar event or name in the text is elaborately explained in the copious footnotes, which often form little informative articles in themselves.... On every page, Verdi's warmth, humanity, keen perceptions and fierce artistic independence shine through the words of these observers, who without exception help sharpen our own understanding of the composer.