The Maestro
by T. Davis Bunn
The Maestro is a beautifully paced story that begins with the childhood of a very talented American-born classical guitarist, Gianni, who through tragic reversals comes to be raised by his grandmother first in Italy and then in Germany. Dealing with his pain and his "magnificent gift," Gianni passes through a decade of darkness where he moves away from his classical background and develops into a renowned and versatile guitarist, dazzling the clubs of Milano with his late-night jazz set. Also playing as an acclaimed studio musician, his life nevertheless tumbles ever deeper into the despair of drink, drugs, and affairs.By invitation from an old friend, Gianni travels to Germany and is confronted with the radical faith of a contemporary Christian music group whose life stories read like his. In a highly realistic and dramatic style, Gianni must deal with his doubts about God, his fears, the unforgiveness of those who hurt him most, and ultimately find salvation. There...