In this thoughtfully written memoir, acclaimed classical pianist Jeremy Denk narrates his adolescent passion for music, his fumbling attempts at first love, and the struggles of living in a fracturing family. Though self-aware about his youthful pretensions, Denk portrays the isolating experience of having an obsession that others don’t share. His urgency to awaken interest in the music of the great composers animates the narrative, leading to chapters in which he explains melody, harmony, and rhythm with the enthusiasm and simplicity of a skilled teacher. A book for anyone who loves classical music or wants to love classical music, Every Good Boy Does Fine is suffused with curiosity and a childlike joy in learning.

(BH)