Hidden Voices:
The Orphan Musicians of Venice
by Pat Lowery Collins

    HIDDEN VOICES by Pat Lowery Collins
    Category:  Historical
    Age Recommendation:  Grades 9+
    Release Date:  5/12/09
    Publisher:  Candlewick
    Reviewed by:  Sarah Bean the Green Bean Teen Queen
    Rating:  4 Stars


    Eighteenth century composer Vivaldi not only composed beautiful music, but he also worked in an orphanage giving
    young girls a music education.  HIDDEN VOICES is a fictional story based on true events about three girls living in
    the Ospedale dell Pieta.  

    Luisa is known for her voice, but she’s always looking for the mother who abandoned her.  Rosalba is the
    adventurous one who wants a life outside of the Ospedale walls and dreams of romance.  Anetta is the one who
    takes care of everyone and feels especially protective of Luisa.  Together, these girls grow up and help each other
    through the various obstacles life presents them.  

    HIDDEN VOICES is a richly detailed historical novel.  Each chapter is told from a different point of view and Ms.
    Collins excels at giving each girl a unique voice.  Rosalba was my favorite character in the beginning, but Luisa and
    Anetta grew on me too throughout the novel.  All three grow throughout the story and it’s interesting to see how the
    girls help and rely on each other throughout the way.  

    A great novel of friendship, HIDDEN VOICES is an engaging historical read, especially for readers with an interest
    in classical music.