Catching Mozart by Benjamin Laskin

A common-man adventure of epic proportions, Catching Mozart by Benjamin Laskin is an accessible slice of unusual prose that dances between philosophy, comedy, magical realism, and more.

JC, Manny, and Larry can only see dollar signs when their landscaping company snags a recurring gig in a fancy part of town, and while the yards on the block seem cursed when it comes to greenery, they’re eager for the challenge. The ancient old man at the end of the block and ominous warnings from nosy neighborhood kids set the stage for a bizarre tale of brotherhood, unexpected romance, desert mysteries, and the endless power of music, particularly when it emanates from Wolfgang Amadeus.

Underpinned with a symphony of symbolism, and composed with clever care, this opera-fueled drama is neatly edited, boasting quick and organic dialogue, as well as splashes of visceral descriptions. With storytelling echoes of both Pynchon and Vonnegut, Laskin excels at subtly building tension, even in the most seemingly simple scenes, drawing readers deeper into this unpredictable plot.

Exhibiting a clear passion for music, a trained ear for authentic relationships, and a gift for crafting eccentric stories that feel touched by magic, Laskin delivers a novel that’s both nuanced and outrageous, and wholly original.

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