The Black Dog Opera Library is one of the most popular,informative, and budget-friendly ways to enjoy all thegreat operas. Each book in the series includes a historyof the opera, a synopsis of the story, a complete libretto inits original language as well as in English, and dozens ofphotographs and drawings depicting great scenes,singers, performances, and more. Each book alsoincludes an excellent Angel/EMI recording of the entireopera on two CDs, as well as commentary from expertsin the field who guide you through the music as youlisten. All of this for less than twenty dollars!