Twelve international scholars contribute 14 essays on Czech composer Bohuslav Martinu (1890-1959), one of the most prolific composers of the 20th century. The text is dedicated to the memory of British author Michael Henderson (1947- 1994), who was in the process of writing a biography of Martinu at the time of his death. Coverage includes the varying critical reception of Martinu's work, Martinu's mysterious fall from a balcony and its effect on the last decade of his life, Martinu's relationship with Czech composer Viezslava Kapralova, the composer's often difficult relationship with the Czech government, Martinu and the American critics, and analyses of some of Martinu's specific works. The book does not include a discography. Annotation ©2007 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)