The Sound of Music Story by Tom Santopietro

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The Sound of Music Story by Tom Santopietro (St. Martin’s Press, 2015) is a celebration and explanation of how a story about a “beguiling” novice becoming the stepmother to singing children became (or inspired), as the book claims “the most beloved film of all time.” It takes a true fan of The Sound of Music to be an eager reader of this book, and I am not surprised to find that I must not be alone, since this book covered the history of the real story and the history of the filming for those interested. I loved learning about the real Maria von Trapp, and the story of the actors, filming, directors, and so forth only helped me enjoy the movie all the more!

This year marks the fiftieth anniversary of the release of the movie, so it is an appropriate time for such a book. I was struck by the differences between the true story and the movie story, but I’d heard some of it before when I read about the Von Trapp family previously. (Apparently, I did not review it, as I cannot find it on my blog. I also cannot remember what it was called.) Even more, I enjoyed learning about the beginnings of the Broadway play, the plans for a musical movie, and the actual production of the movie, none of which I had learned about before.

After learning more about the filming, I am even more convinced that this is a movie that endures because of the wonderful collection of talent involved in creating it. Yes, we have catchy show tunes. We have great acting talent and cute kids that steal the show. But even more than that, the directors knew what they were doing. It appears seamless when you view the movie, but the sweeping shots of Austrian foothills, the very long Do-Re-Mi music video, and so forth all show expertise in filming and editing. It is so well done.

Who would have guessed that a musical movie about a singing nun would still be popular, all these years later, in this crazy modern day and age we live in? And yet, endured it has. The Sound of Music is indeed a classic, and the fantastic filming, inspiring story, and superb acting have made it endure. Yeah, yeah, what’s-her-name may try another version, but Julie Andrews’s role in The Sound of Music will always remain a favorite for me!

Is anyone else out there a Sound of Music fan?

Note: I received a digital copy of this book for review consideration.

Reviewed on April 8, 2015

About the author 

Rebecca Reid

Rebecca Reid is a homeschooling, stay-at-home mother seeking to make the journey of life-long learning fun by reading lots of good books. Rebecca Reads provides reviews of children's literature she has enjoyed with her children; nonfiction that enhances understanding of educational philosophies, history and more; and classical literature that Rebecca enjoys reading.

  • I am SUCH a “Sound of Music” fan and this sounds wonderful! The music, the story, all of it has always touched my heart. Of course, I know the movie makers took a lot of creative license. They did the same when making “Finding Neverland” in depicting J. M. Barrie’s story. I hope I find time to read this book. Thanks for sharing, Rebecca 🙂

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