'Sholl’s critical biography is enhanced by his skillful use of musical, theological, philosophical and aesthetic details regarding Messiaen’s life and work, and further enriched by the inclusion of previously unexplored material from Messiaen’s archives. After situating the composer in the cultural milieu of the 1930s, Sholl dedicates chapters to essential elements of Messiaen’s multifarious career as composer, teacher, theologian and ornithologist. Writing with clarity and insight, Sholl has provided a readable and engaging contribution to understanding the complicated life and work of one of the twentieth century’s most important figures. Highly recommended.'
– Andrew Shenton, professor of music, Boston University

'Sholl's new biography of Messiaen sheds fresh light on the extraordinary originality of his music. Among the wealth of fascinating detail much comes from the composer himself, as well as from his teachers, contemporaries, pupils, and from those who have studied, researched, and performed his music. Sholl's commentaries on the music are acutely perceptive — and as a bonus to this rich feast the photographs are marvellous.'
– Peter Hill, emeritus professor of music, University of Sheffield, and coauthor of Olivier Messiaen: Oiseaux exotiques