George Rabasa

QUESTIONS FROM READERS

George Rabasa answers readers' questions about the amount of research he did in preparation for THE WONDER SINGER, the inspiration behind his main character, and suggested operas to enhance the reading experience.

Terri from Saint Charles, MO: Was this story based on a real person? Mercè Casals seemed so real.

George Rabasa: Terri, Mercè seems real because she is a true and consistent character. She is drawn from life, though not from one specific person. I thought of some of the legendary divas of history, such as Maria Callas, and also drew on some of the magnificent women in my family. The result is a vivid character in which every detail contributes to her fully rounded personality.

Tamara from Grass Valley, CA: How much time did you spend researching for THE WONDER SINGER?

George Rabasa: Tamara, I don't separate the research phase from the writing process. I worked on THE WONDER SINGER for about 10 years, and during all that time, I read and learned about opera singing and the Spanish Civil War. I was putting in new interesting information into the novel up until the time I submitted the final draft. I love learning stuff, and as I'm writing a new book, I'm reading and interviewing and traveling. Sometimes, I make things up during an early draft, and then go back and check my facts later to make sure things ring true.

Pat from Manalapan, NJ: Do you hold phone interviews with book clubs? Is there a list of suggested opera recordings to go along with the book?

George Rabasa: Pat, yes, I've enjoyed conversing with book clubs through phone conferences! It's a great way to meet readers and hear their thoughts. If you are interested in scheduling a phone chat, please write caitlin@unbridledbooks.com.

There is an iTunes playlist called “The Wonder Singer,” which has definitive versions of some famous arias sung by the most beautiful voices in the world.