The yellow bird’s song is profound and hauntingly beautiful.
The Yellow Bird Sings is Jennifer Rosner’s debut novel, set in Poland during World War II. It is a powerful story of the enduring love between parent and child and the healing power of music. It will leave an imprint long after the last page is turned.
In this profoundly moving fictional story a mother seeks to protect her daughter at all costs, but faces an impossible choice: to keep her daughter, or give her the chance to survive by letting her go. During the German invasion of Poland in 1941, Roza and her daughter, Shira, hide in a wardrobe to escape capture as the Jews in their town are rounded up. Having lost their family and conscious that they cannot remain in the wardrobe, they flee, hiding once more, this time in a farmer’s barn. They must rely on stealth and silence to survive.
Forbidden by her mother from making any sound for fear that they may be found, Shira’s imagination takes flight. Taking inspiration from her mother’s whispered stories, Shira’s yellow bird sings glorious melodies and moves freely where she cannot. Music forms the link between mother and daughter, providing hope and a brief escape from the continuous fear and silence they must endure to survive. But when the day arrives that even silence can no longer keep them safe, Roza must make a heartbreaking choice.
Told from the perspective of Roza (the mother) and Shira (her daughter) in alternating chapters, Rosner adds a depth of detail to the narrative that allows the reader to form a strong connection to the story and characters, whilst maintaining a well-paced storyline.
Rosner uses the yellow bird to wonderful effect throughout this story as a visual representation of Shira’s emotions and exceptional musical ability. There are several short subplots that run throughout the narrative in the interactions that Shira, Roza and her yellow bird have with ancillary characters. Most often these focus around offers of shelter, assistance and hope at various stages of their passage. These well executed subplots enhance the narrative and allow Rosner to explore aspects of conflict, resilience, courage, separation and love in her main characters.
Vivid and graphic descriptions bring to life the harsh realities and horrors of war that were endured by many during World War II. Rosner juxtaposes the dark images she conjures against descriptions of beautiful natural scenery, affirming that even in the depths of despair, there is always hope.
Rosner’s debut is outstanding. A compelling must-read, it will appeal particularly to fans of historical fiction, such as Marcus Zusak’s The Book Thief. However, it would also form a fantastic introduction to those not familiar with the genre.
Reviewed by Daniella Feltrin
Distributed by: Pan Macmillan
Released: February 2020
RRP: $29.99 trade paperback
More News
