Review: The Yellow Bird Sings by Jennifer Rosner



It never fails to amaze me how a book can be simultaneously horrifying and beautiful. ⁣
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This is a story about Róża and Shira, a Jewish mother and daughter, who have fled their home after the Nazis moved through their village, killing the rest of their family. The book opens with Róża and Shira hiding in the loft of a barn desperately trying to hold completely still and not make any noise. Jennifer Rosner details their life hiding in the barn so well, even I was fearful of making any noise while reading. ⁣
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Shira is 5 years old and a musical prodigy. To help her keep quiet, her mother whispers a story to her about a young girl living in an enchanted garden who must be quiet - but her small yellow bird who is free to sing loudly. Shira expresses her music through this imaginary bird, who she keeps cupped safely in her hands. ⁣
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For a long time, the story is about life in the barn and keeping as quiet and still as possible. In time, as German soldiers are circling closer to their hiding spot, Róża is faced with an impossible choice - take their chances in the barn, or let her child go into hiding in a convent, disguised as a young Catholic girl. ⁣
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This was an incredibly moving, thoughtful and deeply sad novel about the strength of the bond between a mother and daughter, love and sacrifice, burning hope and longing - and the beauty of music in a time of complete despair. There was only one part of this book that I had a slight problem with, if you’ve read it I’d love to chat!! ⁣

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