This review was submitted by one of our talented teen virtual volunteers.
The Cellist of Sarajevo is a tale of four people as they attempt to live their lives through the Siege of Sarajevo. The novel consists of the Cellist who vows to play Albinoni’s Adagio for 22 days straight; Arrow who is a gifted sniper for a militia in Sarajevo; Kenan, a father who attempts to get water for his family; and Dragan, who makes a journey to his work as a bakery worker.
The civilians and military personnel alike experience the devastating change to Sarajevo. They express their desire to live and love in the place they once knew is gone. However, not all hope is lost. Through the gaining of courage and the power of music, each character is able to push through.
The book is simple and details the humanity people lose and experience during a war. The characters' introspection gives you a view of war you have never seen before. You are truly able to experience the desire and devastation of these characters. You end up wishing the best for them. Through their struggles, you come to question ideas of art, culture, and morality even in modern times as war has yet to cease.
It truly is an inspiring and thought-provoking book for those who are interested in fiction or war stories. Author Steven Galloway is able intertwine these characters' stories into a beautifully wounding piece.
-Sarai
