76 pages 2 hours read

Steven Galloway

The Cellist of Sarajevo

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2008

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Cellist of Sarajevo by Steven Galloway follows the intertwined lives of four individuals during the Siege of Sarajevo: Kenan, Dragan, Arrow, and the titular cellist. As they navigate their perilous reality, each character copes differently with the war's hardships. The cellist honors those killed in a mortar attack by playing Albinoni's Adagio for 22 days, providing solace and hope to others. Contains depictions of war violence.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Cellist of Sarajevo by Steven Galloway has been praised for its poignant portrayal of humanity amidst the siege of Sarajevo, capturing the emotional depth and resilience of its characters. Critics commend the evocative narrative and reflective prose. Some, however, find the plot slightly predictable and the character development underwhelming. Overall, it’s a moving depiction of war's impact on individuals.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Cellist of Sarajevo?

Readers who appreciate historical fiction, especially set during wartime, would find The Cellist of Sarajevo captivating. Fans of Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner or Markus Zusak's The Book Thief will enjoy its poignant exploration of human resilience, art's power, and life under siege. Its lyrical prose and deep emotional impact appeal to thoughtful and compassionate readers.

RecommendedReading Age

14-18years

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Topics

Military / War

History: World

Music