#blogbookaday: Flowers for Sarajevo

Summary:  “The moving story of a young boy who discovers the power of beauty and kindness during a time of war. Drasko helps his father sell flowers in Sarajevo, but when war threatens and his father is called to the battlefront, Drasko must take over the flower stall. One morning the boys familiar routine is shattered when a mortar shell hits the bakery, killing twenty-two people. The next day, a cellist from the Sarajevo Opera Orchestra goes to the crater and plays the most beautiful music that Drasko can imagine. Inspired, he looks for ways to ease the sorrow of those around him. ” (Taken from Goodreads)

Review: This is a beautiful story of kindness in the face of constant danger. This would be a great story to share with elementary school age children about how small acts of kindness can truly change your community, even in the worst of times. I really liked that the stress was put on how different the residents of Sarajevo were and yet could still come together in the same market to buy and sell their wares. In today’s world where differences are being noticed, but not in the best way – this book is an important one to share.

Personal Reaction: I found this story, touching and moving and a great reminder of how even the most basic things can improve your community in the most trying times. I found the back matter to this story most interesting as it’s based on a true story about a cellist who played in Sarajevo for 22 days after a mortar shell explosion and the author wrote a song titled, “The Streets of Sarajevo” and was able to get the cellist to play the music for the song. If you get a chance to borrow this story from the library or purchase it, make sure you get the accompanying CD.

Title: Flowers for Sarajevo
Author: John McCutcheon
Illustrator: Kristy Caldwell
Publisher: Peachtree Publishers
Publication Date: April 1, 2017

This is a new idea I’m trying on my blog this year that was inspired by @donalynbooks and @heisereads – to provide a brief review of a picture book every day of 2018. You’ll get a brief summary of the story, a review of the content, illustrations and theme, my personal reaction to the book and all the pertinent publication information! Enjoy!