76 pages • 2 hours read
Steven GallowayThe Cellist of Sarajevo
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2008A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
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
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 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.