The Cellist of Sarajevo

Inspired by the Sarajevo musician who, risking sniper fire, played his cello for 22 afternoons in honor of the 22 killed while standing in a breadline, this slim but powerful novel explores aspects of war not often addressed. Scenes of sorrow and danger, sacrifice and compromise make this a novel I will never forget.

Twenty-two people are killed in a mortar attack during the siege of Sarajevo. In response, a cellist decides to play at the site of the attack for 22 days. The Cellist of Sarajevo celebrates small acts of courage by ordinary people as they struggle to survive under dangerous circumstances.

Focusing on three concisely developed, unrelated characters and an unnamed cellist who has vowed to play for 22 days in memory of 22 people who have died in a mortar attack on war-torn Sarajevo, Galloway creates individual portraits that combine in a stunning picture of what it takes to survive in a city under siege. Spare narration and haunting voice make this a must-read.