DISCLAIMER: A Song of Silence was provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review.

Summary

War thrust them together. Love will tear them apart.

Inspired by a true story…

When the Nazis invade a sleepy Polish town in 1939, Mirek Kozlowski swears to keep everyone in his orphanage safe at all costs. However, despite his struggles and sacrifices, the war drags him and his children deeper and deeper into its violent nightmare.

With 89 children looking to him for hope, Mirek must do whatever it takes to protect them — no matter how criminal, distasteful, or perilous it may be.

And just when he thinks things can’t get any worse, the arrival of a sadistic SS captain brings unspeakable atrocities to his town — and surprisingly, a glimmer of hope for Mirek to save all those he cares about if only he has the courage to grasp it…

A story of love, bravery, and compassion, A Song of Silence explores history’s darkest hour and how, even in the face of overwhelming evil, one man can become a dazzling beacon of light.

Review

A Song of Silence is as tragic a tale as it is inspiring and shows that there are still small pockets of light to be found during the darkest times.

Mirek Kozlowski is a beacon of light for so many during such bleakness. He’s in constant distress trying to figure out the best ways to keep his charges safe amongst such horror. Mirek is torn between a rock and a hard place no matter the decision he’s faced with. Above all, he is smart and resourceful. Their home is overcrowded with displaced Jews and those who already lived in the orphanage before the invasion of the town. It was incredible to read as he found new ways to help those in his care. He is a safe haven for all the children in his care and it’s shown throughout the book that the love is reciprocated.

The introduction of the Nazis into the town solidified the fates of all those living in the town. There are so many torturous and sickening times that play out that leave you reeling. You always expect the evil to seep in during these books and the brutality is the reality of that period. However, it doesn’t make it any easier to read. This is not a suitable read for those wanting to avoid themes of death, violence, and gore. The trigger warnings list is long, so I urge you to approach reading this cautiously.

It took me a while longer than usual to finish this book, but this is far from a negative. It is agonising to read as the story develops. The pain, devastation, and loss the characters feel are difficult to stomach. Overall, it is a raw, thought-provoking, and uncomfortable read with those much-needed pockets of light, hope, and humanity present throughout.