FirstSecond
Fictionalized but based on true events, Song of a Blackbird has two intertwined timelines: one is a modern-day family drama, the other a thrilling tale of a WWII-era bank heist carried out by Dutch resistance fighters. Maria van Lieshout weaves a tale about family, courage, and the power of art. Deeply personal yet universal, Song of a Blackbird sheds light on an untold WWII story and sends a powerful message about compassion and resistance.
- Michael L. Printz Award Honor
- National Book Award Longlist
- Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators Golden Kite Award (x2)
- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books Blue Ribbon Award
- Junior Library Guild Gold Standard
- Publisher's Weekly Best Young Adult Books
- Kirkus Best Young Adult Books
- The Horn Book Fanfare Best Fiction
- School Library Journal Best Graphic Novels
- Chicago Public Library Best Teen Graphic Novels
- The Children's Book Review Best YA Books
- International Literacy Association Notable Book for a Global Society
- Common Sense Media Teen Selection
Accessible, haunting, and immaculately researched, this work will claim its place beside graphic novel classics such as Art Spiegelman's Maus and Marjane Satrapi's Persepolis."
— Kirkus Reviews, starred review
— Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Touching and tender...a powerful testament to art and its ability to foster change and connection."
— Publishers Weekly, starred review
— Publishers Weekly, starred review
Touching, gripping, and heartbreaking..."
— School Library Journal, starred review
— School Library Journal, starred review
The power of art to inspire hope and resistance is embodied...deeply compelling."
— Booklist, starred review
— Booklist, starred review
Deeply personal and poetic..."
— The Horn Book, starred review
— The Horn Book, starred review
Ms. Van Lieshout's novel celebrates the incredible bravery of everyday people living under impossible circumstances..."
— Wall Street Journal
— Wall Street Journal
This is essential, illuminating reading."
— R. J. Palacio, #1 New York Times bestselling author
— R. J. Palacio, #1 New York Times bestselling author
A visually stunning dive into history, family, and the awesome power of art."
— Steve Sheinkin, National Book Award finalist, Newbery Honor Recipient.
— Steve Sheinkin, National Book Award finalist, Newbery Honor Recipient.



















