The Blackbird Girls by Anne Blankman
A beautiful friendship, courage, and resilience set against the backdrop of a historical tragedy. It explores themes of survival and the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The story will stay with the reader long after they close the book.
Review By: Corinne Blair
Published: 2021, Puffin Books
Genre: Middle Grade, Historical Fiction, Family, Russia, Ukraine, Chernobyl, Abuse, 1980s
Audience: 5, 6, 7, 8
Triggers: Violence, Loss, Refugee, Family Separation, Parental Abuse
Goodreads Review: On a spring morning in 1986, neighbors Valentina Kaplan and Oksana Savchenko wake up to an angry red sky. A reactor at the nuclear power plant where their fathers work--Chernobyl--has exploded. Before they know it, the two girls, who've always been enemies, find themselves on a train bound for Leningrad to stay with Valentina's estranged grandmother, Rita Grigorievna. In 1941 Rifka must flee Kiev before the Germans arrive. Her journey is harrowing and fraught with danger because Germans and Russians alike will revile her for her Jewish blood. In both time periods, the girls must learn who to trust and how to have hope in the midst of horrible events.
Review: "I loved this book so much. It is not something I typically would pick as I am usually not a huge fan of historical fiction. However, I STILL find myself thinking about this story often. It is an amazing novel that transports readers to the harrowing yet inspiring events of the Chernobyl disaster. The story is about the lives of two young girls, Valentina and Oksana, who are forced to confront their fears and prejudices amidst a catastrophic event. It also includes a third story about Valentina's grandmother, who
plays a pivotal role in the story.
What stands out in this story is the powerful theme of friendship and resilience. The rich character development allowed me and will allow readers to connect deeply with the protagonists. The story is both gripping and heartfelt, highlighting the strength of the human spirit in overcoming adversity.
I think this story really emphasizes empathy and was a window into a world I can't even imagine. I found myself shaking my head saying I can't believe this! I understand it is historical fiction but knowing stories like this really happened is powerful. I just loved the relationships and love between the characters. While it didn't wrap things up tightly in a little bow like I prefer, it left me with a sense of peace I was hoping it would. I HIGHLY recommend this and will be using this as a first chapter Friday in my own classroom!"
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