van Lieshout, Maria. Song of a Blackbird. Maria van Lieshout, Illus. First Second, 12/2025. 256pp. Graphic. Trade $25.99. 978-1-2508-6981-4. Paper $17.99. 978-1-2508-6982-1. GRADES 8–Adult. OUTSTANDING.
Using maps, photographs, deceptively simple illustrations, and a connecting image of a blackbird, van Lieshout plunges her readers into a family mystery that travels between 2011 and World War II in Amsterdam. Main character Annick is a teenager who attempts to trace her grandmother’s biological parents in an attempt to help her find life-saving medical care. Accompanied by an artist/poet she meets during her search, Annick uncovers and shares elements of the Holocaust and her family’s story, while learning the ongoing transformative power and obligation of art to change the world. The skillful illustrations support and amplify the story throughout.
Lesley Mandros Bell—Independent