The Starling's Song

A beautiful symbiosis between word and image, The Starling’s Song is a celebration of language, landscape and an invitation to see the beauty that Nature selflessly gifts us with and how that can help us find a sense of ourselves and our place in the world.

This enchanting book not only delights the eye with Pushkin Children’s signature aesthetic appeal but also offers profound meaning. Translated from the Dutch by Michele Hutchinson, the story comes to life through Wolters’ exquisite black and white linocuts, highlighted by the starling’s vivid yellow beak and feet—the sole bursts of colour in the illustrations. The book immerses readers in the starling’s world, as he embarks on a journey of observation and expression.

Motivated by the innate beauty he discovers, the starling embarks on a musical endeavour to share his profound experiences with others. Along the way, he encounters various bird companions who contribute their own unique perspectives, urging him to include the trees, the night, the water, withering flowers, rocks, life, himself, and the unity of starlings in his song. Each encounter adds depth and wisdom to the starling’s composition, culminating in a magnificent melody that embraces the vastness and interconnectedness of the natural world. This harmonious narrative beautifully inspires readers to appreciate the wonders surrounding them.

The author skilfully employs repetition, both in encounters and phrases, infusing the story with a rhythmic flow that reinforces the sense of interconnectedness and unity. The recurring phrase, “Don’t forget to sing about,” lends a musical quality to the text, echoing the starling’s own song. Beneath the surface of each bird’s observations lies a profound message, inviting readers to delve deeper into philosophical reflections on our place in the world. The symbolism of trees as bridges between earth and sky and rocks as the earth’s secret code is thought-provoking and encourages readers to engage in meaningful contemplation.

Recipient of the prestigious Dutch Silver Paintbrush Award and a strong contender for other accolades, The Starling’s Song is a beautifully crafted masterpiece. Its philosophical reflections on our connection with the natural world have the power to inspire readers of all ages. By blending captivating storytelling with introspective themes, this book resonates deeply, reminding us of our individuality while emphasizing our interdependence. It is an invitation to reflect on our place in the world, wrapped in a gentle narrative that will leave a lasting impression.