A review by melslostinabook
The Song of the Lark by Willa Cather

5.0

This is my third novel by Cather and once again, I’m in awe, completely captivated by her ability to weave a story that fills me with so many different emotions, all at once.

The Song of the Lark follows 11 year old Thea Kronborg, of a Scandinavian-American family in a little railroad town set in Colorado in the late 19th century, on her journey to stardom. She has a talent for music, playing piano and singing in the Methodist church where her father is minister, and recognizing her talent, her parents send her for music lessons. As she grows up, the book follows her on her journey through different music teachers, culminating in her career as an opera singer.

I really enjoyed this book and meeting all the different characters who shaped Thea’s life. Cather’s focus on other cultures and the struggles they faced as immigrants, felt very timely, given the current climate. Also, the struggles Thea faced and the sacrifices she made to achieve her goals were inspiring, as were her independent mindset and strong work ethic. And of course Cather’s writing is just so lyrical and beautiful. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more of this author’s work.