A novel inspired by true events, “Tasa’s Song” is about a young Jewish violinist caught in the gathering storm of World War II and was inspired by events in author Linda Kass’ mother’s early life. The novel depicts the oppression, first by the Soviets and then by the Germans, of those who lived in eastern Poland during the war.
1943. Tasa Rosinski and five relatives, all Jewish, escape their rural village in eastern Poland—avoiding certain death—and find refuge in a bunker beneath a barn built by their longtime employee.
A decade earlier, 10-year-old Tasa dreams of someday playing her violin like Paganini. To continue her schooling, she leaves her family for a nearby town, joining older cousin Danik at a private Catholic academy where her musical talent flourishes despite escalating political tension. But after war breaks out and the eastern swath of Poland falls under Soviet control, Tasa’s relatives become Communist targets, her new tender relationship is imperiled, and the family’s secure world unravels.
From a peaceful village in eastern Poland to a partitioned post-war Vienna, from a promising childhood to a year living underground, “Tasa’s Song” celebrates the bonds of love, the power of memory, the solace of music, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
“Tasa’s Song” is available at Sundog books in Seaside for $16.95.
About the author:
Linda Kass, a Seaside homeowner, is a writer who worked as a magazine reporter and correspondent for regional and national publications early in her career. In her community, Kass is a strong advocate of education, literacy, and the arts, and is a long distance road cyclist who rides in an annual event to support cancer research. Her past experience as a trustee and board chair of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra fed into much of the music that fills the pages of “Tasa’s Song.” She is at work on a second novel. You can learn more at lindakass.com.
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