Song of a Captive Bird
Song of a Captive Bird
Book Brief
416
Novel • Fiction
Iran • 1950s
2018
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Song of a Captive Bird by Jasmin Darznik tells the fictionalized life story of Iranian poet and film director Forough Farrokhzad through her own voice, covering her headstrong childhood, strained marriage, artistic awakening, and ultimate death, inviting readers to reflect on her life's framing and meaning. Sensitive topics include invasive medical procedures, marital strife, and political oppression.
Emotional
Inspirational
Mysterious
Melancholic
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
6,617 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Song of a Captive Bird by Jasmin Darznik is a compelling fictionalized biography of the Iranian poet Forugh Farrokhzad. Reviewers praise its vivid prose, rich historical detail, and strong feminist themes. However, some note that its narrative pace can be slow, and the extensive poetic passages might not appeal to all readers. An engaging yet demanding read.
Who Should Read Song of a Captive Bird?
Readers who enjoy Song of a Captive Bird by Jasmin Darznik are typically captivated by historical fiction centered on strong, resilient female characters. Fans of Khaled Hosseini's A Thousand Splendid Suns and Azar Nafisi's Reading Lolita in Tehran will find this tale of Iranian poet Forugh Farrokhzad compelling and evocative.
6,617 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Song of a Captive Bird is a novel that brings to life the story of Forugh Farrokhzad, one of Iran's most iconic and controversial female poets.
Jasmin Darznik, the author of the novel, is also well-known for her memoir The Good Daughter, which explores themes of family heritage and identity.
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The novel was a New York Times Book Review Editors’ Choice, demonstrating its critical acclaim and recognition in literary circles.
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416
Novel • Fiction
Iran • 1950s
2018
Adult
18+ years
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