The Willow Still Sings: A Story of Grace, Forgiveness, and the Strength of a Mother's Love

by Sarah Schwerin

262 pages, Paperback

Published April 1, 2026

Reviews

[Book Lover]

This was such a heartfelt and beautifully emotional story. Florence’s love for her family really stayed with me, especially as she tries to keep everything together while facing the fear and uncertainty surrounding her daughter’s illness. I loved how the story shows that strength doesn’t always come through dramatic moments. Sometimes it’s found in a familiar recipe, a kind neighbor, a quiet prayer, or simply refusing to give up on the people you love. The historical setting adds another layer to the story without taking away from its very human emotions. I’d definitely recommend this to readers who enjoy historical fiction filled with family, resilience, forgiveness, and hope.

[Jennifer Hallmark]

I absolutely loved The Willow Still Sings by Sarah Schwerin. Her writing is phenomenal, and the story resonated so much with my mother's heart. I'm blown away by such depth and range of emotions. The struggles the family endures are so realistic, and there are times of sorrow and joy. Florence's life-changing journey will have you turning pages far into the night while keeping your box of tissues close by. I can't wait to read more of her books...

[Susan Sloan]

Sarah Schwerin's debut novel delves into the early 1950's and the era of rampant polio infections. When one couple's daughter contracts the disease, their family fragments, with each parent pulling in a different direction. Just when things start looking up, something else pushes the couple apart. They alternately blame the other and then themselves for its failure. Only God can restore their marriage, but they must stop their struggle and turn to Him.

[Katherine Pasour]

A mother faces the harsh reality of polio as her young daughter fights for recovery during the 1950s epidemic. Fighting the stigma of quarantine, her crushing guilt, and her husband’s apparent indifference to the crisis, Florence struggles to find hope. Strong, yet vulnerable, Florence fights fear, doubt, and hopelessness with stubborn perseverance. A mother’s love finds strength and determination even when a small step is a giant challenge.

[Elizabeth]

This is the beautiful story of how God worked in the midst of tragedy and heartache to bring healing and redemption to a family during the polio epidemic. You will be drawn to Mildred, Henry, Florence, and Howard, and find some semblance of yourself in each of them. The setting draws us into the “polio years” and the struggles faced by those touched by the dreaded disease. I know you’ll enjoy this wonderful book.

[Lora Avery]

Captivating!

Sarah Schwerin weaves a beautiful story intertwining unique, engaging circumstances with the relatable things we all experience in our life's journey: joys, disappointments, pain, and decisions. She exposes the longings, fears, and hopes of the human heart and our journey through life with a patient, merciful God leading us to truth and His love.

Highly recommend!