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Whale Song
Thirteen years ago, Sarah Richardson’s life was shattered after the tragic death of her mother. The shocking event left a grief-stricken teen-aged Sarah with partial amnesia.
Some things are easier to forget.
But now a familiar voice from her childhood sends Sarah, a talented mid-twenties ad exec, back to her past. A past that she had thought was long buried.
Some things are meant to be buried.
Torn by nightmares and visions of a yellow-eyed wolf and aided by creatures of the Earth and killer whales that call to her in the night, Sarah must face her fears and recover her memories―even if it destroys her.
Some things are meant to be remembered―at all cost.
INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER
"Moving...perennially crowd-pleasing combination of sweet and sad...Tardif, already a big hit in Canada...a name to reckon with south of the border." --BOOKLIST
"Whale Song is deep and true, a compelling story of love and family and the mysteries of the human heart. Cheryl Kaye Tardif has written a beautiful, haunting novel." -- NY Times Bestselling novelist Luanne Rice, author of Beach Girls
"Cheryl Kaye Tardif's novel, Whale Song, would be a tough act to follow for any written genre." --Fresh Fiction
"Tardif again leaves a lasting mark on her readers...Moving and irresistible." --Midwest Book Review
"Whale Song is reminiscent of Ring of Endless Light by M. L'Engle, and Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd." --Carol D. O'Dell, author of Mothering Mother
Some things are easier to forget.
But now a familiar voice from her childhood sends Sarah, a talented mid-twenties ad exec, back to her past. A past that she had thought was long buried.
Some things are meant to be buried.
Torn by nightmares and visions of a yellow-eyed wolf and aided by creatures of the Earth and killer whales that call to her in the night, Sarah must face her fears and recover her memories―even if it destroys her.
Some things are meant to be remembered―at all cost.
INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER
"Moving...perennially crowd-pleasing combination of sweet and sad...Tardif, already a big hit in Canada...a name to reckon with south of the border." --BOOKLIST
"Whale Song is deep and true, a compelling story of love and family and the mysteries of the human heart. Cheryl Kaye Tardif has written a beautiful, haunting novel." -- NY Times Bestselling novelist Luanne Rice, author of Beach Girls
"Cheryl Kaye Tardif's novel, Whale Song, would be a tough act to follow for any written genre." --Fresh Fiction
"Tardif again leaves a lasting mark on her readers...Moving and irresistible." --Midwest Book Review
"Whale Song is reminiscent of Ring of Endless Light by M. L'Engle, and Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd." --Carol D. O'Dell, author of Mothering Mother
208 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 14, 2003
59 people are currently reading
1044 people want to read
About the author
Cheryl Kaye Tardif
29 books385 followershttp://www.cherylktardif.com
http://www.whalesongbook.com
http://www.cherylktardif.blogspot.com
Contact Cheryl: cherylktardif at shaw.ca
I am an avid reader and an international bestselling suspense author. My novels are often cross-genre works that fall into the categories of suspense, mystery or thriller.
My books have been compared to works by Stephen King, Jodi Picoult, Sue Monk Kidd, J.D. Robb, Kay Hooper, James Patterson, Dan Brown, and Michael Crichton.
I am always asked that one question: "Cheryl, what do you do?"
My reply: "I kill people off for a living." ;) CKT
http://www.whalesongbook.com
http://www.cherylktardif.blogspot.com
Contact Cheryl: cherylktardif at shaw.ca
I am an avid reader and an international bestselling suspense author. My novels are often cross-genre works that fall into the categories of suspense, mystery or thriller.
My books have been compared to works by Stephen King, Jodi Picoult, Sue Monk Kidd, J.D. Robb, Kay Hooper, James Patterson, Dan Brown, and Michael Crichton.
I am always asked that one question: "Cheryl, what do you do?"
My reply: "I kill people off for a living." ;) CKT
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
November 22, 2007
I just finished Cheryl Kaye Tardif's book, Whale Song. What a wonderful, wonderful story. It read smoothly and the progression of events was well done. As in much of literature, a good book takes you to a place you know nothing about with characters that you come to know as friends, and by the time you're finished you feel as though you have moved in. That's how Whale Song is. It's a book that makes it possible for you to move in and set down roots.
August 15, 2011
I really WANTED to love this book... I tried really hard! But, considering how fascinated I am by most of the subject matter in this book--oceanic research, Native American lore, orcas/marine life, etc--I was somewhat disappointed. It's a quick read, started and finished in one evening, so at least it didn't take up too much of my time. It's not that it was awful, I just felt that the description could have been a lot better. The setting alone, an island off the coast of Canada, should have allowed the author to generate beautiful descriptive language, but I failed to see much of this. Also, at times the book seemed poorly tied together and a bit....well....all over the place. All in all, not a wasted evening entirely, but certainly not overly rewarding either. The subject matter just wasn't developed enough, nor were the characters or situations.
April 22, 2013
I don't know how to do justice to this book in a review. It's like trying to describe love or any other emotion--you have to experience it to really understand. And Whale Song is quite an experience!
The story seems straightforward, moving along in a way that constantly keeps your attention. But underneath are layers of complex feelings and meaning, and they will stir your heart in a big way. Have Kleenex handy! I went through a whole box while reading this. And not because it was sad--although there is definitely sadness in it--but because it is so beautifully written. It makes you think. I let go of a burden of bitterness I was holding inside myself, because of the wisdom I found in Whale Song. How many books can you actually say made you a better person and changed your life?
Every single voice in the narrative is completely authentic. From the young girl who tells the story to the wise old Indian woman called Nana, the characters are living, breathing people you wish you could meet. And the sense of place is so real that you can actually see the ocean and hear the songs of the whales.
There is fascinating Indian lore and legend, and a deep vein of spirituality running throughout the book. It's a tale of heartbreak and happiness, of shutting yourself in and letting yourself go free. After you dry your tears, the message you take away will be one of hope and strength. Cheryl Tardif definitely understands the human soul. And we are lucky that she has the words to tell us about it.
The story seems straightforward, moving along in a way that constantly keeps your attention. But underneath are layers of complex feelings and meaning, and they will stir your heart in a big way. Have Kleenex handy! I went through a whole box while reading this. And not because it was sad--although there is definitely sadness in it--but because it is so beautifully written. It makes you think. I let go of a burden of bitterness I was holding inside myself, because of the wisdom I found in Whale Song. How many books can you actually say made you a better person and changed your life?
Every single voice in the narrative is completely authentic. From the young girl who tells the story to the wise old Indian woman called Nana, the characters are living, breathing people you wish you could meet. And the sense of place is so real that you can actually see the ocean and hear the songs of the whales.
There is fascinating Indian lore and legend, and a deep vein of spirituality running throughout the book. It's a tale of heartbreak and happiness, of shutting yourself in and letting yourself go free. After you dry your tears, the message you take away will be one of hope and strength. Cheryl Tardif definitely understands the human soul. And we are lucky that she has the words to tell us about it.
September 5, 2012
The side stories of this book are what makes it memorable to me: tales of bullying and abuse, friendships fading and gained. When the book was just about Sarah's life, I liked it. But once it became about her mother's death, I became bored. While the twist was interesting, if predictable, so many cliches and severe misunderstandings and unlikely coincidences had to come together for the conclusions. I really disliked when ten years passed in basically a short and blunt summary form when the book before had been so detailed about events and Sarah's thoughts. I can only hope that majors sections here were cut for the school edition, which is the one I read.
July 5, 2010
Anyone who has heard the haunting sound of a whale's song will never forget it. So it is with this story, mystical, honest, haunting and wonderful. So emotional in fact, that I am writing this review while my eyes are still damp with tears. Tears of joy, tears of sorrow, and a great feeling of enlightenment and belonging. The rich blend of lifestyles from the prairies of Wyoming to Vancouver Island's rugged west coast in British Columbia, both very remote, brings together a family who have never seen an ocean to the very shores in their new home, and a traditional indian family whose roots go back many hundreds of years. The area around Bamfield is largely populated by the
Huu-ay-aht
Tribe and the warmth of the people represented in this novel is passed on to us in a way that feels personal.
Cheryl Kaye Tardif
, you moved me. I read this straight through without setting it down once.
The story begins with Sarah, an eleven year old girl, learning that her marine-biologist father has been offered an opportunity he can't refuse, nor wants to, to live and work near Bamfield for a couple of years. His artist wife, well-known for her paintings of the plains will have the opportunity to paint different scenes in their new home. Sarah of course does not want to move, her best friend is here in Wyoming. However, at eleven one has little in the way of choices. But Sarah has no idea how much her new home will change her life. Though well-populated with many full-fledged characters, this is really Sarah's story.
If I take nothing more away with me from reading this book, these three alone were worth the read: live life fully; "forgiveness will set you free"; know when to let go. Of course I loved many things about this book, and it deals with many subjects that afflict peoples lives today. [On a personal note, I mean no disrespect when I refer to our native people as indian. As a Chief once told my husband when he asked what he wanted him to call him, he said to call him an indian, the government made him an indian when they created the legislation in the 1800s, and they call themselves indian because why should they keep changing names, because someone tells them to?:]*
Very soon after arriving at their new rural home, Sarah meets Goldie, her neighbor who is indian and also eleven. They become the best of friends and very soon both families become as close as non-family can be. Goldie's grandmother Nana, regales the girls with many legends, and yet it seems that she is tapping into something that Sarah is thinking or troubled about. I know, you are wondering about the whales. Sarah had been warned by her parents never to swim past the float because a young boy had tried to swim to the nearby island the year before and drowned. Sarah soon hears from Goldie that she believes her brother is now an Orca (Killer Whale) and swims nearby so she can talk to him. Nana narrates the legend to the girls later and Sarah then understands what Goldie was talking about. Sarah's mother and Nana have also become good friends, and incorporating something of the legends in her newer paintings have given her even more notice for the mystic quality they present.
When school starts, the girls find they are in the same classroom, and sit next to each other. But trouble brews for Sarah in a case of racism and bullying all through the first year. All is not terror for her though, as she becomes popular among her classmates and has also caught the eye of a popular young boy Adam, causing her to giggle and blush every time he looks at her. Goldie tells her he is part Haida, part white. A field trip on the boat Sarah's father does his research on brings a great windup to the school year. They are all mesmerized by the sounds of both fish and whales after Sarah's father drops the echolocation microphone into the water and turns the volume up so all can hear. Adam in particular looks toward his future as he learns as much as he can from Sarah's father.
The book takes place over approximately 13-14 years and there is so much to tell, but I will not plant spoilers. I have left a large part of the book undiscussed. Let me just say that this is one book I am thrilled to have had the opportunity not only to read, but to feel. It is as though I was dropped into the mind of Sarah and existing within these pages myself, feeling every emotion. Cheryl Kaye Tardif, you are an inspiration! The version I am reviewing is an ebook, and is more recent than the original printed book (I chose the pdf file and printed it because I don't have a reader). This book should be read by everyone, perhaps a little too sad in places for young children but definitely for 12+ because some of the lessons learned, almost by absorption, are particularly applicable to that age group. For the rest of us, we are never too old to learn something new, and sometimes you can go home again.*
*This review is written by a Canadian reader, reference to legislation is Canadian
The story begins with Sarah, an eleven year old girl, learning that her marine-biologist father has been offered an opportunity he can't refuse, nor wants to, to live and work near Bamfield for a couple of years. His artist wife, well-known for her paintings of the plains will have the opportunity to paint different scenes in their new home. Sarah of course does not want to move, her best friend is here in Wyoming. However, at eleven one has little in the way of choices. But Sarah has no idea how much her new home will change her life. Though well-populated with many full-fledged characters, this is really Sarah's story.
If I take nothing more away with me from reading this book, these three alone were worth the read: live life fully; "forgiveness will set you free"; know when to let go. Of course I loved many things about this book, and it deals with many subjects that afflict peoples lives today. [On a personal note, I mean no disrespect when I refer to our native people as indian. As a Chief once told my husband when he asked what he wanted him to call him, he said to call him an indian, the government made him an indian when they created the legislation in the 1800s, and they call themselves indian because why should they keep changing names, because someone tells them to?:]*
Very soon after arriving at their new rural home, Sarah meets Goldie, her neighbor who is indian and also eleven. They become the best of friends and very soon both families become as close as non-family can be. Goldie's grandmother Nana, regales the girls with many legends, and yet it seems that she is tapping into something that Sarah is thinking or troubled about. I know, you are wondering about the whales. Sarah had been warned by her parents never to swim past the float because a young boy had tried to swim to the nearby island the year before and drowned. Sarah soon hears from Goldie that she believes her brother is now an Orca (Killer Whale) and swims nearby so she can talk to him. Nana narrates the legend to the girls later and Sarah then understands what Goldie was talking about. Sarah's mother and Nana have also become good friends, and incorporating something of the legends in her newer paintings have given her even more notice for the mystic quality they present.
When school starts, the girls find they are in the same classroom, and sit next to each other. But trouble brews for Sarah in a case of racism and bullying all through the first year. All is not terror for her though, as she becomes popular among her classmates and has also caught the eye of a popular young boy Adam, causing her to giggle and blush every time he looks at her. Goldie tells her he is part Haida, part white. A field trip on the boat Sarah's father does his research on brings a great windup to the school year. They are all mesmerized by the sounds of both fish and whales after Sarah's father drops the echolocation microphone into the water and turns the volume up so all can hear. Adam in particular looks toward his future as he learns as much as he can from Sarah's father.
The book takes place over approximately 13-14 years and there is so much to tell, but I will not plant spoilers. I have left a large part of the book undiscussed. Let me just say that this is one book I am thrilled to have had the opportunity not only to read, but to feel. It is as though I was dropped into the mind of Sarah and existing within these pages myself, feeling every emotion. Cheryl Kaye Tardif, you are an inspiration! The version I am reviewing is an ebook, and is more recent than the original printed book (I chose the pdf file and printed it because I don't have a reader). This book should be read by everyone, perhaps a little too sad in places for young children but definitely for 12+ because some of the lessons learned, almost by absorption, are particularly applicable to that age group. For the rest of us, we are never too old to learn something new, and sometimes you can go home again.*
*This review is written by a Canadian reader, reference to legislation is Canadian
December 12, 2007
Review by Tracee Gleichner
"I once feared death. It is said that death begins with the absence of life. And life begins when death is no longer feared. I have stared death in the eye and survived." So begins Whale Song by Cheryl Kaye Tardif.
11 year old Sarah Richardson is uprooted from her home on a ranch in Wyoming and forced to leave behind her best friend, some of her favorite possessions, and all of the memories of her childhood. Her father has accepted a job in Bamfield, Canada where he will be given the opportunity of a lifetime - the chance to study Killer Whales and how they communicate and bond with each other.
Sarah is pretty despondent at first but rebounds quickly after meeting Goldie, her Native American neighbor and soon to be new best friend. Sarah loves to spend time with Goldie, and her family, especially Nana, Goldie's Grandmother. She teaches Sarah all about the beliefs of their tribe and even gives her an Indian name - Hai Nai Yu which means "The Wise One of the One Who Knows".
The families become quick friends and things seem to be going fine. Poor Sarah's world will soon be turned upside-down when she encounters racism, an illness that hits close to home, and a loss so devastating it is uncertain she will ever recover.
Being a mom of a little girl with heart problems, it was very easy for me to relate to the sense of despair these characters felt when an "illness" is presented and you have no control. You must put your faith in the doctors and hope that their knowledge and abilities will be enough to give your loved one the best possible care, and chance to live a long healthy life.
But the part of the story that fascinated me the most was the Native American background. I am blessed to have a very special friend who is 1/2 Onieda Indian. She has given my two girls Indian names and I love to talk with her to hear the stories that have been passed down for centuries by her ancestors. The way that nature is such an integral part of their lives is truly fascinating, and is something that all of us should take to heart.
This book is sure to strike a chord with readers, and could possibly spark some heated discussions...I won't go into more details here, you'll just have to read it to find out what I am speaking of.
For more information on the author please visit:
www.cherylktardif.com
http://cherylktardif.blogspot.com
For those of you that don't know, the author lost her brother Jason to a brutal murder (my sincerest regrets). What advice can you give people, if any, to help them get through a loss of this magnitude?
When you lose a loved one in something so pointless and violent as murder, it changes your life. Sometimes for the worst. It can make you fearful, afraid to leave your own home, afraid for your children, afraid to even live. Or it can change your life for the better, and give you a deeper sense of purpose. The choice is yours. Completely. We chose our responses and by accepting them, we make them our own. At first, I chose fear. I didn't leave my house for a week or so. Then I realized that was not how I wanted to live. That wasn't how my brother Jason would want me to live either. So I chose to make his death count for something more. By creating a memorial site at www.jaysporchmonkeys.com, I began to heal. After getting to know some of the organizations he dealt with and some of his friends, I healed even more. Then I decided to give back to these nonprofits by contributing a percentage of my royalties from Whale Song. Every time you buy Whale Song you are helping people in need. For those who have lost a loved one, I invite you to find a cause and donate time or money to it in memory of your loved one. And if you're looking for a cause, please check out my new project. There are teens who need your help now.
"I once feared death. It is said that death begins with the absence of life. And life begins when death is no longer feared. I have stared death in the eye and survived." So begins Whale Song by Cheryl Kaye Tardif.
11 year old Sarah Richardson is uprooted from her home on a ranch in Wyoming and forced to leave behind her best friend, some of her favorite possessions, and all of the memories of her childhood. Her father has accepted a job in Bamfield, Canada where he will be given the opportunity of a lifetime - the chance to study Killer Whales and how they communicate and bond with each other.
Sarah is pretty despondent at first but rebounds quickly after meeting Goldie, her Native American neighbor and soon to be new best friend. Sarah loves to spend time with Goldie, and her family, especially Nana, Goldie's Grandmother. She teaches Sarah all about the beliefs of their tribe and even gives her an Indian name - Hai Nai Yu which means "The Wise One of the One Who Knows".
The families become quick friends and things seem to be going fine. Poor Sarah's world will soon be turned upside-down when she encounters racism, an illness that hits close to home, and a loss so devastating it is uncertain she will ever recover.
Being a mom of a little girl with heart problems, it was very easy for me to relate to the sense of despair these characters felt when an "illness" is presented and you have no control. You must put your faith in the doctors and hope that their knowledge and abilities will be enough to give your loved one the best possible care, and chance to live a long healthy life.
But the part of the story that fascinated me the most was the Native American background. I am blessed to have a very special friend who is 1/2 Onieda Indian. She has given my two girls Indian names and I love to talk with her to hear the stories that have been passed down for centuries by her ancestors. The way that nature is such an integral part of their lives is truly fascinating, and is something that all of us should take to heart.
This book is sure to strike a chord with readers, and could possibly spark some heated discussions...I won't go into more details here, you'll just have to read it to find out what I am speaking of.
For more information on the author please visit:
www.cherylktardif.com
http://cherylktardif.blogspot.com
For those of you that don't know, the author lost her brother Jason to a brutal murder (my sincerest regrets). What advice can you give people, if any, to help them get through a loss of this magnitude?
When you lose a loved one in something so pointless and violent as murder, it changes your life. Sometimes for the worst. It can make you fearful, afraid to leave your own home, afraid for your children, afraid to even live. Or it can change your life for the better, and give you a deeper sense of purpose. The choice is yours. Completely. We chose our responses and by accepting them, we make them our own. At first, I chose fear. I didn't leave my house for a week or so. Then I realized that was not how I wanted to live. That wasn't how my brother Jason would want me to live either. So I chose to make his death count for something more. By creating a memorial site at www.jaysporchmonkeys.com, I began to heal. After getting to know some of the organizations he dealt with and some of his friends, I healed even more. Then I decided to give back to these nonprofits by contributing a percentage of my royalties from Whale Song. Every time you buy Whale Song you are helping people in need. For those who have lost a loved one, I invite you to find a cause and donate time or money to it in memory of your loved one. And if you're looking for a cause, please check out my new project. There are teens who need your help now.
July 26, 2008
A POWERFUL, MOVING FAMILY DRAMA THAT SPANS THE GENERATIONS! BEAUTIFUL WRITING!
The title of this book leaped out at me from its striking cover, but when I started reading, I was captivated by how meaningful the title was to this very moving story. Cheryl Kaye Tardif's words, scenes and characters flowed through the pages so smoothly I almost forgot I was reading. I felt as though I were in Canada with the characters.
This is a story about an eleven-year-old girl, Sarah Richardson, who moves with her family to Vancouver Island, Canada where her father, a biologist, has taken a new job studying killer whales. Sarah makes friends with a neighbor girl, Goldie Dixon, who is a Nootka Indian. Before Sarah moved there, a tragedy occurred in Goldie's family; it involved her older brother, and there is a mysterious tie-in to this novel's title through that occurrence.
Goldie's wise granddmother, Nana, steeped in Indian tradition, plays a major role in Sarah's life, and Goldie's entire family becomes friends with Sarah's family as the story unfolds. When Sarah's mother becomes ill, a boy who has a crush on Sarah gives her a lovely whale figurine which is another tie-in to the title.
What happened in Goldie's family before Sarah came to live there? How does Sarah lose her mother ... and then her father, in uniquely different ways? How does she reclaim them both ...in uniquely different ways? And how does Sarah lose her memory? Why can't she remember the events of the most tragic day in her life? And just how does a whale figure into the plot? Do people who are drowned truly come back as whales, as the Nootkas believe?
That's a long list of questions, I know, but this author answers them with such dexterity, she'll leave you breathless. And, finally, the question that begs to be answered: What IS a Whale Song and how does it help Sarah reclaim her mother?
To get the answers to those questions, you must read this intriguing, exciting book. It will tug at your heart strings, stirring your emotions like no other.
One doesn't simply read a Tardif story, one experiences it! Among the very few authors I've ever said that about is my all-time favorite Pat Conroy. Like him, Cheryl Kaye Tardif has a definite way with words, weaving a touch of magic into them ... reminiscent of Conroy in BEACH MUSIC, my favorite book.
This is not only a coming-of-age story, it's a love story, a mystery and a family drama in one clear, concise package. Though billed as women's fiction or general fiction, this novel will appeal to YA and all generations--just as "Harry Potter" does.
"Whale Song" is a bestseller in Canada and the US. It made both lists on Amazon shortly after it was released. I'm not surprised that a film producer is looking closely at this book. In the front of my copy, Tardif wrote: Dare to Dream, and Dream Big! I certainly hope her Big Dream comes true and this novel becomes a movie!
My only regret is that I didn't discover this author sooner. She has two other novels out, "Divine Intervention" and "The River." But she says she "holds this one close to her heart." Well, it's now close to my heart, too, as I'm sure it will be to yours. I look forward to reading those other two, but I can't wait to read the one she's currently working on; it's a nonfiction story about the tragic murder of her younger brother and his friends, The Porch Monkeys ... a story of the lost, the forgiven.
Reviewed by: Betty Dravis, 2008
author of: The Toonies Invade Silicon Valley
The title of this book leaped out at me from its striking cover, but when I started reading, I was captivated by how meaningful the title was to this very moving story. Cheryl Kaye Tardif's words, scenes and characters flowed through the pages so smoothly I almost forgot I was reading. I felt as though I were in Canada with the characters.
This is a story about an eleven-year-old girl, Sarah Richardson, who moves with her family to Vancouver Island, Canada where her father, a biologist, has taken a new job studying killer whales. Sarah makes friends with a neighbor girl, Goldie Dixon, who is a Nootka Indian. Before Sarah moved there, a tragedy occurred in Goldie's family; it involved her older brother, and there is a mysterious tie-in to this novel's title through that occurrence.
Goldie's wise granddmother, Nana, steeped in Indian tradition, plays a major role in Sarah's life, and Goldie's entire family becomes friends with Sarah's family as the story unfolds. When Sarah's mother becomes ill, a boy who has a crush on Sarah gives her a lovely whale figurine which is another tie-in to the title.
What happened in Goldie's family before Sarah came to live there? How does Sarah lose her mother ... and then her father, in uniquely different ways? How does she reclaim them both ...in uniquely different ways? And how does Sarah lose her memory? Why can't she remember the events of the most tragic day in her life? And just how does a whale figure into the plot? Do people who are drowned truly come back as whales, as the Nootkas believe?
That's a long list of questions, I know, but this author answers them with such dexterity, she'll leave you breathless. And, finally, the question that begs to be answered: What IS a Whale Song and how does it help Sarah reclaim her mother?
To get the answers to those questions, you must read this intriguing, exciting book. It will tug at your heart strings, stirring your emotions like no other.
One doesn't simply read a Tardif story, one experiences it! Among the very few authors I've ever said that about is my all-time favorite Pat Conroy. Like him, Cheryl Kaye Tardif has a definite way with words, weaving a touch of magic into them ... reminiscent of Conroy in BEACH MUSIC, my favorite book.
This is not only a coming-of-age story, it's a love story, a mystery and a family drama in one clear, concise package. Though billed as women's fiction or general fiction, this novel will appeal to YA and all generations--just as "Harry Potter" does.
"Whale Song" is a bestseller in Canada and the US. It made both lists on Amazon shortly after it was released. I'm not surprised that a film producer is looking closely at this book. In the front of my copy, Tardif wrote: Dare to Dream, and Dream Big! I certainly hope her Big Dream comes true and this novel becomes a movie!
My only regret is that I didn't discover this author sooner. She has two other novels out, "Divine Intervention" and "The River." But she says she "holds this one close to her heart." Well, it's now close to my heart, too, as I'm sure it will be to yours. I look forward to reading those other two, but I can't wait to read the one she's currently working on; it's a nonfiction story about the tragic murder of her younger brother and his friends, The Porch Monkeys ... a story of the lost, the forgiven.
Reviewed by: Betty Dravis, 2008
author of: The Toonies Invade Silicon Valley
March 2, 2009
From the talented author Cheryl Kaye Tardif we are given a poignant and haunting tale – a coming-of-age story of a young girl transplanted to an island culture that combined Native mysticism with the beautiful animal world of the whales.
When Sarah Richardson’s family moved from Wyoming to Vancouver Island, she was not happy. Leaving behind a life of familiarity and comfort, including her best friend, she could not imagine ever experiencing joy again. Her parents, however, immerse themselves into their new lives – her mother resumes her art and her father, his marine biology.
But soon enough, she finds herself seamlessly drawn to the island, the ocean, and eventually to a new best friend – Goldie Dixon – and a wise old woman called Nana, who instilled Native Nootka mysticism into her new identity.
Unfortunately, as she begins a new school year, she becomes the victim of racism meted out by another young girl and learns what it’s like to be bullied. In the process, however, she discovers the other girl’s secret abuse by her father, and during a school field trip, when she saves the other girl’s life, they become fast friends.
As life begins to settle into some kind of normalcy, Sarah is happy – she even has experienced her first crush on Adam, a young boy in her class.
But then life takes a tragic turn, as she learns of her mother’s terminal illness. Then in a horrible and devastating moment that dramatically alters all of their lives, something happens in that hospital room; something that Sarah cannot remember – hysterical amnesia, the doctors report. Because her father is the suspect, he is sent to prison for murder…for allegedly turning off his wife’s life support.
Through the horrible aftermath, Sarah clings to Nana’s words: “When wolf walks by her, she will remember.”
What finally emerges, years later, will set them all free.
A story of mystery, drama, Native mysticism and coming-of-age, "Whale Song" was like a magical journey...I couldn't put it down.
When Sarah Richardson’s family moved from Wyoming to Vancouver Island, she was not happy. Leaving behind a life of familiarity and comfort, including her best friend, she could not imagine ever experiencing joy again. Her parents, however, immerse themselves into their new lives – her mother resumes her art and her father, his marine biology.
But soon enough, she finds herself seamlessly drawn to the island, the ocean, and eventually to a new best friend – Goldie Dixon – and a wise old woman called Nana, who instilled Native Nootka mysticism into her new identity.
Unfortunately, as she begins a new school year, she becomes the victim of racism meted out by another young girl and learns what it’s like to be bullied. In the process, however, she discovers the other girl’s secret abuse by her father, and during a school field trip, when she saves the other girl’s life, they become fast friends.
As life begins to settle into some kind of normalcy, Sarah is happy – she even has experienced her first crush on Adam, a young boy in her class.
But then life takes a tragic turn, as she learns of her mother’s terminal illness. Then in a horrible and devastating moment that dramatically alters all of their lives, something happens in that hospital room; something that Sarah cannot remember – hysterical amnesia, the doctors report. Because her father is the suspect, he is sent to prison for murder…for allegedly turning off his wife’s life support.
Through the horrible aftermath, Sarah clings to Nana’s words: “When wolf walks by her, she will remember.”
What finally emerges, years later, will set them all free.
A story of mystery, drama, Native mysticism and coming-of-age, "Whale Song" was like a magical journey...I couldn't put it down.
August 27, 2008
Reviewed by Breanna F. for TeensReadToo.com
11-year-old Sarah and her parents, Daniella (an artist), and Jack (a marine biologist), move to Canada from the States. Sarah is not happy about the move but she starts warming up to the idea when she sees their beautiful new house located right along the beach that has an amazing view. She's even more happy when she meets Goldie. The two quickly become best friends. Sarah loves Goldie's family, especially her grandmother who they call Nana most of the time. Goldie is of Indian descent (along with most of the other people in the town where Sarah is living), so Sarah learns new traditions and tales from the past.
Sarah develops a crush on a boy in her class, Adam. She also gets bullied by a girl named Annie. But for the most part she likes her new home. She especially loves going out on the schooner with her parents and listening to the whales, which are Sarah and her mother's new love.
Not long after being in their new home, Sarah's mom starts having fainting spells. It is discovered that she has a rare condition that is slowly wasting her away. When Sarah finds this out she's devastated. Unfortunately, there's nothing anyone can do for her mother. Her doctors only give her about two to three more years to live, max.
When Daniella eventually ends up in a coma, something happens and she dies. Jack (Sarah's father) is arrested for pulling the plug on the machines that were keeping his wife alive. Sadly, after his long-awaited court date, the jury finds him guilty and he's sentenced to ten years in prison.
Sarah has to go back to the U.S. with her grandparents and leave everything behind once again. She tries to block out all that has happened to her back in Canada, even the good things. But when she's older (in her 20's), someone comes along and opens her floodgates (so to speak), and she once again remembers everything, including how her mother died.
This was an incredibly hard book to write a summary of. So much happens in WHALE SONG that it's hard to cover the basic things in a short summary. Just go read the book and you'll find out how wonderful it is! It's completely heart wrenching because you know all along that Daniella is dying. But the whole book is just amazing.
I seriously never wanted to put it down. Ms. Tardif's use of words is incredible, like when she's talking about the killer whales or describing scenery. They just flow so easily across every page. My heartstrings were being pulled the entire time and I absolutely loved it. If you like these type of books, I seriously recommend getting yourself a copy. You seriously won't be disappointed. And yes, I know I just overused the word seriously -- sorry!
11-year-old Sarah and her parents, Daniella (an artist), and Jack (a marine biologist), move to Canada from the States. Sarah is not happy about the move but she starts warming up to the idea when she sees their beautiful new house located right along the beach that has an amazing view. She's even more happy when she meets Goldie. The two quickly become best friends. Sarah loves Goldie's family, especially her grandmother who they call Nana most of the time. Goldie is of Indian descent (along with most of the other people in the town where Sarah is living), so Sarah learns new traditions and tales from the past.
Sarah develops a crush on a boy in her class, Adam. She also gets bullied by a girl named Annie. But for the most part she likes her new home. She especially loves going out on the schooner with her parents and listening to the whales, which are Sarah and her mother's new love.
Not long after being in their new home, Sarah's mom starts having fainting spells. It is discovered that she has a rare condition that is slowly wasting her away. When Sarah finds this out she's devastated. Unfortunately, there's nothing anyone can do for her mother. Her doctors only give her about two to three more years to live, max.
When Daniella eventually ends up in a coma, something happens and she dies. Jack (Sarah's father) is arrested for pulling the plug on the machines that were keeping his wife alive. Sadly, after his long-awaited court date, the jury finds him guilty and he's sentenced to ten years in prison.
Sarah has to go back to the U.S. with her grandparents and leave everything behind once again. She tries to block out all that has happened to her back in Canada, even the good things. But when she's older (in her 20's), someone comes along and opens her floodgates (so to speak), and she once again remembers everything, including how her mother died.
This was an incredibly hard book to write a summary of. So much happens in WHALE SONG that it's hard to cover the basic things in a short summary. Just go read the book and you'll find out how wonderful it is! It's completely heart wrenching because you know all along that Daniella is dying. But the whole book is just amazing.
I seriously never wanted to put it down. Ms. Tardif's use of words is incredible, like when she's talking about the killer whales or describing scenery. They just flow so easily across every page. My heartstrings were being pulled the entire time and I absolutely loved it. If you like these type of books, I seriously recommend getting yourself a copy. You seriously won't be disappointed. And yes, I know I just overused the word seriously -- sorry!
December 24, 2008
I've read the first two chapters and can't wait to read the rest, fantastic author!!! Update: 4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:
A Literary Master Piece!!!, November 24, 2008
By Chase von (California) - See all my reviews
This is going to be an unusual review for me. I too am an author and I have also read other works by this immensely talented woman and also interviewed her. I also have a suggestion but I will mention that again at the end of this review. I'm also a two time war veteran and retired Marine.
There is a common misconception about Marines. I.e. "Dumb Jar Heads!" The truth of the matter is, and this applies to all ranks. Many "Marines" are some of the most well read individuals you will ever meet in your life! And the reason for that is "Down Time" and I am sure this also applies to the sister services as well. I do suffer from PTSD so my memory isn't what it use to be, but I do remember being on a field op in Big Island Hawaii.
I walked up on a Cpl and he was engrossed in a book. I watched him for a while and I could see the emotions on his face and how he was holding back tears. Big burly guy with muscles in his eye brows I might add.
Watcha reading? I startled him, and he tried to hide his emotions and then he gave up trying.
"You have GOT TO READ THIS BOOK!!!"
Me and about five others did. I also knew after reading that book, what everyone I cared about was getting from me for Christmas.
"Whale Song" is just such a book as well!
The only other book I've done that with is "The Bridges Of Madison County" by Robert James Waller.
Something else that has touched me in a way that "Whale Song" has touched me is the movie by Sean Penn called "Into The Wild." If I had Sean Penn's personal mailing address I would be sending him a copy of "Whale Song" so he could turn it into a movie and I know he would do so superbly!
Buy this book as a Christmas present for those you love and believe me when I say this, it is a gift that will last a life time!
Oh and as far as my suggestion I said I would address in the end?
Have tissues handy because this book will not only tug on your heart strings, I can say for myself, it basically tore quite a few out!!!
And one last thing...
The book me and others read in the field and knew it was a sure fire, can't miss gift for those we loved for Christmas?
It is called.
"The Note Book" by Nicholas Sparks.
"Whale Song"
Is not only that good...
It just might be considered by some, better.
I know if I had to chose, I wouldn't be able to.
Respectfully
Chase Von
Your Chance to Hear The Last Panther Speak
The Last Panther
A Literary Master Piece!!!, November 24, 2008
By Chase von (California) - See all my reviews
This is going to be an unusual review for me. I too am an author and I have also read other works by this immensely talented woman and also interviewed her. I also have a suggestion but I will mention that again at the end of this review. I'm also a two time war veteran and retired Marine.
There is a common misconception about Marines. I.e. "Dumb Jar Heads!" The truth of the matter is, and this applies to all ranks. Many "Marines" are some of the most well read individuals you will ever meet in your life! And the reason for that is "Down Time" and I am sure this also applies to the sister services as well. I do suffer from PTSD so my memory isn't what it use to be, but I do remember being on a field op in Big Island Hawaii.
I walked up on a Cpl and he was engrossed in a book. I watched him for a while and I could see the emotions on his face and how he was holding back tears. Big burly guy with muscles in his eye brows I might add.
Watcha reading? I startled him, and he tried to hide his emotions and then he gave up trying.
"You have GOT TO READ THIS BOOK!!!"
Me and about five others did. I also knew after reading that book, what everyone I cared about was getting from me for Christmas.
"Whale Song" is just such a book as well!
The only other book I've done that with is "The Bridges Of Madison County" by Robert James Waller.
Something else that has touched me in a way that "Whale Song" has touched me is the movie by Sean Penn called "Into The Wild." If I had Sean Penn's personal mailing address I would be sending him a copy of "Whale Song" so he could turn it into a movie and I know he would do so superbly!
Buy this book as a Christmas present for those you love and believe me when I say this, it is a gift that will last a life time!
Oh and as far as my suggestion I said I would address in the end?
Have tissues handy because this book will not only tug on your heart strings, I can say for myself, it basically tore quite a few out!!!
And one last thing...
The book me and others read in the field and knew it was a sure fire, can't miss gift for those we loved for Christmas?
It is called.
"The Note Book" by Nicholas Sparks.
"Whale Song"
Is not only that good...
It just might be considered by some, better.
I know if I had to chose, I wouldn't be able to.
Respectfully
Chase Von
Your Chance to Hear The Last Panther Speak
The Last Panther
June 2, 2008
In the summer of 1977, eleven-year-old Sarah Richardson is filled with trepidation and resentment when her father’s new job forces her to leave her home and best friend in Wyoming to relocate in the remote town of Bamfield on Vancouver Island. But these feelings fade when she sees her gorgeous new home overlooking the ocean and befriends and Indian (a term commonly used for First Nations people in 1977) girl named Goldie. Of course, her idyllic summer with her parents and Goldie doesn’t last. Once school begins, Sarah endures long, painful lessons about bullying, racial hatred, and family tragedy.
Cheryl Kaye Tardif’s WHALE SONG is an unusual mystery. Although the story opens with an adult Sarah reflecting back on the summer that changed her life, she eases into eleven-year-old Sarah’s point of view as the story unfolds, turning the book into a young adult novel. But then grownup Sarah slides briefly back into the story with ominous foreshadowing about events she wished she’d seen coming.
The other unique aspect is that the mystery doesn’t occur until two thirds into the book. Certainly, the reader feels tension building among main characters and a grim situation inevitably spiraling out of control. But death, a police investigation, and murder charge don’t occur until the reader knows the Richardson family so well that we feel their anguish. Some mystery fans might loathe the pacing of events, yet it’s important to understand that mystery is only one facet of this multi-layered story. Crime might not be center stage in WHALE SONG, however, it’s essential to the story.
Cross-genre novels are hard to pigeonhole, and this one will be a challenge for librarians and booksellers. WHALE SONG is an elegantly written, heartbreaking blend of friendships lost and gained, family tragedy, spirituality, death, guilt, punishment, and forgiveness. This is a lot to incorporate into one novel, but Tardif does it beautifully in a mere 199 pages. If you want something different in a mystery, WHALE SONG is a compelling story you won’t forget any time soon.
Cheryl Kaye Tardif’s WHALE SONG is an unusual mystery. Although the story opens with an adult Sarah reflecting back on the summer that changed her life, she eases into eleven-year-old Sarah’s point of view as the story unfolds, turning the book into a young adult novel. But then grownup Sarah slides briefly back into the story with ominous foreshadowing about events she wished she’d seen coming.
The other unique aspect is that the mystery doesn’t occur until two thirds into the book. Certainly, the reader feels tension building among main characters and a grim situation inevitably spiraling out of control. But death, a police investigation, and murder charge don’t occur until the reader knows the Richardson family so well that we feel their anguish. Some mystery fans might loathe the pacing of events, yet it’s important to understand that mystery is only one facet of this multi-layered story. Crime might not be center stage in WHALE SONG, however, it’s essential to the story.
Cross-genre novels are hard to pigeonhole, and this one will be a challenge for librarians and booksellers. WHALE SONG is an elegantly written, heartbreaking blend of friendships lost and gained, family tragedy, spirituality, death, guilt, punishment, and forgiveness. This is a lot to incorporate into one novel, but Tardif does it beautifully in a mere 199 pages. If you want something different in a mystery, WHALE SONG is a compelling story you won’t forget any time soon.
January 16, 2009
Whale Song
Cheryl Kaye Tardif
Kunati Inc. 2007
In USA: 6901 Bryan Dairy Rd., Suite 150, Largo, FL. 33777
In Canada: 2600 Skymark Ave., Bldg. 12, Suite 103, Mississauga, Canada L4W 5B2
www.kunati.com
www.cherylktardif.com
SC 199 pages, $12.95 USA
ISBN # 1-60164-007-2
Reviewed by Christina Francine Whitcher
CFrancine@mail2world.com
We try to make sense of our world. A logical explanation often provides some comfort, however, this is not always the case. Our brain may not find needed answers, but the heart may. Sometimes it is the illogical, the unexplained that guides us through. This is how it is with eleven-year-old Sarah.
Sarah tried to adapt to her parent’s decision to move from Wyoming to Vancouver Island, Canada, and did. Her father had been offered a position to study killer whales and to record their vocalization instead of being a marine biology professor at the university. At first Sarah wasn’t so sure she liked the idea. For one thing, she had to leave behind her best friend and familiarity, but her new home did have perks. For one thing her bedroom was bigger and from her window, she could see the ocean. Secondly, it wasn’t long before she had a new best friend, whom Sarah adored, and she came to learn more about orca whales than she ever imagined. Not-so-good things also occurred too, and Sarah wasn’t sure of how she would deal with these. Prejudices, Indian legends, and later a blow that devastates her once safe world. She knew her move would change her life but she never imagined how much. She’d never listen to a whale’s song the same again.
A powerful coming of age tale with heroism and courage. The level of perception and sensitivity is not only convincing but haunting. Tardif again leaves a lasting mark on her readers. Her story promises to follow long after ending. This is the second book I’ve read by Tardif and each one grabbed me and wouldn’t let go – even after I’d completed the last page. It’s one of those books which stops time and leaves you hungry for more. Moving and irresistible.
Cheryl Kaye Tardif
Kunati Inc. 2007
In USA: 6901 Bryan Dairy Rd., Suite 150, Largo, FL. 33777
In Canada: 2600 Skymark Ave., Bldg. 12, Suite 103, Mississauga, Canada L4W 5B2
www.kunati.com
www.cherylktardif.com
SC 199 pages, $12.95 USA
ISBN # 1-60164-007-2
Reviewed by Christina Francine Whitcher
CFrancine@mail2world.com
We try to make sense of our world. A logical explanation often provides some comfort, however, this is not always the case. Our brain may not find needed answers, but the heart may. Sometimes it is the illogical, the unexplained that guides us through. This is how it is with eleven-year-old Sarah.
Sarah tried to adapt to her parent’s decision to move from Wyoming to Vancouver Island, Canada, and did. Her father had been offered a position to study killer whales and to record their vocalization instead of being a marine biology professor at the university. At first Sarah wasn’t so sure she liked the idea. For one thing, she had to leave behind her best friend and familiarity, but her new home did have perks. For one thing her bedroom was bigger and from her window, she could see the ocean. Secondly, it wasn’t long before she had a new best friend, whom Sarah adored, and she came to learn more about orca whales than she ever imagined. Not-so-good things also occurred too, and Sarah wasn’t sure of how she would deal with these. Prejudices, Indian legends, and later a blow that devastates her once safe world. She knew her move would change her life but she never imagined how much. She’d never listen to a whale’s song the same again.
A powerful coming of age tale with heroism and courage. The level of perception and sensitivity is not only convincing but haunting. Tardif again leaves a lasting mark on her readers. Her story promises to follow long after ending. This is the second book I’ve read by Tardif and each one grabbed me and wouldn’t let go – even after I’d completed the last page. It’s one of those books which stops time and leaves you hungry for more. Moving and irresistible.
November 1, 2008
I wasn't sure what to expect from this book other than there would be whales in it. The summary above comes from the back of the book and doesn't say much. I'll tell you a little more about the book so you can properly decide if it's your kind of book but don't worry, I'd never reveal too much or spoil and ending.
The main character is an 11 year old girl whose family moves to a small town where most of the inhabitants are Native Canadians. The book is Children's Fiction but for older children, say 12 and up. A large portion of the book has stories, myths and history of Native Canadians, specifically Huuayaht. I found this very interesting.
Also, since the summary says a tragedy will happen but doesn't specify anything, you don't know where or when it will happen. I don't know if it was on purpose or not but quite a few times the words made me think the tragedy would happen next and I was wrong. As an adult, later on in the book I figured out what the tragedy would be although I wasn't sure who did it. I had an idea and it did turn out to be right but I could just have easily been wrong. I don't think a child reader would be guess what the tragedy would be.
Another common occurrence in this book is bullying and the book teaches good lessons about it. It may be a good book to give to a child who is being bullied just as a fun read but with underlying lessons.
Overall I enjoyed the book although I did find my mind wandering a bit. The writing style didn't pull me into it's hold until the second half of the book.
The main character is an 11 year old girl whose family moves to a small town where most of the inhabitants are Native Canadians. The book is Children's Fiction but for older children, say 12 and up. A large portion of the book has stories, myths and history of Native Canadians, specifically Huuayaht. I found this very interesting.
Also, since the summary says a tragedy will happen but doesn't specify anything, you don't know where or when it will happen. I don't know if it was on purpose or not but quite a few times the words made me think the tragedy would happen next and I was wrong. As an adult, later on in the book I figured out what the tragedy would be although I wasn't sure who did it. I had an idea and it did turn out to be right but I could just have easily been wrong. I don't think a child reader would be guess what the tragedy would be.
Another common occurrence in this book is bullying and the book teaches good lessons about it. It may be a good book to give to a child who is being bullied just as a fun read but with underlying lessons.
Overall I enjoyed the book although I did find my mind wandering a bit. The writing style didn't pull me into it's hold until the second half of the book.
October 23, 2007
10/22/07
TITLE/AUTHOR: Whale Song by Cheryl Kaye Tardif
RATING: 4.5/B+
GENRE/PUB DATE/# OF PGS: Fiction/2003/201 pgs
SERIES/STAND ALONE: Stand-alone
TIME/PLACE: 1977/Vancouver Island
CHARACTERS: Sarah/11-yr-old daughter of Jack/marine biologist & Danielle/artist
FIRST LINES:I once feared death. It is said that death begins w/ the absence of life. And life begins when death is no longer feared. I have stared death in the face and survived.
COMMENTS:
rec'd from author 10/17/07 (THANKS!)Captivating story w/ complex characters covering a lot of issues in a beautiful natural setting . Told through the perspective of 11-yr-old Sarah. Sarah leaves her home in Wyoming when her father is transferred to Vancouver Island. He is a marine biolgist & has a great offer to study the whales in the area. Sarah leaves behind her best friend and everything she knew but discovers a new life. Some hard challenges -- adjusting to being "the white girl" in a small community of mostly Nootka Indians, experiencing the new school and bullying. At the same time she is welcomed by her neighbors Goldie and Nana and learns their native spiritual ways, makes a new best friend and finds a way to understand and forgive Annie, the bully. A few years later the ultimate tragedy -- the death of her mother, altho' terminally ill, the end may not have been natural. Sarah is very bitter and detached for years after this loss but through her family of friends she eventually finds redemption.
TITLE/AUTHOR: Whale Song by Cheryl Kaye Tardif
RATING: 4.5/B+
GENRE/PUB DATE/# OF PGS: Fiction/2003/201 pgs
SERIES/STAND ALONE: Stand-alone
TIME/PLACE: 1977/Vancouver Island
CHARACTERS: Sarah/11-yr-old daughter of Jack/marine biologist & Danielle/artist
FIRST LINES:I once feared death. It is said that death begins w/ the absence of life. And life begins when death is no longer feared. I have stared death in the face and survived.
COMMENTS:
rec'd from author 10/17/07 (THANKS!)Captivating story w/ complex characters covering a lot of issues in a beautiful natural setting . Told through the perspective of 11-yr-old Sarah. Sarah leaves her home in Wyoming when her father is transferred to Vancouver Island. He is a marine biolgist & has a great offer to study the whales in the area. Sarah leaves behind her best friend and everything she knew but discovers a new life. Some hard challenges -- adjusting to being "the white girl" in a small community of mostly Nootka Indians, experiencing the new school and bullying. At the same time she is welcomed by her neighbors Goldie and Nana and learns their native spiritual ways, makes a new best friend and finds a way to understand and forgive Annie, the bully. A few years later the ultimate tragedy -- the death of her mother, altho' terminally ill, the end may not have been natural. Sarah is very bitter and detached for years after this loss but through her family of friends she eventually finds redemption.
October 3, 2007
INSPIRED
When Cheryl Tardif's publisher invited me to read Whale Song, I admit to beginning with a certain amount of trepidation. After all, the novel is YA, aimed at young female readers, and I'm 66 and male. I'm so glad I didn't let those things deter me. Cheryl Tardif is wonderfully talented. Her prose is clean, so economical I found the act of reading esthetically pleasing in and of itself. And yes, just as you would suspect, beneath this technically superior surface lurks a story of intensity, passion, and drama. Even though the outcome is foretold in various chapter endings, the story still hooked me, pulled me ever forward, toward the fateful conclusion. It's a book about life and death. I loved it. Recommended for anyone who can remember the pain of adolescence. To those of you who are there now, Whale Song might make the journey a little easier. For those who can only remember, Whale Song will bring a tear to your eye and make you wish you could go back and do it all again, no matter how hard your own journey was.
When Cheryl Tardif's publisher invited me to read Whale Song, I admit to beginning with a certain amount of trepidation. After all, the novel is YA, aimed at young female readers, and I'm 66 and male. I'm so glad I didn't let those things deter me. Cheryl Tardif is wonderfully talented. Her prose is clean, so economical I found the act of reading esthetically pleasing in and of itself. And yes, just as you would suspect, beneath this technically superior surface lurks a story of intensity, passion, and drama. Even though the outcome is foretold in various chapter endings, the story still hooked me, pulled me ever forward, toward the fateful conclusion. It's a book about life and death. I loved it. Recommended for anyone who can remember the pain of adolescence. To those of you who are there now, Whale Song might make the journey a little easier. For those who can only remember, Whale Song will bring a tear to your eye and make you wish you could go back and do it all again, no matter how hard your own journey was.
November 7, 2007
A touching story about life and heartbreak set against the backdrop of Canada's native people. Tardif's storytelling pulls you into the life of young Sarah and her family- taking you on a journey of pain and discovery. As Sarah and her family are transplanted from the USA to Canada, Sarah feels her world is coming apart. But she meets new friends and begins to like her new life. Just as she is feeling settled, life throws another curve ball, one that threatens to take away all the people she loves. The story sees Sarah struggle with forgiveness and the very real pain of loss as she grows from a young child to a young woman.
While the writing is sometimes a bit rough, the story is not. I found myself anxious to read the next chapter as I drew to the end of each part. Tardif has created heart-warming scenes and paired them with heartbreak and then followed the journey that emerges. Well worth reading!
While the writing is sometimes a bit rough, the story is not. I found myself anxious to read the next chapter as I drew to the end of each part. Tardif has created heart-warming scenes and paired them with heartbreak and then followed the journey that emerges. Well worth reading!
September 19, 2007
It's hard not to think about the influences on this lovely novel:
Judy Blume's ear for the desperate seeking of adolescence, Garth Stein'ssense of the texture and mythos of the Northwest Coast. But past the influences,there's a pervasive spirituality that runs through this book.
It's message is one of reconciliation, imagination and forgiveness. It underlies the questions of adolescent autonomy and the right to determine the end one's life. It is much deeper than the issues of bullying and fitting in and first love that occupy and pre-occupy so many YA novels.
There are charming characters here: you might be able to forget Sarah the narrator, but you will never forget Nana, her spiritual mentor. And you will certainly remember the wolf and the whale who form the core of this story.
Judy Blume's ear for the desperate seeking of adolescence, Garth Stein'ssense of the texture and mythos of the Northwest Coast. But past the influences,there's a pervasive spirituality that runs through this book.
It's message is one of reconciliation, imagination and forgiveness. It underlies the questions of adolescent autonomy and the right to determine the end one's life. It is much deeper than the issues of bullying and fitting in and first love that occupy and pre-occupy so many YA novels.
There are charming characters here: you might be able to forget Sarah the narrator, but you will never forget Nana, her spiritual mentor. And you will certainly remember the wolf and the whale who form the core of this story.
June 10, 2010
Sixth grader Sarah Richardson's father is a marine biologist who lives and teaches in Montana. When he gets his dream job to study whales on Vancouver Island, he packs up the family and moves to a tiny First Nations community. Sarah experiences racism and bullying at her new school, but she also makes a new best friend, Goldie. Goldie's grandmother provides wisdom and love for the displaced Sarah and her mother. The tribe provide comfort during the tragedy which changes Sarah's life forever.
Told by Sarah as an adult, the story contains many: "If only I'd known" moments which distract from the flow. The lectures on killer whales are interesting and the leisurely pace of the story reflects the leisurely pace of the island. As a young adult coming of age story, I'm not sure I would have liked it as a youth, but it was in interesting story to read as an adult.
Told by Sarah as an adult, the story contains many: "If only I'd known" moments which distract from the flow. The lectures on killer whales are interesting and the leisurely pace of the story reflects the leisurely pace of the island. As a young adult coming of age story, I'm not sure I would have liked it as a youth, but it was in interesting story to read as an adult.
January 15, 2013
Got this as a free download because of the storyline, though it's not my usual type of book at all. More 'chick lit' than what I normally read, but the scenario of a girl moving from Wyoming to west coast Indian reservation, a reservation school and dealing with prejudice hit home for me. I've been there myself, many years ago.
I found a great deal of realism in the book. The discrimination was accentuated for the fictionalized tension but I did not feel that it was badly presented or unrealistic in most ways. A very good sense of the confusion that can result from exposure to a very unexpected reality.
The ending did seem rather hurried and with a lack of detail, as if once the main story was told, the author didn't find much more to say. Overall, however, a book that was not in my usual comfort zone that I appreciated.
I found a great deal of realism in the book. The discrimination was accentuated for the fictionalized tension but I did not feel that it was badly presented or unrealistic in most ways. A very good sense of the confusion that can result from exposure to a very unexpected reality.
The ending did seem rather hurried and with a lack of detail, as if once the main story was told, the author didn't find much more to say. Overall, however, a book that was not in my usual comfort zone that I appreciated.
October 14, 2008
Another hit for Kunati publishing! Cheryl Kaye Tardiff's story of a young girl's struggle to leave her home in Wyoming to move to Canada with her parents touches the very soul of the reader. Change is hard for any age. Cheryl weaves the uncertain path of life, death and recovery with a golden needle. Many times I found myself fighting back the tears because of the grip of real-life emotion. Ms. Tardiff spans multi-tradtions, as well as multi-races and brings you full circle through the murder of Sarah's mother. Could her hero father actually have been THAT selfish? It's a great read for any age and the valuable 'lessons' portrayed are bone jarring. There has been talk of making the book into a movie and I'd love to be the first in line! Great Work Cheryl Kay Tardif!
September 14, 2012
I suspect this is a YA book- didn't notice that when I bought it. Even so, it's a thin read. (Harry Potter is a YA novel, too- just sayin'). The relationships are immature and not fleshed out with any depth (especially the male/female ones). I enjoyed the setting and the narrative is fine. The first third of the book does a nice job setting the stage and building a sense anticipation. But mixed into this is the overhanded foreshadowing of the mom's death, which is inexplicably announced several times in some clunky foreshadowing. I feel that the book "talks down" to the reader, spelling things out in an overhanded way. Again, there are plenty of great YA novels out there that don't resort to this.
July 22, 2010
For Anyone Young or Young At Heart!
I found this book spiritual, mystical and very sweet. Cheryl Kaye Tardif writes like the flow of a river. I was transported to this tiny island in Canada and felt life I had also grown up there. Some people will say that since it is focused on a young girl coming of age, men/boys may not relate to it... this is absolutely false... anyone who is young or young at heart will love this book. I plan on buying copies for many of my friends and family this December. It will forever hold a small place in my heart.
I found this book spiritual, mystical and very sweet. Cheryl Kaye Tardif writes like the flow of a river. I was transported to this tiny island in Canada and felt life I had also grown up there. Some people will say that since it is focused on a young girl coming of age, men/boys may not relate to it... this is absolutely false... anyone who is young or young at heart will love this book. I plan on buying copies for many of my friends and family this December. It will forever hold a small place in my heart.
October 1, 2007
Great book...and I heard about it from Goodreads! Cheryl Tardif captured what it feels like to lose someone you love and so many of the different emotions you go through. She also captured an accurate portrayal of a girls adolescence--like the first kiss of an 11-year-old; that was very cute. This was a short, quick read that kept me entertained throughout.
March 4, 2008
This was a lot different than I had expected. When I first started reading it, I thought that the tragedy would be a lot different than it was, and I was expecting it throughout the book. But when it turned out to be different than I was thinking, I really started to get into the book. There were quite a few twists in it...overall it was a really great read.
September 4, 2016
This was a sad story but mostly it was just too predictable. It was an easy read and didn't take any brain power at all. The story is a young woman's reflection on events in her life that involved a move and the death of her mother at an early age. You could probably guess what happened just from that description.
November 1, 2012
The folklore in this book was really interesting and the author did a great job painting the scenery for me. I was ready to hop on a plane and go play with the whales. I guess my biggest issue was the constant foreshadowing of what was to come. I got annoyed with the references in every chapter to the horrible tragedy that the summary already said was coming.
November 5, 2015
Beautiful Story
Whale Song is a beautiful story of a young girl's emotional journey to the ability to let go and to gain freedom. Told from Sarah's perspective, this story is about making friends, learning a new culture, and learning to live with the death of her mother. In places this book brought me to tears, but it also has a happy ending.
Whale Song is a beautiful story of a young girl's emotional journey to the ability to let go and to gain freedom. Told from Sarah's perspective, this story is about making friends, learning a new culture, and learning to live with the death of her mother. In places this book brought me to tears, but it also has a happy ending.
April 7, 2008
This book was pretty interesting because it dealt with a lot of different and unusual themes- self-assisted suicide, native spirituality, memory loss and family relationships. It is set on Vancouver Island, which was kind of cool too.
September 15, 2009
This was an easy read and a real page turner. I know it might have been aimed partially at young adults but it reached places -- sadness child abuse racism, bullying, losing a parent...all in own little book.
April 8, 2014
This was a warm story that deals with current issues such as bullying, growing up, and assisted suicide. For some people, I recommend having tissues handy because it may be emotional for some. I recommend this for young adults as well as for adults.
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