A Song for a New Day

by Sarah Pinsker
A Song for a New Day cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
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Paperback • £8.99
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Technical
  • ID: 1188
  • Added: 2025-09-27
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9781800243866
  • Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing
  • Published: 2020-08-20
  • Formats: 17
  • Reviews: 4

A Song for a New Day explores a chillingly plausible near-future United States where liberty and artistic expression are compromised by political and socioeconomic realities. The story weaves together the lives of Luce, a musician on the brink of success, and Rosemary, a young woman who has only known a world of virtual interactions. As their paths collide, they each embark on a journey that challenges the boundaries of their isolated existences. The novel delves into themes of connection, resilience, and the power of music to transcend barriers. Pinsker's vivid storytelling captures the tension between individual aspirations and societal constraints, offering a poignant commentary on contemporary issues. Through Rosemary's coming-of-age journey and Luce's struggle to maintain her artistic integrity, the narrative unfolds in a world where proximity to others is not only unusual but also illegal.

Reviews
Opinions of a Wolf · 2023-01-30
thought-provoking 4.00

This sci-fi book brings authentic representation and explores a dystopian future with depth and authenticity. It's a thought-provoking read that resonates on multiple levels.

The reviewer appreciates the book's authentic representation of a queer, Jewish musician's perspective. They find the dystopian setting thought-provoking and the exploration of music's role in society particularly engaging. The book's ability to blend science fiction with real-world issues makes it a standout read. The reviewer also notes the book's hopeful tone, which balances the darker aspects of the story.

Quick quotes

    This is a scifi book about a dystopian future written by a queer, Jewish musician. It thus brings authentic representation to all three of these.

    As a speculative novel, Pinsker's story offers an opportunity to exercise our moral imagination: to ask, how we will maintain a fully human life

    Overall, it was a very interesting read that makes you think about what will come next, but is hopeful enough that it doesn't plunge you into despair.

The Eyrie · 2022-03-26
compelling 3.80

The novel effectively captures the feeling of live music for both performers and listeners. It is praised for its authentic representation and character development.

The reviewer at The Eyrie appreciates how 'A Song for a New Day' manages to convey the emotional and sensory experience of live music, even in a dystopian setting. The novel's ability to make the reader feel the energy and connection of a live performance is noted as a significant achievement. The reviewer also praises the authentic representation of characters from diverse backgrounds, including queer and Jewish perspectives, which adds richness to the story. The character development is highlighted as a strong point, with the dual narratives providing a well-rounded exploration of the themes. Overall, the novel is seen as a compelling and emotionally resonant read.

Quick quotes

    Partly succeeded in capturing the feeling of live music

    Authentic representation of characters from diverse backgrounds

    Strong character development with dual narratives

Masters Review · 2020-07-16
timely 4.00

The novel is praised for its timeliness and exploration of music's role in a dystopian society. The dual perspectives of the characters add depth to the narrative.

This review highlights how 'A Song for a New Day' feels eerily relevant, especially in light of recent global events that have restricted public gatherings. The reviewer appreciates the way Pinsker weaves together the stories of two women connected by their love for music, making the narrative both engaging and thought-provoking. The exploration of music's power to bring people together in a world where it's forbidden is particularly compelling. The reviewer also notes the authenticity in the portrayal of the characters' struggles and triumphs, making the story resonate on a personal level. Overall, the novel is seen as a powerful commentary on the importance of art and freedom in society.

Quick quotes

    An unsettlingly timely novel

    The dual perspectives add depth to the narrative

    The exploration of music's power to bring people together is compelling

Pitchfork · 2020-07-01
prescient 4.20

The book is noted for its prescient portrayal of a world without live music and its impact on culture. It offers a vision of radicalism and resilience in the face of oppression.

Pitchfork's review points out how 'A Song for a New Day' seems to predict the current state of the world, where live music and public gatherings are restricted. The reviewer finds the novel's exploration of how people adapt and find ways to express themselves through music in such a restrictive environment to be both insightful and inspiring. The story's focus on the resilience of the human spirit and the power of art to challenge oppression is highlighted as particularly moving. The reviewer also appreciates the way Pinsker captures the essence of live music and its importance to culture, making the novel a poignant read in today's context.

Quick quotes

    Eerily predicted our dystopian concert-less world

    Offers a vision of radicalism and resilience

    Captures the essence of live music and its importance

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