Belle had the talent. She had the drive. But in early 20th-century Chicago, a proper Jewish girl’s place was in the home, not on the concert stage.
Based on a true story, Violin Girl follows Belle as her gift carried her toward a life her family and society would never approve. Marriage and motherhood are her preordained future. Professional women musicians did not raise families. What was she to do?
The life Belle builds-what she gives, what she keeps, what she grieves-fills with music, with heartbreak and with the resilience to make something beautiful from what she is handed. Through it all, she remembers her mother’s refrain: Don’t complain. Just make do.
Violin Girl is also available at:
"A vivdly narrated, heartwarming, and inspirational tale. Susan Sokol Blosser introduces Belle, a delightfully unconventional heroine, who comes of age as a gifted female musician in early 20th-century Chicago, rising above the discrimination and misogyny of her time to experience early success and an ultimately satisfying life. Applause for Violin Girl!"
"Pioneering icon of Oregon's wine industry. Respected community leader. Innovative philathropist. These are all terms that describe the remarkable Susan Sokol Blosser. And with the publication of Violin Girl, she now adds the title of talented novelist. Violin Girl is captivating and page-turning story, full of unforgettable characters and events that will both break and warm your heart."
"Violin Girl is a delightful novel that follows a talented female violinist as she faces anti-semitism, misogyny, and the pressure to marry and raise a family. We cheer as we watch Belle navigate the ever-changing course of the 20th Century. In Belle Feingold, Sokol Blosser has created a character whose love of music and resilience you won't easily forget."
Location: Newberg Public Library
Join Susan Sokol Blosser at the Newberg Public Library to celebrate the launch of her first work of fiction, Violin Girl.
Hear Susan read from the book, share the story behind Violin Girl, answer your questions, and pick up your own copy.
Location: Jupiter NEXT
She Flies, A Built Festival Event 2026. Come for a night of community with female identifying founders of CPG products. We’ll enjoy drinks, nibbles, exciting talks, and community.
Register HERE
Newberg Noon Rotary
1st Presbyterian Church, Fellowship Hall, 501 Mission Drive, Newberg, OR 97132
Essays and reflections on wine, work, family, and the lessons learned along the way.
Coming September 22, 2026!
Belle had the talent. She had the drive. But in early 20th-century Chicago, a proper Jewish girl’s place was in the home, not on the concert stage.
Based on a true story, Violin Girl follows Belle as her gift carried her toward a life her family and society would never approve. Marriage and motherhood are her preordained future. Professional women musicians did not raise families. What was she to do?
Join Susan Sokol Blosser at the Newberg Public Library to celebrate the launch of her first work of fiction, Violin Girl.
Hear Susan read from the book, share the story behind Violin Girl, answer your questions, and pick up your own copy.
September 22 | 6–7:30 PM
Newberg Public Library
