*Nancy Paulsen, Publisher, sent me a copy of this middle-grade novel. The book will be released to the world on Thursday, July 6, 2023. I spent a wonderful summer afternoon by the pool with this strong, touching, and heartfelt story.
What It Is About - FIVE Things You Need to Know:
*April is eleven years old and has dreams of being a "rock-star" drummer.
*Zee is also eleven years old and his dream is all about the violin.
*The two of them are best friends, but when Zee switches to a new school which focuses on music, April isn't sure how she will navigate without him.
*As she adjust to life at school without Zee, she meets a new girl who seems to have secrets because she comes and goes from school without any reason.
*April is dealing with many changes both at home and school, but when the biggest change looks her directly in the face, she isn't sure if she can move forward.
What I Thought Of It - Five Observations/Reflections:
*This book was a novel in verse which suited the story perfectly.
*I so enjoyed reading about April, Zee, and their love of music. I don't play a musical instrument, but found it fascinating to read about young people with a passion for music.
*The slow build up within the plot was executed with precision, grace, and heart.
*I was not expecting the "turn of events" and once I reached that moment, I could not put the book down.
*Kaija Langley wrote a story with difficult life events, but did so in a way that the reader always felt a sense of hope and purpose.
Who Should Read It:
*The middle-grade novel will be perfect for the young reader who has a strong interest in music and/or instruments. In my opinion, the story if geared toward readers in grades four, five, and six. Middle-school students would also be ideal for the journey of April and Zee. Happy Reading!
Rating: 4 STARS out of 5 Stars
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