I Am a Bandito
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-- School Library Journal, 08/28/2007
Any kid who has ever put on a backyard concert or sat through the pouring rain playing fight songs at a high school football game can attest to the ups and downs of being part of a band. Each title features characters that most kids will identify with, in spite of musical inclinations. Put these books on display around talent show time, or in conjunction with a music event in your library or town that is popular with teens.
ECHOLS, Jennifer. Major Crush. S & S/Pulse. 2006. pap. $5.99. ISBN 978-1-4169-1830-1.
Gr 8 Up–This romantic comedy takes a delightful look at the highs and lows of being in the high school marching band. Virginia, pageant queen turned drum major, has to share the honor with hottie Drew, whose heritage virtually guarantees him the position. The additional story line on Virginia’s father’s recent infidelity is realistic, and provides a gentle message on forgiveness.
NELSON, Blake. Rock Star, Superstar. Viking. 2004. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-670-05933-1.
Gr 10 Up–Peter, 16 years old and a very talented jazz bassist, is playing with an up-and-coming rock band. At the same time, he is struggling with falling in love, sexual experiences, and an often absent widowed father who is a former musician. Teens will appreciate this very real look at a life that they may often fantasize about.
SONNENBLICK, Jordan. Drums, Girls & Dangerous Pie. Scholastic. 2005. Tr $15.95. ISBN 978-0-439-75519-1; pap. $6.99. ISBN 978-0-439-75520-7.
Gr 6-10–Steven, the drummer in the high school jazz band, is falling for the wrong girl. At home, he has an annoying but adorable five-year-old brother who worships the ground he walks on. When young Jeffrey starts to be sick all the time, the family discovers he has leukemia, and their whole world gets flipped over. A real tearjerker with a happy ending.
WATTS, Leander. Beautiful City of the Dead. Houghton. 2006. Tr $16. ISBN 978-0-618-59443-6; pap. $7.99. ISBN 978-0-618-59499-3.
Gr 7-12–Her first day at a new high school, Zee is feverish and apprehensive. But when she meets super-cool and intense Relly, a member of garage band Scorpio Bone, she instantly feels a connection. His interest in her song lyrics leads Zee to become the band’s bass player, and to create the “Ghost Metal” sound that has the potential to make Scorpio Bone immortal. A bit of romance wrapped in a rockin’ fantasy!
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