Behind the Song

June 1, 2017
A compilation of stories and essays written by authors and musicians sharing the deep influences of music that helped to shape their lives, particularly calling upon their own adolescences. Any such collection presents a generational perspective that risks a disconnect with young readers, and many of the pieces do not seek to bridge this gap. Jonathan Maberry breaks this pattern with a refreshing essay that takes the time to connect with the contemporary teen audience this book is intended for, as he consciously and carefully introduces younger readers to a music culture in which there were "no iPods, no Internet streaming, no CDs." His timeless essay, filled with a lengthy list of musicians, is a soul-searching piece that can be read for years to come. The anthology does include a few diverse authors, giving readers glimpses into the personal musical influences of such authors as Ellen Oh and E.C. Myers as well as a haunting essay by musician Donn T. Some contributors reference their own songs, such as musician G. Love and author James Howe, who writes about a song he wrote with his husband, Mark Davis. In a sour note, all but one of the musical choices within this book's playlist are from white creators (the exception is Oh's inspiration, South Korean girl group 2NE1). Befitting the anthology's topic, there are sex and drugs to go with the rock 'n' roll. An entertaining-enough collection for adult fans wanting trips down Memory Lane, though perhaps not quite so successful a one for teens. (Anthology. 14-adult)

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July 1, 2017

Gr 9 Up-This anthology about music hits all the right notes. Young adult authors and musicians share the power of music through essays and short stories inspired by particular songs. The 14 entries are sparked by a diverse group of artists, such as Bob Dylan, the Killers, Amy Winehouse, Oasis, and the Eagles. Readers will recognize some of the popular authors who contributed, such as Ellen Hopkins, Ellen Oh, David Arnold, and Elisa Ludwig. The pieces are about more than just the songs and reveal personal philosophies that will resonate even with readers unfamiliar with the music. A biography of each contributor is included to further explore the impact music has had on the lives of each author. All of the songs are listed on a comprehensive playlist so that teens can create their own mixtapes. Highlights of the collection are Beth Kephart's personal essay "The Opposite of Ordinary," inspired by "A Place for Us" from West Side Story, and Hopkins's "Tiffany Twisted," inspired by the Eagles' "Hotel California." VERDICT A perfect addition to school and public libraries-especially useful as a curriculum tie-in or for writing prompts.-Kevin McGuire, Woodland Hills School District, PA

Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

August 1, 2017
Grades 9-12 This anthology of 14 stories and essays reveals the music and musicians that inspired YA authors and musicians. There are, of course, tales of loss, heartbreak, and romance, as well as sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll (Ellen Hopkins), bullying (David Arnold), and the aftermath of an apocalypse (Anthony Breznican). Jonathan Maberry's particularly moving essay discusses how a Bob Dylan song helped him cope with an abusive childhood, while Beth Kephart writes about her childhood as a competitive skater, and how Somewhere (There's a Place for Us), from the musical West Side Story, makes displacement visible and gives hope hope. Other contributors include Donn T, Ellen Oh, and Suzanne Young, with an introduction by singer-songwriter Ameriie. The musicians that inspire them run the gamut from Oasis to Amy Winehouse, Eagles to South Korean girl group 2NE1, and original compositions by James Howe and G. Love are included. Teens will relate to these stories and be inspired by the playlist, even if they are unfamiliar with some of the music.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2017, American Library Association.)