I Am (Not) the Walrus

May 28, 2012
It’s all about girls, rock ’n’ roll, and the sweet mysteries of life in this thoroughly entertaining romp from Briant (Choppy Socky Blues). English teenager Toby’s big dream is to succeed with his Beatles cover band, even though they can’t even decide on a name. Things get complicated when Toby discovers a note hidden inside the vintage Fender bass he borrowed from his brother, which suggests that the instrument was actually stolen. Toby’s life gets even more interesting when he meets Michelle, a cute girl whose prickly disposition doesn’t deter Toby’s interest in her in the slightest. After Toby learns that he may have to move to London, leaving behind both girl and band, he has only a short amount of time in which to woo Michelle, get the perfect gig, and find his guitar’s original owner. Fast-paced, with authentic characters (the chemistry between Toby and Michelle is particularly satisfying) and a general air of good-natured fun, Briant’s story rings true and doesn’t disappoint. If anything, it ends too soon, with some things still left up in the air. Ages 12–up.

May 15, 2012
Toby's life in Port Jackson, England, is frankly weird. This makes it hard to concentrate on his recent good luck: getting his first gig for the unnamed two-man band that only plays Beatles' covers that he has started with best friend Zack. Toby is okay with being atypical, though, his attitude remaining light and carefree despite awkward experiences with girls and rugby. But the use of his older brother's guitar and other band equipment sets up a moral dilemma when Toby begins to slowly realize that all of it may be stolen. Compounding this, an unusual encounter resulting from a dare Zack proposes may lead to romance with Michelle, a feisty female with her own ideas of right and wrong. Briant has an ear for smart-aleck teen talk and keeps the first-person narration crisp. Through Toby's voice, he allows readers to make small leaps of understanding instead of relying on exposition. First love comes into the story sideways, as do entertaining characters; neither sidetracks the plot, which threads all the events together in a steadily satisfying manner. The focus is on romance, character and, above all, music. Even laid-back Toby is captured by the mystique of the Fender bass and the cloud surrounding its provenance. The witty nonchalance of both dialogue and narration keeps this rock-'n'-roll romp light and entertaining and successfully balances it with suspense. (Mystery. 12 & up)

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August 1, 2012

Gr 7-10-In this charming novel, a possibly stolen guitar causes chaos for 16-year-old Toby. He is the singer and bass player in a Beatles cover band and discovers a note inside his absent brother's guitar. As he investigates, he uncovers some hard truths and stumbles into more than one dangerous situation. Meanwhile, he meets a fascinating girl named Michelle who detests him at first sight and attempts to date her, despite some daunting obstacles. Toby's close friendship with bandmate Zach rings true, as does his budding romance with Michelle. Revelations about his brother don't come as a surprise, however, and Shawn's character is not fully developed. Music fans will likely enjoy the musical references. Toby and Zach's ongoing quest to agree on a name for their band is funny, and teens will cheer them on during their first performance. The story occasionally slows, but overall this is an entertaining mix of romance, mystery, music, friendship, and family drama.-Anthony C. Doyle, Livingston High School Library, CA

Copyright 2012 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.