Soundtrack

Gr 7 Up–The prolific Reynolds always packs a big punch in his stories with only a few words, and he has done it again with his latest novel, which was previously published as an audio original. Using a clever, script-style format, the story moves quickly via minimalistic lyrical writing. The novel is told from the perspective of Stuy Grey, an 18-year-old drummer who is navigating a tough home life that he escapes via his passion for music. Stuy forms a band with Dunks, Keith, Alexis, and Frankie—all wicked musicians who also become fast friends. Their band soon becomes a viral sensation, performing in secret pop-up jam sessions across the New York City subway system. But as Stuy’s home life begins to unravel, it causes his friends to jeopardize themselves to protect him. Stuy will need to make some heavy decisions that could destroy the band and the beautiful friendships he has made. This book deftly makes NYC another integral character: the descriptions of the crowds of people and even subway stations show readers what it feels like to grow up in such a vibrant city. Almost all characters are Black, and all are fully developed, interesting people; readers will cheer for their success. Note that the text depicts an abusive home life and character death.