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mholtzy's review against another edition
5.0
So Good! Wonderful portrayal of how boys can be sensitive, funny, show platonic love, handle bullying w/humor and insight, dodge and stand up for racism, and so much more. I laughed while being wowed with Mike's handle on this story. It has inspired me to dig into my own quiet, sensitive boyhood to harvest some friendships of my own. Loved it. Keep it up, Mike!
jelyfi's review against another edition
4.0
This one surprised me. At first, I thought it was just trying to check too many boxes with racial diversity, gender roles, bullying, family relationships, and the parents' discussions on "hot button" topics, but it turned out to be a really solid story with great characters. I love Matt and Eric's genuine friendship.
wordnerd153's review against another edition
4.0
Especially loved the modern portrayal of male friendship.
mrwyzlic's review against another edition
5.0
A middle-grade book about drum line, comics, and friendship, with a subplot about acceptance and the nuances of being human? I know, I know, it sounds like this book was written specifically for me. But I’m certain that hundreds of young readers will find themselves in this wonderfully crafted book. This will be a perfect addition to the classroom library.
aus10england's review against another edition
5.0
A beautiful story about soft boys who are also band/comic geeks with themes that address toxic masculinity, homophobia and the power of friendship. I could not put it down! Would for sure lend to any middle-grade reader.
mldavisreads's review against another edition
adventurous
hopeful
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
5.0
Middle grade contemporary realistic fiction. Matt and Eric are best friends and band dorks. But the course of their friendship is altered when Eric finds out he's moving across the country after the school year finishes. Suddenly everything seems bittersweet, because it's the last time they go through the year together. When they find out they are going to World of Amazement for their spring band trip, they are so excited. But when they find out their favorite comic book artist will be at DefenderCon the same week, they set about planning an epic last hurrah. Can two rule-following kids pull off such a rule-breaking adventure?
This book took me right back to my marching band days (but I found it interesting that the marching band was at the middle school- it was only available at the high school level for us). The rapport between the sections and with the band director rang true. We also went on an extended band trip, to Disney World, so the bus and hotel shenanigans seemed pretty accurate too. Besides the general band atmosphere, it was also refreshing to see two boys who were cool with being themselves, even though that was comic-loving not super athletic and occasionally even emotional. Matt and Eric often get ridiculed for being gay, but they themselves see their relationship as more of a brotherly nature. Nice to read a middle grade book with male protagonists.
This book took me right back to my marching band days (but I found it interesting that the marching band was at the middle school- it was only available at the high school level for us). The rapport between the sections and with the band director rang true. We also went on an extended band trip, to Disney World, so the bus and hotel shenanigans seemed pretty accurate too. Besides the general band atmosphere, it was also refreshing to see two boys who were cool with being themselves, even though that was comic-loving not super athletic and occasionally even emotional. Matt and Eric often get ridiculed for being gay, but they themselves see their relationship as more of a brotherly nature. Nice to read a middle grade book with male protagonists.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Homophobia
The two main characters are often teased about being homosexual, though they are not. The two main characters themselves are not homophobic, but several classmates are.caseyjoreads's review against another edition
5.0
SO SO SO SO GOOD! I love this display of boyhood friendship and love, and Jung weaves the tale beautifully.
p. 99 says it all:
"Why are you so weird?"
"I don't know!" Eric said. "Why are you best friends with someone so weird?"
LOVE!
p. 99 says it all:
"Why are you so weird?"
"I don't know!" Eric said. "Why are you best friends with someone so weird?"
LOVE!