Reviews
There are so many incredible books available at the moment that it is impossible to read them all, no matter how hard I try! Here are my thoughts about some of the books I have read and how I think they could be used in school as well as Q and A sessions with authors and illustrators.
This Song is About Us
As The Kerbs, a four piece band, are on the verge of success, lead singer, Drew, and his long term girlfriend, Ruby, have to decide whether to make their relationship public or to continue in secret. Wanting to maintain their privacy, it seems like an easy decision to make. However, fame comes at a price and Ruby is soon questioning this choice. As Drew- already vulnerable and troubled- faces the challenges of being in the public eye, it seems that their love might not stand the strain.
Told over the course of three music festivals, ‘This Song is About Us’ is told through Ruby’s eyes as Drew and The Kerbs rise to fame. Her relationship with Drew which blossomed under the unlikely conditions of lockdown is intense. Ruby sees the vulnerable side of Drew, who is naturally charming, presenting a carefree face to the world, which hides his troubled upbringing and his need to belong.
Without Ruby’s grounding influence, Drew begins to struggle with the demands of life behind the scenes in the music business, leading to a crisis in their relationship. Already a heavy drinker, Drew’s addition to alcohol and drugs starts to affect his mental health and his friendships within the band. Each character is skilfully nuanced, allowing the reader to empathise with their situation and become invested in them. Moving in places, the story hits hard in others, raising questions about the power and cruelty of social media and the ‘price’ of fame amongst other things.
The friendship between Ruby and Stel is a real joy. Girlfriend to another member of the group, Stel has a very different experience of the band’s fame as she and Lex choose to go public with their relationship. As Ruby watches, she sometimes envies how differently their relationships are playing out, but is glad of Stel’s affectionate company and loyalty throughout.
‘This Song is About Us’ certainly captures the spirit of summer with fun and festivals, but also the pressures of being young and in love. It is a compelling, thoroughly enjoyable read (I could not put it down!) which will leave everyone hoping for a happy ending!
This Song is About Us
Sara Barnard
Walker Books ISBN: 9781529525366