Live

George and his friends form the resident school band. An unofficial title but they play all the school gigs and local parties. Tadgh is a frustrated singer, hiding his talent, unsure of himself and unwilling to sing even in front of his family. Jeff and newcomer Beth are looking to start their own band and El Polsk is the domain of Dylan and Carson. In fact, music seems to provide a permanent backbeat to the local secondary school. Days are a whirl of friends, work, home, family – and the usual teenage occupations; but it is all thrown into chaos as tragedy strikes.

An appalling car crash leads to a band member being killed, sending shockwaves through the school community. As the distraught and confused students try to gather themselves and find a way forward, it is Beth who suggests an outlet - a celebration of their lost friend, honouring him with the music he loved. As tempers fray and emotions run high, can the teens pull together and give their missing friend the commemoration he deserves?

Live is a highly engaging read with a multitude of sparky, interesting characters. Music is the thread that holds the story together and it proves to have a meditating effect on the grieving friends. The text message intervals and the playlist at the back of the book help make for an attractive and readable format and there’s a lively pace which should keep readers page-turning.

All in all, another sensitively crafted and entertaining book to follow on from Grow and Play. 

400 pages / Reviewed by Clare Wilkins, school librarian

Suggested Reading Age 14+