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Playing Through the Turnaround
In a timely, insightful story told with sparkling wit and heart, young musicians protesting plans for budget cuts navigate miscalculations, indifferent adults, and unexpected loss as they discover the power of speaking out and the value of listening.
"A brave and dazzling debut, this timely novel is a blueprint for hope."--Katherine Applegate, Newbery Medalist and best-selling author of The One and Only Ivan
"Keen and clear and fiercely funny."--Linda Sue Park, Newbery Medalist and best-selling author of A Long Walk to Water
"Brilliant, sharp, comic, poignant, and true."-- Gary D. Schmidt, two-time Newbery Honor-winning author of The Wednesday Wars
"A splendid novel filled with honesty and heart."--Karina Yan Glaser, best-selling author of the Vanderbeekers series.
Fifth period is hands down the best time of day in Connor U. Eubanks Middle School, because that's when Mr. Lewis teaches Jazz Lab. So his students are devastated when their beloved teacher quits abruptly. Once they make a connection between budget cuts and Mr. Lewis's disappearance, they hatch a plan: stop the cuts, save their class.
Soon, they become an unlikely band of crusaders, and their quest quickly snowballs into something much bigger--a movement involving the whole middle school. But the adults in charge seem determined to ignore their every protest. How can the kids make themselves heard?
"A brave and dazzling debut, this timely novel is a blueprint for hope."--Katherine Applegate, Newbery Medalist and best-selling author of The One and Only Ivan
"Keen and clear and fiercely funny."--Linda Sue Park, Newbery Medalist and best-selling author of A Long Walk to Water
"Brilliant, sharp, comic, poignant, and true."-- Gary D. Schmidt, two-time Newbery Honor-winning author of The Wednesday Wars
"A splendid novel filled with honesty and heart."--Karina Yan Glaser, best-selling author of the Vanderbeekers series.
Fifth period is hands down the best time of day in Connor U. Eubanks Middle School, because that's when Mr. Lewis teaches Jazz Lab. So his students are devastated when their beloved teacher quits abruptly. Once they make a connection between budget cuts and Mr. Lewis's disappearance, they hatch a plan: stop the cuts, save their class.
Soon, they become an unlikely band of crusaders, and their quest quickly snowballs into something much bigger--a movement involving the whole middle school. But the adults in charge seem determined to ignore their every protest. How can the kids make themselves heard?
272 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2022
About the author
Mylisa Larsen
7 books37 followersMylisa Larsen has been telling stories for a long time. This has caused her to get gimlet-eyed looks from her parents, her siblings and, later, her own children when they felt that certain stories had been embellished beyond acceptable limits. She now writes children’s books where her talents for hyperbole are actually rewarded.
She is the author of the middle grade novels Quagmire Tiarello Couldn't Be Better and Playing Through The Turnaround and the picture books All Of Those Babies, If I Were A Kangaroo, How To Put Your Parents To Bed and Ho Ho Homework.
She has lived in eight states and two countries and has loved things about all of them. The first place she always finds is the library.
You can visit her online at http://mylisalarsen.com
She is the author of the middle grade novels Quagmire Tiarello Couldn't Be Better and Playing Through The Turnaround and the picture books All Of Those Babies, If I Were A Kangaroo, How To Put Your Parents To Bed and Ho Ho Homework.
She has lived in eight states and two countries and has loved things about all of them. The first place she always finds is the library.
You can visit her online at http://mylisalarsen.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
March 10, 2023
This was fantastic, a wonderful (upper) middle grade that touched on so many things but did it well. I loved the music aspects, especially as the story passed between characters and highlighted how they had to work together and listen to each other, not just in jazz band, but in life. Very character driven and I loved these kids by the end. I also appreciated the desire to work for change, even when it is hard.
Weaknesses for me: I had trouble keeping the characters straight at the beginning, probably because I was listening. After picking up the physical copy and really working hard on who was who, I went back to audio and loved it. The parents/adults were pretty disappointing for about 80% of this book, but many developed well and a few teachers were particular standouts.
This almost read like a novel in verse, with short chapters and a story that moved so quickly. Really enjoyed it and highly recommended.
Weaknesses for me: I had trouble keeping the characters straight at the beginning, probably because I was listening. After picking up the physical copy and really working hard on who was who, I went back to audio and loved it. The parents/adults were pretty disappointing for about 80% of this book, but many developed well and a few teachers were particular standouts.
This almost read like a novel in verse, with short chapters and a story that moved so quickly. Really enjoyed it and highly recommended.
February 7, 2024
Didn’t expect to cry my way through the end of this one, but then ⬇️
…Nick knows they have to go. But, because he also knows that sometimes you don’t get another chance to say what you came to say, Nick tells him, “Thanks for teaching us to play.”
I thought it was a really good story that’s great for all ages.
…Nick knows they have to go. But, because he also knows that sometimes you don’t get another chance to say what you came to say, Nick tells him, “Thanks for teaching us to play.”
I thought it was a really good story that’s great for all ages.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2022
Richie’s Picks: PLAYING THROUGH THE TURNAROUND by Mylisa Larsen, Clarion, October 2022, 272p., ISBN: 978-0-35-864549-8
“Music is what we like to play
All day all day all day all day all day
To soothe your soul, yeah”
– War (1971)
“...[T]he research finds that increases in [public school] spending lead to improved student outcomes, ranging from test scores, to graduation, to college attendance, to adult earnings and poverty.
These findings hold across a variety of studies and settings in the United States. Notably, dollar-per-dollar effects are larger for low-income students. Effects are also larger and more consistently positive with operational spending—teachers, support staff, materials—than for spending on facilities…”
– Public Policy Institute of California, “Understanding the Effects of School Funding” (2022)
Cassie [back in fourth grade]:
“The last guy got up with a saxophone. He looked like a grandpa–deep wrinkles traced through his brown skin and hair all white–but a fierce grandpa. Like maybe a grandpa who was a little mad at them for something. Didn’t make jokes or talk to them in that super-friendly voice that grownups use on kids when they want them to be on their side. Just glared until everybody shut up. Didn’t need to say a thing. Cassie was impressed.
Then he played the longest and sweetest note.
It started out soft like a whisper. But richer. Then it washed out over the room like sunshine. It went on and on and on. If that happened now, Cassie would know that he was using circular breathing, But no one in that room had heard of that back then. Everyone thought he was holding his breath that long. Cassie sure did.
Eyes got wider and wider. Charlie forgot about disassembling his chair. A ‘No way’ came from someone behind Cassie. Cassie could feel something inside her expanding, expanding, expanding, even as she wondered how on earth this grandpa could not need the world’s largest breath. And just when she was sure that the guy was going to pass out dead on the music room floor, he launched into these notes that were like a beating heart–percussive, deep, rhythmic. Then he sped it up till it was more like a heart attack. Then flicked notes like pebbles being skipped across still water. After that came a part that was like the worst argument Cassie had ever had with her dad.
And then. Then he was playing a scream. Like he’d put up with something so long that he couldn’t stand it one second longer. So he went out on the porch in front of his house and screamed until the birds flew out of the trees and the streetlights shattered.
Then silence.”
Lily [now, in eighth grade]:
“Lily remembers a day when she was little, maybe three or something, when, sun warm on her shoulders, she spent the whole afternoon jumping off the dock behind her house. She'd run and jump, and her dad would catch her and swim her back to the dock. Then she’d run and jump again. Again. Again. It never occurred to her that he might not catch her. She wasn’t scared to fling herself as far out over the shining water as she could.
Now she knows that you can’t always trust that. Now she knows that people can get distracted or busy. Or maybe decide that you should learn to swim back on your own. She’s not sure what happened with her dad. But she knows you have to be careful about jumping. She’s not three anymore.
But Mr. Lewis’s class is different. He makes it different. Safer than the rest of the world somehow while still being exciting.
Now, more than half a year into Jazz Lab, it can feel like that sunny dock some days. It can feel like she can close her eyes and fling herself out over the sea of silvery notes, arms windmilling through the air in the sheer joy of jumping.”
PLAYING THROUGH THE TURNAROUND is a coming-of-age story featuring six young people. All but one are talented young musicians who have auditioned into the school’s eighth grade Jazz Lab class. It’s taught by legendary, beyond-retirement-aged Mr. Lewis, and completion of the class guarantees each of these kids a spot next year in Mr. Lewis’s high school jazz ensemble.
As they learn to collaborate in the art of jazz improvisation, friendships develop and grow in the process. There are many wonderful scenes depicting the sometimes complicated interrelationships.
Then everything goes wrong. “Fiscal responsibility” rears its political head and threatens to eliminate many of their school district’s elective classes. Then Mr. Lewis is suddenly gone. The friends now join together as newly minted activists to try to save the threatened classes and secure Mr. Lewis’s return.
Alternating between the voices and points of view of the six characters, PLAYING THROUGH THE TURNAROUND provides a vivid characterization of each of these young people. From the beginning, each student character is quite rounded and distinctive. Dealing with family problems, bullies, and the unreasonable school principal, they are all fascinating and unique people. They are amazing, amusing, and passionate.
And when cornered, one of them can even break a nose.
The evidence is abundant that the long-run costs to society and taxpayers of undereducated grownups far exceed the money “saved” by politically-charged school budget austerity measures. Given the complexities and world-threatening challenges to be inherited by today’s upcoming generations, it would make more sense to establish universal public school Pre-K classes and free public community colleges. Sure, it means some more funding but, given the future stakes, I put my money on well-educated young people. The alternative is a penny-wise/pound-foolish mistake.
Whatever your favorite band or your ideas on school budgets, PLAYING THROUGH THE TURNAROUND is a winner.
Richie Partington, MLIS
Richie's Picks http://richiespicks.pbworks.com
https://www.facebook.com/richiespicks/
[email protected]
“Music is what we like to play
All day all day all day all day all day
To soothe your soul, yeah”
– War (1971)
“...[T]he research finds that increases in [public school] spending lead to improved student outcomes, ranging from test scores, to graduation, to college attendance, to adult earnings and poverty.
These findings hold across a variety of studies and settings in the United States. Notably, dollar-per-dollar effects are larger for low-income students. Effects are also larger and more consistently positive with operational spending—teachers, support staff, materials—than for spending on facilities…”
– Public Policy Institute of California, “Understanding the Effects of School Funding” (2022)
Cassie [back in fourth grade]:
“The last guy got up with a saxophone. He looked like a grandpa–deep wrinkles traced through his brown skin and hair all white–but a fierce grandpa. Like maybe a grandpa who was a little mad at them for something. Didn’t make jokes or talk to them in that super-friendly voice that grownups use on kids when they want them to be on their side. Just glared until everybody shut up. Didn’t need to say a thing. Cassie was impressed.
Then he played the longest and sweetest note.
It started out soft like a whisper. But richer. Then it washed out over the room like sunshine. It went on and on and on. If that happened now, Cassie would know that he was using circular breathing, But no one in that room had heard of that back then. Everyone thought he was holding his breath that long. Cassie sure did.
Eyes got wider and wider. Charlie forgot about disassembling his chair. A ‘No way’ came from someone behind Cassie. Cassie could feel something inside her expanding, expanding, expanding, even as she wondered how on earth this grandpa could not need the world’s largest breath. And just when she was sure that the guy was going to pass out dead on the music room floor, he launched into these notes that were like a beating heart–percussive, deep, rhythmic. Then he sped it up till it was more like a heart attack. Then flicked notes like pebbles being skipped across still water. After that came a part that was like the worst argument Cassie had ever had with her dad.
And then. Then he was playing a scream. Like he’d put up with something so long that he couldn’t stand it one second longer. So he went out on the porch in front of his house and screamed until the birds flew out of the trees and the streetlights shattered.
Then silence.”
Lily [now, in eighth grade]:
“Lily remembers a day when she was little, maybe three or something, when, sun warm on her shoulders, she spent the whole afternoon jumping off the dock behind her house. She'd run and jump, and her dad would catch her and swim her back to the dock. Then she’d run and jump again. Again. Again. It never occurred to her that he might not catch her. She wasn’t scared to fling herself as far out over the shining water as she could.
Now she knows that you can’t always trust that. Now she knows that people can get distracted or busy. Or maybe decide that you should learn to swim back on your own. She’s not sure what happened with her dad. But she knows you have to be careful about jumping. She’s not three anymore.
But Mr. Lewis’s class is different. He makes it different. Safer than the rest of the world somehow while still being exciting.
Now, more than half a year into Jazz Lab, it can feel like that sunny dock some days. It can feel like she can close her eyes and fling herself out over the sea of silvery notes, arms windmilling through the air in the sheer joy of jumping.”
PLAYING THROUGH THE TURNAROUND is a coming-of-age story featuring six young people. All but one are talented young musicians who have auditioned into the school’s eighth grade Jazz Lab class. It’s taught by legendary, beyond-retirement-aged Mr. Lewis, and completion of the class guarantees each of these kids a spot next year in Mr. Lewis’s high school jazz ensemble.
As they learn to collaborate in the art of jazz improvisation, friendships develop and grow in the process. There are many wonderful scenes depicting the sometimes complicated interrelationships.
Then everything goes wrong. “Fiscal responsibility” rears its political head and threatens to eliminate many of their school district’s elective classes. Then Mr. Lewis is suddenly gone. The friends now join together as newly minted activists to try to save the threatened classes and secure Mr. Lewis’s return.
Alternating between the voices and points of view of the six characters, PLAYING THROUGH THE TURNAROUND provides a vivid characterization of each of these young people. From the beginning, each student character is quite rounded and distinctive. Dealing with family problems, bullies, and the unreasonable school principal, they are all fascinating and unique people. They are amazing, amusing, and passionate.
And when cornered, one of them can even break a nose.
The evidence is abundant that the long-run costs to society and taxpayers of undereducated grownups far exceed the money “saved” by politically-charged school budget austerity measures. Given the complexities and world-threatening challenges to be inherited by today’s upcoming generations, it would make more sense to establish universal public school Pre-K classes and free public community colleges. Sure, it means some more funding but, given the future stakes, I put my money on well-educated young people. The alternative is a penny-wise/pound-foolish mistake.
Whatever your favorite band or your ideas on school budgets, PLAYING THROUGH THE TURNAROUND is a winner.
Richie Partington, MLIS
Richie's Picks http://richiespicks.pbworks.com
https://www.facebook.com/richiespicks/
[email protected]
December 16, 2022
Students protest school cuts, favorite teacher dies, unlikely students become friends
January 9, 2023
A few quibbles about inclusivity but otherwise an enjoyable and touching story.
May 18, 2023
A high note of a book and a master class on how to write a multiple POV story. This cast of engaging, sympathetic characters is going to stay with me for a long, long time. An absolute "don't-miss."
October 25, 2022
I love books that celebrate the arts and celebrate arts education! Having the opportunity to pursue music in school had such a big impact on my life, and I loved being able to read a narrative that celebrates and teaches audiences about the role an arts education can play in the lives of students. However, at some times, it felt like there was too much going on in this book; there were so many perspectives and so many personal stories, that I finished reading feeling like there were some characters I wished I had gotten the opportunity to learn more about.
But it's not a review from me if there weren't some tiny things that were bothering me while I was reading, but I think I had only because I work in a school/took music classes in school, including: Why wasn't Jazz Lab temporarily absorbed into the other band classes? Why didn't they talk to the other band teacher/other fine arts teachers at their school about saving the arts?? Why is the other band teacher just not mentioned at all, even though there had to have been one???
Overall, I recommend this book, especially for readers who are interested in music and the fine arts. I've never played in a jazz band, so there could be some factual errors I missed, but I think this book does a great job being entertaining and thought-provoking, all while advocating for the arts in schools.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
But it's not a review from me if there weren't some tiny things that were bothering me while I was reading, but I think I had only because I work in a school/took music classes in school, including: Why wasn't Jazz Lab temporarily absorbed into the other band classes? Why didn't they talk to the other band teacher/other fine arts teachers at their school about saving the arts?? Why is the other band teacher just not mentioned at all, even though there had to have been one???
Overall, I recommend this book, especially for readers who are interested in music and the fine arts. I've never played in a jazz band, so there could be some factual errors I missed, but I think this book does a great job being entertaining and thought-provoking, all while advocating for the arts in schools.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 30, 2024
I really liked the book. I really enjoyed it. There were a few minor things that I did not like. One towards the beginning I was trying to figure out who was who on the cover and I couldn't figure it out. Also I wish there would have been more with Jake and lilly. Also I feel like Quagmire and Cassie could have at least been good friends by the end. Also I don't understand why they shaved their heads. I feel like that part just was not necessary but I mean the other readers might find it more necessary. I also feel like them getting the Mr. Lewis story wrong also wasn't necessary and I feel like the story could have gone on without them thinking he quit. I also feel like the author could have told us more about the meeting. But besides that I thought it was a really good book
4.5
4.5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2024
This was a great book about kids finding their voices. As a parent and former educator, I thought the message about adults not listening was poignant. Loved their fight for the arts. And I actually liked that the author didn’t tie up everything neatly at the end with a happy ending. Very realistic and moving.
October 2, 2023
A really great quick-read that very well covers the unfortunate circumstances of that arts not receiving funding from schools. I personally connect with this story because my school doesn’t give a single cent to hair arts programs. Definitely recommend reading.
May 22, 2024
Was not expecting that ending 🥺
July 11, 2024
I expected to like this book because I was a band kid. I did not expect to feel so many emotions and shed a couple of tears at how sweet this book is. What a delight. Highly recommend!
October 30, 2022
Such a great middle grade read. Highly recommend!
November 16, 2022
The students of the Jazz Lab Club, Jake, Cassie, Lily, Mac and Nick, are devasted when their well-
loved teacher abruptly leaves the school. When the students hear a rumor that Mr. Lewis left because of budget cuts, they start a petition to save their Jazz Lab Club and other extra curriculars.
reviewer 22
Read
April 27, 2022I haven't cried while reading a book in quite awhile but this middle reader moved me to tears. In alternating voices, Larsen tells the story of six 8th graders, their jazz band teacher and the implementation of their bold idea to save the school system from eliminating all the extras (jazz band, chess club, etc) that build community and make school tolerable for so many. The kids find their individual voices as they work together to find their Voice. The novel is reminiscent of Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea but has a unique sparkle all its own. I loved it. It will be published in August - I can't wait to start selling it.
August 19, 2022
Larsen takes on a subject that will be deeply understood by young teens and frames it through a story that is distinctly different but extremely timely. I've wavered between 4 and 5 stars on this because of a slow build up that felt a bit too prolonged and might lose a few readers. The story really gains momentum at slightly more than the halfway mark and from then on it is impossible to put down.
A group of students who haven't all traveled in the same social circles, come together in an audition-based elective, Jazz Lab. It is a musical experience guided by an extraordinary teacher that changes the students and their appreciation of each other and of the music they play.When the teacher abruptly leaves and rumors of school budget cuts circulate, the group decides to unite to save their class. As their battle against an uncaring principal and school board escalates, the teens discover that many of them are struggling with the same basic issue at home, the adults in their lives do not listen to them or take their ideas and wishes seriously. This is a theme that will truly resonate with young readers and their actions both at the political levels and the personal levels are compelling to follow.
One of the major highlights of this book is the character development. Larsen has crafted 5 vivid and distinct individuals here and the characters truly carry the story. Told in alternating chapters, each voice is strong and authentic, revealing vulnerabilities and growing strengths. The resolution is somewhat ambiguous but readers will come away confident that this group of teens will move on together, providing support and deep friendship to each other.
This is a debut novel and I was really impressed with Larsen's writing. She frames her story with a somewhat unusual setting and one that is welcome. The uniting theme of the book and the endearing and authentic voices make this truly something special.
A group of students who haven't all traveled in the same social circles, come together in an audition-based elective, Jazz Lab. It is a musical experience guided by an extraordinary teacher that changes the students and their appreciation of each other and of the music they play.When the teacher abruptly leaves and rumors of school budget cuts circulate, the group decides to unite to save their class. As their battle against an uncaring principal and school board escalates, the teens discover that many of them are struggling with the same basic issue at home, the adults in their lives do not listen to them or take their ideas and wishes seriously. This is a theme that will truly resonate with young readers and their actions both at the political levels and the personal levels are compelling to follow.
One of the major highlights of this book is the character development. Larsen has crafted 5 vivid and distinct individuals here and the characters truly carry the story. Told in alternating chapters, each voice is strong and authentic, revealing vulnerabilities and growing strengths. The resolution is somewhat ambiguous but readers will come away confident that this group of teens will move on together, providing support and deep friendship to each other.
This is a debut novel and I was really impressed with Larsen's writing. She frames her story with a somewhat unusual setting and one that is welcome. The uniting theme of the book and the endearing and authentic voices make this truly something special.
April 5, 2024
I know that middle school kids can experience music the way these kids do because it happened to me. I was always a musician, or at least it feels that way: I've been playing violin since I turned five. But it is a moment in 7th grade that sticks with me to this day. I had made the top orchestra at All State, and it was my first time playing in a full orchestra with winds and brass and everything in between. And at the concert, as we finished Leonard Bernstein's "Overture to Candide", something happened. In that space between the final note and the applause, I felt this incredible warmth, a warmth that started right at my heart and spread throughout me, all the way to the tips of my fingers. I knew I had to do whatever it took to feel that again. And I did! Because I had joined the school band a year prior (no school orchestras where I lived), and that changed my life forever. I was one of Those Band Kids. It was everything to me, and I would make sacrifices at every turn to keep it that way. I went from a middle schooler whose feet couldn't touch the bandroom floor to a young adult about to start my master's degree in oboe performance. But it has to start somewhere. It might start in private lessons or it might start in a school choir class or it might start at an instrument petting zoo or it might start... in a jazz combo lab. A middle schooler is old enough to know what in their life is worth fighting for, and if you disagree, take it up with my pigtailed and pasteled self that fateful day on the All State stage.
November 9, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley, author Mylisa Larsen, and Clarion Books for providing me with a free ARC in exchange for my honest review!
I was excited for this book because I was in band in junior high, and it is nice to see representation in MG books for more "artsy" kids! Sadly, this book did not fully live up to my expectations. I thought the overall messaging of standing up for what you believe in through the lens of supporting the arts in schools was well-done and important for young students to read. I liked seeing each of the characters' confidence grow as the book progressed and realizing that they all had their own voices they can use. However, my biggest issue with Playing Through the Turnaround was all of the perspectives. The book follows 5 main characters that alternate chapters from each perspective. The chapters were very short with many being only 2 or 3 pages, which made the book feel extremely choppy. It was hard to connect with each character because there was not enough space or length to get a full picture of all 5 characters. The chapters were written in third person, which also made me feel held at arm's length from fully getting the characters' perspective. The writing felt repetitive and choppy, and I felt myself confused at times on who's chapter I was reading. Ultimately, this book had great ideas with poor execution, but I do feel like this book could be enjoyed by middle grade readers who are looking for something fun to read.
I was excited for this book because I was in band in junior high, and it is nice to see representation in MG books for more "artsy" kids! Sadly, this book did not fully live up to my expectations. I thought the overall messaging of standing up for what you believe in through the lens of supporting the arts in schools was well-done and important for young students to read. I liked seeing each of the characters' confidence grow as the book progressed and realizing that they all had their own voices they can use. However, my biggest issue with Playing Through the Turnaround was all of the perspectives. The book follows 5 main characters that alternate chapters from each perspective. The chapters were very short with many being only 2 or 3 pages, which made the book feel extremely choppy. It was hard to connect with each character because there was not enough space or length to get a full picture of all 5 characters. The chapters were written in third person, which also made me feel held at arm's length from fully getting the characters' perspective. The writing felt repetitive and choppy, and I felt myself confused at times on who's chapter I was reading. Ultimately, this book had great ideas with poor execution, but I do feel like this book could be enjoyed by middle grade readers who are looking for something fun to read.
June 6, 2022
I recieved an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair review.
I really wanted to like this book, from the start. As a band kid who played saxophones in Jazz band and a music teacher, the cover pulled me in. At first, though, it was a little slow going. Giving each character a seemingly disjointed chapter, switching focus with each, made it hard to follow. And that concerned me, because if I was struggling a bit, how much more would a middle grades reader do so? However,in many ways, that's the beauty of this book. Just as Jazz builds in layers by layers comong together as a whole, so does the story as the characters interweave. This book has a satisfactory climax, but not a satisfactory conclusion, making it extremely realistic, because often life is like that.
Overall this is an excellent book, which will especially appeal to musicians and other kids with less popular activities. I do not think it is necessarily the best choice for struggling readers due to the relatively slow start.
I really wanted to like this book, from the start. As a band kid who played saxophones in Jazz band and a music teacher, the cover pulled me in. At first, though, it was a little slow going. Giving each character a seemingly disjointed chapter, switching focus with each, made it hard to follow. And that concerned me, because if I was struggling a bit, how much more would a middle grades reader do so? However,in many ways, that's the beauty of this book. Just as Jazz builds in layers by layers comong together as a whole, so does the story as the characters interweave. This book has a satisfactory climax, but not a satisfactory conclusion, making it extremely realistic, because often life is like that.
Overall this is an excellent book, which will especially appeal to musicians and other kids with less popular activities. I do not think it is necessarily the best choice for struggling readers due to the relatively slow start.
March 15, 2023
This one is for the music educators in public schools, for the middle school band geeks, for the young activists. A small group of eighth graders who find their only true refuge for the day in their Jazz Lab class learns that their program might be on the school budget chopping block, and they stop at nothing to try and save it. In a time of unprecedented book banning efforts and discussions surrounding what should and should not be included in curriculums across the country, this story is a powerful reminder that kids understand more than we give them credit for, and deserve a say in their own education.
I recommend this to middle school readers who like stories in a school setting with a fast pace.
I recommend this to middle school readers who like stories in a school setting with a fast pace.
June 9, 2023
What is worth standing up for? How far would you go to fight for change and make sure your voice is heard? This story is narrated by each member of Jazz Lab in alternating chapters. Allowing the reader to learn more about the personal struggles they are going though, but more importantly to hear their voice and show us how far they are willing to go to save the job of thier favorite teacher. While at the same time working to ensure small groups beloved by classmates aren’t next on the chopping block due to budget cuts.
They learn things don’t always go as planned but in the end something even more valuable is gained.
“ It’s gonna be okay. Because we’re all here and we’ll play through, and we’ll find what comes next. just like Mr. Lewis taught us.”
August 8, 2023
I didn't know much about this one when I picked it up, but it's full of humor and heart (I even needed some tissues there at the end). Reminiscent of Because of Mr. Terupt and The Unteachables, this story follows five students in a special music class (Jazz Lab) plus one notorious troublemaker as they tell a story about finding your voice and doing what's right--even when it's hard. An absolute treasure.
February 15, 2023
The kids in Jazz Lab, by far their favorite class, come together in ways they never thought possible when the teacher, Mr. Lewis quits. They believe this is because of pending budget cuts that include Jazz Lab and other non-essential classes the admins believe are unneeded. Each character layers with the others like a musical ensemble, but each gets their solo in varying chapters and demand the page with their voices, even those that aren't in Jazz Lab directly. These kids band together in unexpected ways to have their voices heard as the admins, teachers, and their parents don't really listen to what they want or need. Well worth the read.
September 17, 2024
It was slow to start with all the characters being introduced, but I really liked this. In particular, I really appreciated the different kids starting to talk to each other and find things in common and the way some of the kids wrestled with the protest as "rule followers" who wanted to do the right thing and respect authority, but weren't sure if they could do both.
There were some brief mentions of crushes and one romantically charged scene with a brief touch. A relatable book to many types of middle schoolers, but especially to band kids.
Recommend for the middle school crowd that like realistic fiction. It is emotional, but not as heavy with social problems as some.
There were some brief mentions of crushes and one romantically charged scene with a brief touch. A relatable book to many types of middle schoolers, but especially to band kids.
Recommend for the middle school crowd that like realistic fiction. It is emotional, but not as heavy with social problems as some.
July 12, 2023
Could there really be such a collection of extremely talented musicians in a middle school? Or such a collection of dysfunctional families and administrators? That’s more likely than the musicians. But these are minor quibbles. This novel conveys the importance of the arts in school, and somehow manages to make the reader understand how music, specifically jazz, feels to the musician. And how important it is for the adults in kids’ lives to listen to them.
I would imagine any kid reading this will identify.
I would imagine any kid reading this will identify.
December 7, 2022
ARC provided by Follett First Look
Middle school can be challenging, but for Jake and his group of friends, Jazz Lab every Tuesday is what makes the rest of their educational experience bearable. Jake has to deal with one aunt who is getting married and forcing him to wear rose print socks, and another who is running for school board on a platform of fiscal responsiblity. He also has to deal with uber jock cousin Peyton. Cassie loves playing saxophone, and usually is able to stand up for herself and for others, including the shy Lily, whose parents are very demanding. Mac and Nick also enjoy being in the Jazz Lab, but Quentin "Quagmire" Tiarello is not in the group; he tries to fly well under everyone's radar and the teachers all know not to call on him in class. The inscrutable old Ms. Harken manages to finagle him against his will into helping with the tech crew. When Mr. Lewis doesn't show up for Jazz Lab, the group worries that the course is going to be cut, and they gather signatures on a petition to give to Principal Deming. When the ecology club finds their document in the trash, unopened, they switch into high gear and approach the school board about cutting groups that don't affect a lot of students. They don't get any joy there, so with the help of Quagmire, plan a protest at the upcoming band concert. The children all have their own issues that require attention, but all feel that Jazz Lab is worth saving, even when additional information about Mr. Lewis' absence becomes available. Will they be able to convince the school that more learning occurs in Jazz Lab than might occur in classes that help prepare them for tests?
Strengths: There are a lot of good, funny lines as well as amusing situations. I'm always a fan of "kids who do things", and there are not a lot of books about children in band, even though there are still a decent amount of band programs around. We've even had jazz as an after school club in my school.
Weaknesses: This was more character driven than plot driven, and felt a bit like Because of Mr. Terupt, especially with the plot surrounding Mr. Lewis. There were some details of the private lives of the children that weren't tied up by the end. It seemed unrealistic that students would have been able to save the Jazz Lab class. When districts need to make budget cuts, art, gym, and music are always the first to go, followed very closely by the library. I'm a little surprised every day that I still have a job to go to after several rounds of cuts in my district over the last twenty years.
What I really think: Hand to fans of Nichol's Matthew Meets the Man (2012), Grosso's I Am Drums (2016), Dionne's Notes from An Accidental Band Geek (2011), and Dominy's Audition and Subtractions (2012), or students who are interested in social activism.
Middle school can be challenging, but for Jake and his group of friends, Jazz Lab every Tuesday is what makes the rest of their educational experience bearable. Jake has to deal with one aunt who is getting married and forcing him to wear rose print socks, and another who is running for school board on a platform of fiscal responsiblity. He also has to deal with uber jock cousin Peyton. Cassie loves playing saxophone, and usually is able to stand up for herself and for others, including the shy Lily, whose parents are very demanding. Mac and Nick also enjoy being in the Jazz Lab, but Quentin "Quagmire" Tiarello is not in the group; he tries to fly well under everyone's radar and the teachers all know not to call on him in class. The inscrutable old Ms. Harken manages to finagle him against his will into helping with the tech crew. When Mr. Lewis doesn't show up for Jazz Lab, the group worries that the course is going to be cut, and they gather signatures on a petition to give to Principal Deming. When the ecology club finds their document in the trash, unopened, they switch into high gear and approach the school board about cutting groups that don't affect a lot of students. They don't get any joy there, so with the help of Quagmire, plan a protest at the upcoming band concert. The children all have their own issues that require attention, but all feel that Jazz Lab is worth saving, even when additional information about Mr. Lewis' absence becomes available. Will they be able to convince the school that more learning occurs in Jazz Lab than might occur in classes that help prepare them for tests?
Strengths: There are a lot of good, funny lines as well as amusing situations. I'm always a fan of "kids who do things", and there are not a lot of books about children in band, even though there are still a decent amount of band programs around. We've even had jazz as an after school club in my school.
Weaknesses: This was more character driven than plot driven, and felt a bit like Because of Mr. Terupt, especially with the plot surrounding Mr. Lewis. There were some details of the private lives of the children that weren't tied up by the end. It seemed unrealistic that students would have been able to save the Jazz Lab class. When districts need to make budget cuts, art, gym, and music are always the first to go, followed very closely by the library. I'm a little surprised every day that I still have a job to go to after several rounds of cuts in my district over the last twenty years.
What I really think: Hand to fans of Nichol's Matthew Meets the Man (2012), Grosso's I Am Drums (2016), Dionne's Notes from An Accidental Band Geek (2011), and Dominy's Audition and Subtractions (2012), or students who are interested in social activism.
January 2, 2023
Strong voices, writing that pulls you in, characters that connect, and a drive to be heard, really heard, really listened to. This is a powerful reminder to adults who work with students that people all have more going on than you might see and that learning to hear people as they really are is an amazing thing. And then going another step to then support others in however they need creates an amazing community. I will have to read this one again someday.
February 7, 2023
This book was fabulous! The pacing was great - to tell an exciting story in 6 voices is not an easy feat and Larsen did it with humor and heart. You are invested in all the characters - kids and adults and care what happens to them. There are some fun subplots too, You absolutely don't have to be a jazz geek or a band nerd to like this story but if you are or know someone who is get this book immediately!
February 15, 2023
A tour-de-force of cooperation. Depicts so much of the middle school experience spread across a group of 6 very different individuals who come together in Jazz Lab. As they learn to listen and sense each other in music, circumstances at school cause them to unite and lead other school groups in communicating to the administration.
So glad we didn't have to endure a meeting with the principal as threatened after the "uprising." The ending was oh, so right.
So glad we didn't have to endure a meeting with the principal as threatened after the "uprising." The ending was oh, so right.
April 12, 2023
This was fine. There is some sadness and some outrage and some injustice and some learning a person is more than you thought at first. I didn't feel that the characterization was that strong; it was hard to keep all of the male characters separated in my mind. Kids on a mission, kids dealing with mystery and grief and the social hierarchy.
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