Book Review: Guitar Notes by Mary Amato

Guitar Notes by Mary Amato

I just finished reading the book, Guitar Notes, by Mary Amato.  I had never read a book by her,but now I can say, this will not be the last one I pick up. (I actually checked out Get Happy when I went to the library last weekend and can't wait to read it too.)

Summary by Goodreads:

Tripp, who plays guitar only for himself, and Lyla, a cellist whose talent has already made her famous but not happy, form an unlikely friendship when they are forced to share a practice room at their high school.

When I began this book, I thought it might be your typical bad boy/good girl become boyfriend/ girlfriend story.  I was pleasantly surprised that there was more than just that in the plot.  Family pressure, friendship, and a love of music are the themes that run throughout this story.  Tripp can't live up to his mom's expectations and is constantly struggling in school.  Everyone perceives Lyla as perfect and she is having difficulties living up to this image.  Both come together via a few notes and a practice room.  They challenge each other to write music and connect with each other even though others want to keep them apart.

As I was reading more about Mary Amato, I came across The Thrum Society website and found some amazing resources that students and teachers will love.  One thing I did not know was that Mary Amato wrote and recorded all of the songs in the book. They are available for free download here.  If you are looking for a light read, I recommend this one and can't wait to share it with my students.