Drum Roll, Please

A Heartwarming Sapphic Middle Grade Tale of Friendship, Music, and Self-Discovery at Summer Camp in Michigan

Lisa Jenn Bigelow

In a world that often feels void of authentic representation, Drum Roll, Please emerges as a vibrant beacon for young readers navigating the complexities of friendship, music, and identity. Lisa Jenn Bigelow masterfully crafts this heartwarming sapphic middle-grade tale, transporting us to the sun-drenched summer camp in Michigan where a symphony of self-discovery resonates throughout the pages. This is not just a story; it's an invitation to embrace one's true self amid the joyous chaos of adolescence.

The life of 12-year-old Melly is relatable on so many levels. A budding musician grappling with her feelings and identity, Melly's journey echoes the struggles of many young people today. Imagine the angst of discovering not just who you are, but who you love. Bigelow's narrative is both tender and raw, allowing readers to experience every note of Melly's emotional crescendo-from the elation of making new friends to the heart-wrenching moments of self-doubt.

Readers have resonated deeply with this narrative, often noting how Bigelow's nuanced portrayal of queer friendships is refreshingly authentic. One poignant comment reflected how the book made the reader reminisce about their own summer camp experiences-a mix of laughter, heartache, and that intoxicating first flutter of young love. Critics have applauded the way Bigelow interlaces musical elements with the narrative, creating a rhythm that echoes the emotional beats of the characters' lives. The music acts as a metaphorical backdrop, much like the soundtrack of our own lives, amplifying every moment, every emotional shift, and every blossoming relationship.

As you delve deeper into this captivating tale, you will find yourself immersed in a world where the fear of being different transforms into a powerful anthem of acceptance. The summer camp setting serves not just as a picturesque backdrop, but as a crucible for growth, where friendships are formed and tested, love is discovered, and the essence of personal identity unfolds.

Readers often share how Drum Roll, Please takes them on an emotional rollercoaster, with laughter echoing through the lightweight prose, counterbalanced by the poignant realizations that linger long after the last page is turned. Some opinions stir controversy, as a few feel that while the story beautifully explores self-discovery, it hints at cliches that are familiar in the genre. However, the overwhelming sentiment favors Bigelow's intimate and genuine storytelling, which dares to be vulnerable when discussing the complexities of love and friendship.

The cultural backdrop of this narrative is essential. In a time where representation in literature is crucial, Bigelow offers a remarkable glimpse into the challenges faced by LGBTQ youth, inviting readers-regardless of their sexual orientation-to empathize and connect. The themes of friendship and music serve as timeless threads that weave through generations, making this book not merely a product of its time but a lasting influence.

Ultimately, Drum Roll, Please is more than a summer camp story; it's a celebration of youth, identity, and the indelible bonds that form through shared experiences. In a climate that often pushes people into boxes of conformity, Bigelow's tale is a clarion call to young readers everywhere: it's okay to stand out, to find your voice, and to love who you choose. So grab your favorite cozy spot, perhaps something sweet to snack on, and dive into this enchanting narrative-you won't want to miss a single note of Melly's transformative summer. 🌈✨️

📖 Drum Roll, Please: A Heartwarming Sapphic Middle Grade Tale of Friendship, Music, and Self-Discovery at Summer Camp in Michigan

✍ by Lisa Jenn Bigelow

🧾 336 pages

2019

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