Offbeat

Summary
Fourteen-year-old Rose is sure she's going to become a folk-music sensation, with her best friend, Shilo, at her side. But first she needs to convince her mom to keep paying for her expensive violin lessons. Her mom wants her to join the youth symphony and focus on classical music, in preparation for a music degree at university. When Rose enters a fiddle competition with a unique prize for the winner, she hopes to show her mom she can really can make it as a folk musician.

CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens | 2019 | Commended

Reviews

"Appealing, accessible story for teens interested in the arts that will tempt them to become avid readers." Kirkus Reviews - June 13, 2018

"Rose's first-person, present-tense narrative is not overwrought with drama, despite the daunting obstacles she faces, and she achieves a convincing new level of maturity. This is a great high/low pick, and the well-paced story and likable characters will have wide appeal." Booklist - September 26, 2018

"The author's understanding of the joys and struggles of a young musician comes across very well in her clear writing. The experiences Clendenan captures in Offbeat give great insight into a subject that is not often shown in literature for young people. Offbeat, a fun and quick read, is a welcome addition to any collection." CM Magazine - July 17, 2018

Get a behind-the-scenes peek at the book on Orca Books' blog HERE!