Thirteen-year-old Hannah Smart only has one thing on her mind after discovering her music idol, Josh Taylor, is giving a New Year’s Eve concert in her town. When her parents decide she needs to pay for her own ticket, Hannah is determined to get herself and her best friend Rachel to the performance. What follows is a lighthearted comedy as Hannah and Rachel try various approaches to achieve their goal, with mixed and often amusing results.
While Hannah initially comes off as shallow and resentful, sulking when her mother refuses to pay for the concert (behaviour perhaps more believable for an 11-year-old than a young teen), she quickly develops into someone with tenacity who is not afraid to admit when she makes mistakes. Her physical awkwardness, empathy, and loyalty to her best friend are endearing, and the premise of her having to work for something she wants imparts a valuable lesson.
Debut author Melody Fitzpatrick’s first book in this new series is a delightful plot-driven tale of perseverance that explores themes of bullying, friendship, persistence, and creative problem-solving. Though her generally optimistic view is challenged by one mean girl in particular, Hannah’s genuine voice and familiar struggles will connect with readers, who will enjoy the character’s dramatic flair and imaginative ideas.