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Description
Gerri waits outside all night to audition for Big Time, her favorite TV singing competition.
She believes she has a shot at success, but when she’s insulted by one of the judges and kicked out of the competition, she thinks she’ll probably never sing again. After a teacher at her school asks her to join a choral club, Gerri reluctantly gets involved. Even though she can’t read music and she doesn’t know the other kids, she finds herself enjoying the group and learning a lot about music. A cute guy she met at the Big Time auditions joins the group, and when they perform their unique mashups at an open-mic night, Gerri realizes there’s more than one way to be a successful—and happy—singer!
This short novel is a high-interest, low-reading level book for middle-grade readers who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don’t like to read!
Contributor Notes
Tom Ryan was born and raised in Inverness on Cape Breton Island. He once sat in line overnight to audition for a televised singing competition, only to be told that he was potentially the most boring performer in the world. Ouch. He lives in Ottawa, Ontario, with his partner and dog. Big Time is his fourth book
Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels
- Age:
- 9 to 12
- Grade:
- 4 to 7
- Reading age:
- 9 to 12
Awards
- Commended, Junior Library Guild (JLG) Gold Standard Selection
- Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens
Editorial Reviews
"A believable and instructive story about art and life."
— Resource Links
"Readers will want to ride along for the high hopes and disappointments, as well as the self-discovery that is part of Gerri’s journey to embrace and polish her talent."
— Publishers Weekly
"I would recommend this book, due to its stellar characters and unique concept. Performing arts novels are quite rare after all!"
— Bookish Serendipity
"A feel-good story that is all about a love of music and following one’s dreams."
— CM: Canadian Review of Materials
"Readers who have a musical interest will appreciate Gerri’s musical journey. It’s also refreshing to read about Gerri’s family that is extremely supportive of her dreams but realistic. Music brings generations together in this novel. The Limelights series promises readers a quick, interesting read and this book delivers."
— Southwestern Ohio Young Adult Materials Review Group (SOYAMRG)
