Strings Attached

by Diane Dakers

Is being successful worth losing a friend?

Brielle has to step into the position of principal cellist when her friend Tawni is injured. She’s terrified. Is she good enough? Will the other musicians accept her? What if she screws up?

Despite her fears, Brielle rises to the occasion, and she quickly begins to excel in her new role. But then Tawni returns. And she wants her job back. If Brielle steps down now, she’ll lose her place in the spotlight. But if she doesn’t, she may lose her best friend.

Genres: Young Adult

144 pages, Paperback

First published February 21, 2017

Reviews

[Anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

A hi-lo book for music lovers, particularly those who enjoy orchestral instruments and settings. Not sure how much of a draw that will be for most hi-lo readers, however. (I know, very stereotypical of me, I know. But based on my experience, still true.)

Brielle and her best friend Tawni both are passionate about playing the cello in their youth orchestra. Tawni is first chair and Brielle is second; this works well for both girls. However, when Tawni injures her wrist, Brielle is asked to step up temporarily. She is then in a bit of a quandary as she finds that she really enjoys being first chair and doesn't want to have to give it up when Tawni is recovered from her injury.

[Sheri Radford · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting YA novel about a girl who wants to be a cellist, but doesn't want to lose her best friend in the process. It portrays competition and stage fright in a realistic way. I also greatly enjoyed the relationship between the protagonist and her occasionally protective, occasionally infuriating brother.