Review by Christina Clayton -- Band in the Wind
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Christina Clayton
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Review by Christina Clayton -- Band in the Wind
[Following is a volunteer review of "Band in the Wind" by William John Rostron.]
Band In The Wind by John Rostron is an epic musical journey in which we follow a group of teenagers from a racially divided, mafia-controlled, city in New York. With the mid-sixties as the backdrop and "The Music Doctor" providing the soundtrack, we follow Johnny Cipp through the making and breaking of what might have been the greatest band in history. The unlikely friends found each other against all odds, often in unusual places, each with a distinctly different background and upbringing. Strong, silent Bracko. Faithful, committed Joseph. Smooth-talking Jimmy Mac, Vocal God, Gio, and the one who brought them all together, Johnny. As we learn about the lives of these five teenagers, it becomes increasingly apparent why they would choose to lose themselves in the music. It is a great escape. Do yourself a favor, listen to each chapter title track. The music doesn't just enhance the story- it is the story.
My favorite thing about this book is the way the author combined the soundtrack of his life to enrich and immerse the reader into the times and places he was describing. The descriptions of segregation and the daily struggle to not become a part of the cities abundant gang population was palpable. I loved the relationships between the boys and the way so much was understood without words.
My least favorite part of this book was bouncing back and forth between periods. I appreciated reading present-day Johnny's take on the events that occurred in his youth, however, I did get confused in some places. I had hoped for a happier ending as well, but that is merely a personal preference.
Another brilliant sub-plot was the relationship between the band and their former source of torture, Tony. The character of Tony shows what can happen to any drug user at any time and serves as a terrific warning. The only up-side is that Tony became a mascot of sorts to those he once tormented, and within that role, became a much happier person than he had ever been previously.
The girlfriends were also an excellent addition to the story. Each motivating their respective suitor and inspiring music of their own. You'll have to read for yourself to discover which bandmate dared to love a girl from the other side of the line and how that love played out.
I give this book 4 out of 4 stars for taking me on such an amazing musical tour. The book was well written and well-edited. The story was compelling and emotional with a soulful depth. I would recommend this book to any lover of melody and lyrics. Anyone who has dealt with tragedy or drug addiction would also enjoy this book.
******
Band in the Wind
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Band In The Wind by John Rostron is an epic musical journey in which we follow a group of teenagers from a racially divided, mafia-controlled, city in New York. With the mid-sixties as the backdrop and "The Music Doctor" providing the soundtrack, we follow Johnny Cipp through the making and breaking of what might have been the greatest band in history. The unlikely friends found each other against all odds, often in unusual places, each with a distinctly different background and upbringing. Strong, silent Bracko. Faithful, committed Joseph. Smooth-talking Jimmy Mac, Vocal God, Gio, and the one who brought them all together, Johnny. As we learn about the lives of these five teenagers, it becomes increasingly apparent why they would choose to lose themselves in the music. It is a great escape. Do yourself a favor, listen to each chapter title track. The music doesn't just enhance the story- it is the story.
My favorite thing about this book is the way the author combined the soundtrack of his life to enrich and immerse the reader into the times and places he was describing. The descriptions of segregation and the daily struggle to not become a part of the cities abundant gang population was palpable. I loved the relationships between the boys and the way so much was understood without words.
My least favorite part of this book was bouncing back and forth between periods. I appreciated reading present-day Johnny's take on the events that occurred in his youth, however, I did get confused in some places. I had hoped for a happier ending as well, but that is merely a personal preference.
Another brilliant sub-plot was the relationship between the band and their former source of torture, Tony. The character of Tony shows what can happen to any drug user at any time and serves as a terrific warning. The only up-side is that Tony became a mascot of sorts to those he once tormented, and within that role, became a much happier person than he had ever been previously.
The girlfriends were also an excellent addition to the story. Each motivating their respective suitor and inspiring music of their own. You'll have to read for yourself to discover which bandmate dared to love a girl from the other side of the line and how that love played out.
I give this book 4 out of 4 stars for taking me on such an amazing musical tour. The book was well written and well-edited. The story was compelling and emotional with a soulful depth. I would recommend this book to any lover of melody and lyrics. Anyone who has dealt with tragedy or drug addiction would also enjoy this book.
******
Band in the Wind
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Latest Review: The Reel Sisters by Michelle Cummings
