You know what? I enjoyed this book. It's what I'd call a 'popcorn' novel. Cute and witty, this coming of age novel should keep readers who participated in a band (of any sort) engaged. :p ( )

Elise Wyatt has a dream of becoming a great French Horn-player. The only way she can move her dream is if she joins the marching band, but joining the marching band will be social suicide. She has to figure out whether she will follow her dreams or follow the popular girls.

Dionne had me with the 'what the heck is a mellophone' attitude of Elsie Wyatt as she arrives for her first day of marching band camp. A serious French Horn player, Elsie needs another activity on her resume for an audition for a prestigious summer music camp. As a ninth grader, Elsie's single-minded focus seems a little hard core to the kids she's trying to get to know. Some of her angst seemed over the top, but the overall story was very funny and engaging. ( )