Review: Sorta Like a Rock Star by Matthew Quick

Title: Sorta Like a Rock Star
Author: Matthew Quick
Pages: 355
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company
Release Date: May 1, 2010

Amber Appleton lives in a bus. Ever since her mom's boyfriend kicked them out, Amber, her mom, and her totally loyal dog, Bobby Big Boy (aka Thrice B) have been camped out in the back of Hello Yellow (the school bus her mom drives). Still, Amber, the self-proclaimed princess of hope and girl of unyielding optimism, refuses to sweat the bad stuff. But when a fatal tragedy threatens Amber's optimism—and her way of life, can Amber continue to be the rock star of hope? With an oddball cast of characters, and a heartwarming, inspiring story, this novel unveils a beautifully beaten-up world of laughs, loyalty, and hard-earned hope.

My Thoughts: Being homeless and living on a school bus for months doesn't stop Amber Appleton from being optimistic about life. She has her mother, Bobby Big Boy (her dog), friends, and of course, Jesus Christ. But after experiencing a very personal tragedy, Amber's confidence and hope in life breaks. And she begins to suffer through a depression that no one can seem to bring her out of.

I really liked Amber. She was an extremely giving and caring person. She was always looking out for everyone. I couldn't help but to HOPE that everything worked out for her in the end. And I have to say, I liked whenever she would say 'Word' or 'True? True.' It really made her character stand out in my mind, and it made me like her character even more. It was one of the many endearing things about her.

There were two scenes where I got a bit choked up. One was the tragedy that I mentioned before, which was very upsetting. It was something I wasn't expecting just from reading the summary. And although there is a tragedy, this book is filled with moments that make you laugh out loud and moments that are uplifting. Which brings me to the other scene that had me tearing up. It was where everyone came together for Amber. That showed how much everyone cared about and supported Amber and how much she was appreciated and cherished. I smiled and got teary-eyed, and I'm so glad Amber was able to find the strength to pull through.

Sorta Like a Rock Star was a unique, great, and inspiring read. I would recommend it to those looking for a fresh voice in the contemporary genre.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars