What do you think?
Rate this book
The Rock ‘n’ Roll Diaries #1
Making It
When Burt decides he must start a rock band to win the love of Bex, he is forced to assemble a quartet of teenage opposites. The RockAteers are born. It must work, and not just for Burt’s sake. Egg has spent his life on the outside looking in, Tea needs to evade a tough future and Clipper wants more than a fast track to football academy. When Egg reveals his song-writing genius, the only way is up… But can they function as a band?
Who will win the race to sign them? And who will win the girl?
Who will win the race to sign them? And who will win the girl?
- GenresMusicYoung Adult
179 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 16, 2013
9 people are currently reading
121 people want to read
About the author
Jamie Scallion
8 books80 followersJamie Scallion grew up in South London. He started a rock band at school and as lead singer of a cult London band for twelve years he toured the world, playing with some of the biggest names in the music industry. He wrote The Rock 'n' Roll Diaries whilst on the road.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
January 17, 2014
I love this book so much.
It's full of fun highs and lows.
It's written amazing and Jamie should be so proud of it.
If u love music then u should read this book, I can't wait for book 2 to come out.
It's full of fun highs and lows.
It's written amazing and Jamie should be so proud of it.
If u love music then u should read this book, I can't wait for book 2 to come out.
July 23, 2016
An hilarious and enticing read that draws you into the journey of the characters. You truly feel like part of the gang and it's very easy to visualise the scene. The writing is comedic brilliance and truly heartwarming in places :) go grab a copy or download now before the next installment...
February 1, 2014
'Making it' by Jamie Scallion is a gripping and engaging book which personally, I thoroughly enjoyed reading and managed to finish it so soon I've started to read it again!
The book explores the start of journey of four teenage boys living in London trying to make it as a band. The contrast been each character is particularly engaging and gives the book a real twist to it!
Burt Winsor - a typical 15/16 year old lad, good-looking and considerably over-confident. All he wants is the girl of his dreams and starting a band is the start of getting that but little did he know, it was one of the best decisions he ever made.
There's Egg/Edward Poacher - shy, ginger, can play any instrument he picks up, but completely invisible amongst his classmates until he shows his true talent by joining a band.
Clipper/Justin Liam Clipper - at first sight, a strong, hardcore-looking footballer, un-beatable in every fight but underneath another side of him is discovered..
Lastly, Tea/Michael Twining, the bassist, is a guy people are smart enough not to mess with. As it describes in the book that, "one thing he did better than smoking weed, it was playing bass guitar."
However, whilst trying to make it the world as a young, teenage band, things get in the way and as expected, they all want the best girl in school - Rebecca Vargas, which brings love, tension and aspects of heartbreak to get in the way of the band, along with the struggle of searching to get signed and playing gig after gig.
One reason I love the book so much is because as you're reading it, the characters seem to come alive each with their own individuality - their voices and how they come across. Furthermore, I particularly liked how the book isn't only just narrated but you get small paragraphs of a character's thoughts between; this is interesting because you really get to see inside their head and their point of view on things going on in the book as well as having your own as you read along. This also makes the characters much more relatable, keeping you gripped to the story.
Love music? Then I'm guaranteed you'll love this book! I can't wait 'til book 2!
The book explores the start of journey of four teenage boys living in London trying to make it as a band. The contrast been each character is particularly engaging and gives the book a real twist to it!
Burt Winsor - a typical 15/16 year old lad, good-looking and considerably over-confident. All he wants is the girl of his dreams and starting a band is the start of getting that but little did he know, it was one of the best decisions he ever made.
There's Egg/Edward Poacher - shy, ginger, can play any instrument he picks up, but completely invisible amongst his classmates until he shows his true talent by joining a band.
Clipper/Justin Liam Clipper - at first sight, a strong, hardcore-looking footballer, un-beatable in every fight but underneath another side of him is discovered..
Lastly, Tea/Michael Twining, the bassist, is a guy people are smart enough not to mess with. As it describes in the book that, "one thing he did better than smoking weed, it was playing bass guitar."
However, whilst trying to make it the world as a young, teenage band, things get in the way and as expected, they all want the best girl in school - Rebecca Vargas, which brings love, tension and aspects of heartbreak to get in the way of the band, along with the struggle of searching to get signed and playing gig after gig.
One reason I love the book so much is because as you're reading it, the characters seem to come alive each with their own individuality - their voices and how they come across. Furthermore, I particularly liked how the book isn't only just narrated but you get small paragraphs of a character's thoughts between; this is interesting because you really get to see inside their head and their point of view on things going on in the book as well as having your own as you read along. This also makes the characters much more relatable, keeping you gripped to the story.
Love music? Then I'm guaranteed you'll love this book! I can't wait 'til book 2!
February 3, 2014
I'm not the sort of person who reads a lot, but the unique plot of this book made me want to read it. After checking out the twitter accounts of this book (@TheRnRDiaries, @therockateers), I decided to purchase it. And I'm so glad I bought it! The book is definitely one of my favorites at the moment, and I absolutely can't wait until book two comes out! I love the way that the band is sort of 'brought to life' through the music and twitter account! It's such a distinctive idea!
Great read!
Great read!
February 3, 2014
absaloutly fantastic to read it tells how hard the music industry is but with practise and patience it pays off .not much of a book reader but this book has got me wanting more from it cant wait for book 2.jamie scallion u are the best u should be so proud of the book xxx
August 23, 2013
Check out my review on my blog to listen to song clips, and find links to an audiobook clip.
This book needs more than 5 stars to rate it.
I can honestly say I have never enjoyed an audiobook as much as this one. When I was contacted about reviewing Making It I had not heard anything about the book or the author, after doing some quick research, quick because one glance at the synopsis had me wanting to read the book, I quickly replied with a big YES PLEASE. From the minute I began listening to Making It I was hooked. Making It is the perfect audiobook, with an excellent narrator, background noises (traffic, typing, rustling bushes), and even music to go with the songs being written and played by the band. There is so much about this audiobook that I am going to split my review into different sections in order to give each component its best review. The additional bonus of having background noises only enhanced the story that much more.
The Story
The story has a way of instantly drawing you in. Each member of the band has their own sections in the chapters so we get to hear all sides of the story and how they feel about each other. We get to see how four completely different lads can somehow make a band work. Granted it's all in aid of Bert getting the girl he wants, but it soon ends up being about working together against the odds. having belief in yourself and your ability, and the hard truth about the real world. Jamie Scallion has done an amazing job of showing the reality of a dream and how hard you have to work to achieve it. When the book was coming to an end I almost threw my iPod, but thankfully there was a 'Bonus Song' which took us off one cliff, and put us down on another. I need to find out what happens next right now!!!!!!!!
The Narrator
The narrator of Making It is Jamie Scallion himself, and he really makes it come alive. He portrays the personalities of each band member to perfection, and I quickly found myself making a list of who I liked and didn't like. Jamie has a way of drawing the listener in and making it vary hard for them to stop.
The Songs
This book needs its own soundtrack. The songs played throughout the book need to be full length and downloadable on iTunes. They are so catchy and addictive, once they stop you have them stuck in your head for hours afterwards. There needs to be a petition or something to get this in action.
Make sure to check out the links above to the website for The Rock 'n' Roll Diaries, you get to download the first few chapters free, and get the chance to listen to a clip of the audiobook.
This book needs more than 5 stars to rate it.
I can honestly say I have never enjoyed an audiobook as much as this one. When I was contacted about reviewing Making It I had not heard anything about the book or the author, after doing some quick research, quick because one glance at the synopsis had me wanting to read the book, I quickly replied with a big YES PLEASE. From the minute I began listening to Making It I was hooked. Making It is the perfect audiobook, with an excellent narrator, background noises (traffic, typing, rustling bushes), and even music to go with the songs being written and played by the band. There is so much about this audiobook that I am going to split my review into different sections in order to give each component its best review. The additional bonus of having background noises only enhanced the story that much more.
The Story
The story has a way of instantly drawing you in. Each member of the band has their own sections in the chapters so we get to hear all sides of the story and how they feel about each other. We get to see how four completely different lads can somehow make a band work. Granted it's all in aid of Bert getting the girl he wants, but it soon ends up being about working together against the odds. having belief in yourself and your ability, and the hard truth about the real world. Jamie Scallion has done an amazing job of showing the reality of a dream and how hard you have to work to achieve it. When the book was coming to an end I almost threw my iPod, but thankfully there was a 'Bonus Song' which took us off one cliff, and put us down on another. I need to find out what happens next right now!!!!!!!!
The Narrator
The narrator of Making It is Jamie Scallion himself, and he really makes it come alive. He portrays the personalities of each band member to perfection, and I quickly found myself making a list of who I liked and didn't like. Jamie has a way of drawing the listener in and making it vary hard for them to stop.
The Songs
This book needs its own soundtrack. The songs played throughout the book need to be full length and downloadable on iTunes. They are so catchy and addictive, once they stop you have them stuck in your head for hours afterwards. There needs to be a petition or something to get this in action.
Make sure to check out the links above to the website for The Rock 'n' Roll Diaries, you get to download the first few chapters free, and get the chance to listen to a clip of the audiobook.
February 28, 2014
If you like music and you like teen fiction, let me just tell you now: you need to read this book! It's funny, fast and honest too. It'll tell you how the music industry works, how hard it is to get a band noticed but also how amazing it is to do what you love in a group of your best friends. I read it really fast and quickly became invested in The RockAteers and their burgeoning music career. It's exactly how I'd imagine The Inbetweeners if they decided to start a rock band!
The RockAteers is made up of four teenage members: Burt the lead singer, Egg the songwriter and guitarist, Tea the bassist and Clipper the drummer. They all come together through auditions held by Burt, and quickly form a well-received band who look like they're on the road to success. As with all groups of young guys, tensions rise, arguments are had and, as always, girls come between them. There's lots of swearing, raucous behaviour and angst - basically your typical teenage boys!
Each character has their moment to shine, and each stands out in their own way. If faced with choosing a favourite I'd probably have to go for Egg and his songwriting skills, though I'm also quite fond of Clipper. Burt annoyed me for the majority of the book, even though his actions can be related back to his difficult home life. He's your typical egotistical, self-involved frontman who doesn't care about anybody but himself, which I'm sure is true of a lot of real life bands and singers. I warmed to him more by the end of the book, but he's one I'd stay well away from if he actually existed!
I like how this book is written, with diary entries from the boys interspersed throughout. It gives an insight into what they're thinking and feeling, and provides some pretty funny moments. It's also interesting to see what goes on behind the scenes in the music industry, which is notorious for causing scandals and being all about the money. I'm not sure how much is true and how much is exaggerated, but either way it's eye-opening to read about, mostly thanks to author Jamie Scallion's expert insider knowledge on the subject.
I'd recommend The Rock 'n' Roll Diaries to any YA readers looking for a fun, music-filled book that is guaranteed to entertain. It's the first in a proposed four book series about The RockAteers and, with how this first book ended, the second book should be very interesting indeed. It's a great read for boys and girls (but especially boys - they'll love it), and anyone in or thinking of joining a band. As an added bonus, you can also listen to some RockAteers songs online - how cool is that?!
The RockAteers is made up of four teenage members: Burt the lead singer, Egg the songwriter and guitarist, Tea the bassist and Clipper the drummer. They all come together through auditions held by Burt, and quickly form a well-received band who look like they're on the road to success. As with all groups of young guys, tensions rise, arguments are had and, as always, girls come between them. There's lots of swearing, raucous behaviour and angst - basically your typical teenage boys!
Each character has their moment to shine, and each stands out in their own way. If faced with choosing a favourite I'd probably have to go for Egg and his songwriting skills, though I'm also quite fond of Clipper. Burt annoyed me for the majority of the book, even though his actions can be related back to his difficult home life. He's your typical egotistical, self-involved frontman who doesn't care about anybody but himself, which I'm sure is true of a lot of real life bands and singers. I warmed to him more by the end of the book, but he's one I'd stay well away from if he actually existed!
I like how this book is written, with diary entries from the boys interspersed throughout. It gives an insight into what they're thinking and feeling, and provides some pretty funny moments. It's also interesting to see what goes on behind the scenes in the music industry, which is notorious for causing scandals and being all about the money. I'm not sure how much is true and how much is exaggerated, but either way it's eye-opening to read about, mostly thanks to author Jamie Scallion's expert insider knowledge on the subject.
I'd recommend The Rock 'n' Roll Diaries to any YA readers looking for a fun, music-filled book that is guaranteed to entertain. It's the first in a proposed four book series about The RockAteers and, with how this first book ended, the second book should be very interesting indeed. It's a great read for boys and girls (but especially boys - they'll love it), and anyone in or thinking of joining a band. As an added bonus, you can also listen to some RockAteers songs online - how cool is that?!
February 4, 2014
I really enjoyed reading this book. When I first heard about the book I thought it was going to be primarily a teen read and wasn’t sure I would enjoy reading it but as I started to read I soon realised this book could be read and enjoyed by all ages.
The book has a honest easy read writing style which is funny, entertaining and has some serious moments mixed in with some real laugh out loud ones. The main characters in the book are all very different but ones that everyone can relate to. I instantly liked some and was eager for them to do well, others I instantly disliked but as the story unfolded found myself slowly warming to them. I liked the diary entries giving the characters different view points on the events and their journeys within the book. A winner, a loser, a leader, a loner, in the first few chapters I had made my mind up and thought I knew to whom each of these statements referred to but as the book and the characters developed I changed my mind to who was the winner, loser, leader, loner was not just once but several times. I am really looking forward to the second book and can’t wait to find out what happens to all the characters not just the lads in the band but girls too in particularly the poor deluded Hazel/Crazel.
The Rock and Roll Diaries is a thoroughly entertaining read I would highly recommend this book.
The book has a honest easy read writing style which is funny, entertaining and has some serious moments mixed in with some real laugh out loud ones. The main characters in the book are all very different but ones that everyone can relate to. I instantly liked some and was eager for them to do well, others I instantly disliked but as the story unfolded found myself slowly warming to them. I liked the diary entries giving the characters different view points on the events and their journeys within the book. A winner, a loser, a leader, a loner, in the first few chapters I had made my mind up and thought I knew to whom each of these statements referred to but as the book and the characters developed I changed my mind to who was the winner, loser, leader, loner was not just once but several times. I am really looking forward to the second book and can’t wait to find out what happens to all the characters not just the lads in the band but girls too in particularly the poor deluded Hazel/Crazel.
The Rock and Roll Diaries is a thoroughly entertaining read I would highly recommend this book.
August 21, 2013
Meet Burt. He has everything your average teenager wants - looks, money, charm...but he doesn't have the girl. In order to win Bex's heart, Burt needs to take some drastic action. He needs to start a rock band. After assembling a gang of misfits, the Rockateers are born...
Told in traditional narrative, diary entries and with a sound track to go with the developing band's story (which can be found here: http://www.therocknrolldiaries.com/), "The Rock 'N' Roll Diaries - Making It" will not disappoint. Scallion's characterisation is flawless, his pacing page turning and his comedy timing spot on. You will instantaneously fall in love with the eclectic range of characters in this first offering of the forthcoming trilogy.
While on the surface it will appeal to fans of music, and - with a cast of teenage characters - the young adult market, this book should not be limited to those readers alone. It is well worth reading whatever your age, interests or preferred genre of book.
Crossing The Inbetweeners with This is England, Scallion has brought a whole world to life on the page, that will, apart from everything else, leave you wanting more.
A definite must, if you are considering purchasing.
Told in traditional narrative, diary entries and with a sound track to go with the developing band's story (which can be found here: http://www.therocknrolldiaries.com/), "The Rock 'N' Roll Diaries - Making It" will not disappoint. Scallion's characterisation is flawless, his pacing page turning and his comedy timing spot on. You will instantaneously fall in love with the eclectic range of characters in this first offering of the forthcoming trilogy.
While on the surface it will appeal to fans of music, and - with a cast of teenage characters - the young adult market, this book should not be limited to those readers alone. It is well worth reading whatever your age, interests or preferred genre of book.
Crossing The Inbetweeners with This is England, Scallion has brought a whole world to life on the page, that will, apart from everything else, leave you wanting more.
A definite must, if you are considering purchasing.
August 21, 2013
Such a compelling, fast paced story that I absolutely loved reading. 'The Rock and Roll Diaries' tells the story of four teenagers, different though they are become united, each with a dream of something bigger, each part of a band with big hopes and awe inspiring songs. The characters are all so different and the introspective diary entries make this book stand out against others I have recently read. Totally unique, totally entertaining and just a fantastic read :)
January 17, 2014
Never been a book person but was told to try this an I could not put it down! Such a good book and cannot wait for book 2
February 3, 2014
This is an absolute must read loved every single thing about it! If you haven't read it yet the. You must do ASAP before the next one is released!
January 30, 2014
Makes me want to start a band right now!!
January 5, 2015
What a crazy and entertaining story this is! Burt is 16 and has it all: the looks, the charm and the money. He's been chasing this girl Bex for years now and she's the only one - or the only thing - that got a way. In a last attempt to win her over he starts a band, the RockAteers. He asks a musical nerd (Egg), a loner (Tea) and a homosexual soccerplayer (Clipper) to join him. Together they will beat the odds...
At first "Making It" looks like another Rocky-like tale about nobodies becoming somebodies. But in a suprising twist you'll soon discover that Burt isn't that sympathetic at all. He does become a great singer but as a boy he's a real prick. His love for his little sister is genuine though. No, as a reader you'll cheer for nerdy Egg, a musical talent who's in love with the prettiest girl in school, Bex (the same girl Burt is after). What must he do with his feelings?
Clipper, the drummer, also has obstacles to overcome.
He not only struggles with his homosexuality and is secretly in love with Burt, he must also choose between playing soccer and him drumming in The RockAteers. Bass player Tea looks like the only one who hasn't any issues. He's also the one that doesn't get much 'screentime'. I hope we'll learn more about him in book 2.
"Making it" is a well written and surprising tale about music, friendship, love and the way it goes in the music industry. I love the way the story is told both in first person as in the third person.
The only thing I didn't like was the "love story" between the nerd and the prettiest girl in school. I thought it wasn't that realistic, although I rooted for them both.
Looking forward to reading part 2!
At first "Making It" looks like another Rocky-like tale about nobodies becoming somebodies. But in a suprising twist you'll soon discover that Burt isn't that sympathetic at all. He does become a great singer but as a boy he's a real prick. His love for his little sister is genuine though. No, as a reader you'll cheer for nerdy Egg, a musical talent who's in love with the prettiest girl in school, Bex (the same girl Burt is after). What must he do with his feelings?
Clipper, the drummer, also has obstacles to overcome.
He not only struggles with his homosexuality and is secretly in love with Burt, he must also choose between playing soccer and him drumming in The RockAteers. Bass player Tea looks like the only one who hasn't any issues. He's also the one that doesn't get much 'screentime'. I hope we'll learn more about him in book 2.
"Making it" is a well written and surprising tale about music, friendship, love and the way it goes in the music industry. I love the way the story is told both in first person as in the third person.
The only thing I didn't like was the "love story" between the nerd and the prettiest girl in school. I thought it wasn't that realistic, although I rooted for them both.
Looking forward to reading part 2!
May 9, 2015
See full review @ The Indigo Quill
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
So the concept of this book is really cool. Not only is it an intimate look into the head and life of a rock star, but it's interactive as you can actually meet and hear the characters. This brings the whole thing to life.
You're probably wondering why I gave this 3 stars. Don't get me wrong, it's an interesting concept and the storyline was entertaining. It was also a very fast read considering more than half the book consists of journal entries. But I felt like there wasn't any real goal or direction and although this may have been the road the band actually experienced, it was a bit too easy. I know a few Indie bands that my friends have started and it's been a much harder and slower journey for them. It was also really hard for me to like the "characters" after a while. I know when you're young and writing diaries it's basically an outlet for your teenage angst, but after a while it became a little exhausting. However, I realize this is realistic and the author was candid so kudos to him for that.
If you're into rocker memoirs and getting a behind the scenes look of the real life of a rock star, then you'll enjoy this book. I can't say that I loved it, but it was interesting enough to keep me reading and experience at least once.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
So the concept of this book is really cool. Not only is it an intimate look into the head and life of a rock star, but it's interactive as you can actually meet and hear the characters. This brings the whole thing to life.
You're probably wondering why I gave this 3 stars. Don't get me wrong, it's an interesting concept and the storyline was entertaining. It was also a very fast read considering more than half the book consists of journal entries. But I felt like there wasn't any real goal or direction and although this may have been the road the band actually experienced, it was a bit too easy. I know a few Indie bands that my friends have started and it's been a much harder and slower journey for them. It was also really hard for me to like the "characters" after a while. I know when you're young and writing diaries it's basically an outlet for your teenage angst, but after a while it became a little exhausting. However, I realize this is realistic and the author was candid so kudos to him for that.
If you're into rocker memoirs and getting a behind the scenes look of the real life of a rock star, then you'll enjoy this book. I can't say that I loved it, but it was interesting enough to keep me reading and experience at least once.
April 12, 2015
This is the kind of book I wanted to read when I was a 'young adult'. In the 80s we had 'Sweet Valley High' and Judy Blume tomes (not that I am criticising Ms Blume - I was a big fan and my copy of 'Forever' always fell open on 'certain pages') but nothing about Rock n Roll ... nothing about boys in tight trousers playing guitars.
The band in the book are diverse, like most rock bands are. They are a mish-mash of YA character types who come together to create a sound that rocks the scene. Much in the same way as I have seen many bands do before.
I read this with a wry grin on my face as I photographed and loved Officer Kicks for many years. Although I didn't see the boys I know in the characters in the books there are moments I'm sure were reaped from real life!
This novel is essential for any boy or girl who wants to venture into the world of rock and I loved it.
Good work Jamie - when's the next one out?
The band in the book are diverse, like most rock bands are. They are a mish-mash of YA character types who come together to create a sound that rocks the scene. Much in the same way as I have seen many bands do before.
I read this with a wry grin on my face as I photographed and loved Officer Kicks for many years. Although I didn't see the boys I know in the characters in the books there are moments I'm sure were reaped from real life!
This novel is essential for any boy or girl who wants to venture into the world of rock and I loved it.
Good work Jamie - when's the next one out?
July 29, 2015
Are you an aspiring musician who needs a book to get them inspired? Keep looking. This cliché-ridden novel/novella (it was quite short) offers the easiest road to stardom anyone can hope for, through the means of unnecessary inappropriate language and scenes.. The characters are underdeveloped and impossible to root for behind all their common archetypal facades. Every twist and turn was coincidental and, strangely, expected. The plot really is just not there. However; with that being said, it is a fun read. There's some humor and songs that are worth a listen. And if you so happen to love it, it's not hard to read gain given that you can read it one sitting and I have, in fact, read it twice (hoping I might like it much better the second time 'round).
August 31, 2013
Oh, I so wanted to love this - I saw the author perform with his band Officer Kicks back in 2009 and have followed him on Twitter and Facebook since, so when I saw that he was writing this I was really excited.
I did enjoy it, don't get me wrong, but I'm quite obviously not the target audience and as a result, the actual diary entries were my least favourite part of the book. The story is a good one, but the inner musings of the characters left me cold most of the time. I need to remember that I am 20+ years older than these guys......
Having said that, I enjoyed it enough to want to see what happens next.......
I did enjoy it, don't get me wrong, but I'm quite obviously not the target audience and as a result, the actual diary entries were my least favourite part of the book. The story is a good one, but the inner musings of the characters left me cold most of the time. I need to remember that I am 20+ years older than these guys......
Having said that, I enjoyed it enough to want to see what happens next.......
July 26, 2016
I've never loved reading books at all. The Rock 'N' Roll Diaries is the one book where I really felt the need to connect with the story line and keep pushing myself to read on. Reading is never my thing. The only books I've read are textbooks. This is the book that got me reading many other books like 'Looking for Alaska' by John Green and 'The Maze Runner' by James Dashner. Indubitably one of the most captivating books, in my opinion. Check it out.
February 14, 2014
This is an absolutely fantastic read. It grips you from the start and you can't put it down. Don't be put off if you don't normally read this kind of book it's amazing and you'll love it. Can't wait for book 2 having it
February 19, 2014
This is a book to listen to rather than to read because the listener is treated to excerpts of the songs the lads perform. The reader does a good job differentiating between the four boys. Not great literature, but a fun listen. #funbook
February 25, 2014
Great read can't wait for the next one
March 7, 2014
Excellent book recommended by Danny from "The Script". Engaging exciting and a really entertaining story. Thoroughly enjoyed it and can't wait for another instalment.
February 10, 2021
Scallion was formerly a member of the band Officer Kicks, and it can be assumed that the book is at least partly autobiographical.
Without giving too much away, this first volume follows the story of a band of school friends making their first steps in the music industry.
Some of the characters are a little clichéd, but for the most part, Making It was a fun story that moved quickly. I'll definitely read the rest of the series.
Without giving too much away, this first volume follows the story of a band of school friends making their first steps in the music industry.
Some of the characters are a little clichéd, but for the most part, Making It was a fun story that moved quickly. I'll definitely read the rest of the series.
February 8, 2014
This is a funny, insightful book about making a band and the desire to make it successful. The characters are all very different but all have their input into the band and the relationships with each other and their fans. The book is based on real experiences from many people/bands including Jamie himself and The Script.
I laughed out loud on many occasions reading this book and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading about the trials and tribulations of a group of friends (and the one girl they like), anyone who has an interest in music and how bands are made and end up on our radio stations and to anyone who likes to read a book that can take them away from their own world into one that will have you laughing like a hyena :-)
Recommended to over 14s as does contain swearing and some sexual content.
I can't wait for book 2.
I laughed out loud on many occasions reading this book and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading about the trials and tribulations of a group of friends (and the one girl they like), anyone who has an interest in music and how bands are made and end up on our radio stations and to anyone who likes to read a book that can take them away from their own world into one that will have you laughing like a hyena :-)
Recommended to over 14s as does contain swearing and some sexual content.
I can't wait for book 2.
July 24, 2015
I thought a while before submitting a rating, but gave 4* because it is a great story. The ego clashes between band members feel very real. (Don't ask me how, but I know!) I would have liked Burt's relationship with his sister to be a stronger part of the story from the start leading to the traumas at the end, but that's a small issue.
I think it's a fantastic story about making it in the music industry whilst keeping options open, remaing sane and not being manipulated by businessmen ...or family.
My biggest concern comes from a professional view point and it is about the level of swearing. Yes, it's realistic, but its use puts School Librarians in a difficult situation. LOVE the story, want to promote it, but schools penalise use of 'bad' language. The good news is that I think there may be another version on its way. I hope so because this is a great story, first in a series.
I think it's a fantastic story about making it in the music industry whilst keeping options open, remaing sane and not being manipulated by businessmen ...or family.
My biggest concern comes from a professional view point and it is about the level of swearing. Yes, it's realistic, but its use puts School Librarians in a difficult situation. LOVE the story, want to promote it, but schools penalise use of 'bad' language. The good news is that I think there may be another version on its way. I hope so because this is a great story, first in a series.
April 11, 2016
I loved reading Making It. We meet as strangers, but leave as friends. We are introduced to each character and their uniqueness, Very 'The Breakfast Club' feel to the book as they are all becoming familiar to each other, and make a go of becoming a band. If you like reading books with a music/band theme you will love this book. It is very difficult not to get caught up in this book, at every opportunity my head was in it! I also bought the audio book, and the authors rich dulcet tone made it all the more pleasant!!
February 1, 2016
I read this based on the recommendation of @thescript and I loved it - I think I found it funny for different reasons than some readers due to be being a bit older than the average reader of the book but I loved it - the thoughts that go through teenage boys heads never cease to amaze and amuse me - A really great insight into a how a band starts and very funny - a good easy read that it well written xx https://twitter.com/therockateers https://twitter.com/JamieScallion onwards to the second book straight away xx
May 30, 2015
Great book. Well written. Easy to read. not more to say
May 13, 2017
Really enjoyed the continuing story of The Rockateers. Bring on the sequel!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews