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What About You, Josh McBride?
Josh and Elliot have been living in the shadows of their inner demons for far too long.
Josh McBride was the angry, emotionally avoidant one, while Elliot was the invisible, anxious, carer. When they ended up in Cruxby together and discovered their family's history, that all had to change. Except, old habits were hard to break.
If life had dealt them a different hand, they could have reached their potential. Elliot should have been a confident performer and Josh should have been able to perform in his courses to go on to joinery school.
But this isn't some fairy tale, and Josh can't stay in class, let alone an exam. He believes he's stupid and that's all there is to it. Elliot has a chance in the talent show if his audition goes well, but the anxiousness from his past creeps in from every angle.
Will these two be able to rise above their pasts and create their own destinies, or will their demons win in the end?
Josh McBride was the angry, emotionally avoidant one, while Elliot was the invisible, anxious, carer. When they ended up in Cruxby together and discovered their family's history, that all had to change. Except, old habits were hard to break.
If life had dealt them a different hand, they could have reached their potential. Elliot should have been a confident performer and Josh should have been able to perform in his courses to go on to joinery school.
But this isn't some fairy tale, and Josh can't stay in class, let alone an exam. He believes he's stupid and that's all there is to it. Elliot has a chance in the talent show if his audition goes well, but the anxiousness from his past creeps in from every angle.
Will these two be able to rise above their pasts and create their own destinies, or will their demons win in the end?
- GenresYoung Adult
252 pages, Paperback
Published October 24, 2023
15 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
January 30, 2024
✰ 3.5 stars ✰
“I now know that no one should ever make you feel that you have to hide. We are all different and we all deserve to be seen.”
Set two years after the moment that inadvertently but unexpectedly brought Josh McBride and Elliot Hart closer together, What About You, Josh McBride? continues their story as they try to navigate their lives after the events that led them to where they were now.
“Kick for every bad hand we’ve been dealt in our lives. Kick against the bullying, the name-calling, the teasing, the ignoring.”
Once again, Kate S. Martin delivers a compelling and realistic gritty coming-of-age story of these two sixteen-year-old protagonists. Seeing Elliot and Josh try to find a balance in life after the changes they went through was portrayed believably well; and their stories were interesting, too! Trying to figure where they want to go in their future studies, struggling with their newfound attractions to the girls they meet, the fear of not being worth anyone's time or someone worth caring for. It is a fresh and relatable look that also approaches some very important and sensitive issues with a gentle but firm touch. 👍🏻
After being a caregiver of his mother for so long, it's hard to let go of that constant struggle - that feeling of importance - that someone still needs you. 🥲 So, I appreciated the approach Josh's narrative went - how he tried to direct his attentions elsewhere, how he participated in a therapy group that experienced the same things, and how it helped bring him closure that he was now allowed to live a life of his own - 'you can only do your best' - that is all he ever has to do. 😟 It's a battle that he doesn't have to fight on his own, and I was grateful that he was able to realize that he didn't have to carry the demons of his past with him into the future.
But, Josh really struggled here and I struggled along with him. For someone who no one has ever thrown a lifeboat towards, it's now at that critical stage in his life that he is at the crossroads of deciding which path he wants to follow. 😢 The volatile and violent one that will only lead him towards the same fate as his father and the expectations of those who see that in him, or to choose the hand of those who still believe and see the good in him - the potential he has and all that he has yet to offer. It was interesting to see how his dyslexia was portrayed - not that it was bad, but how the teachers supported and encouraged him to find a way to better understand his situation. One distinctive scene really stood out for me - that was both harrowing and overwhelming - where Josh really has to sit back and examine what he has to decide for himself, before it's too late. It was convincingly portrayed in an honest and raw way that really shined at that pivotal moment where he does have to choose what his heart wants. 🥺
“I can’t believe you saved my life with those twig-like arms!”
“Oi!”
We look at each other. “I don’t deserve you.”
“Maybe not but you’re stuck with me.”
Elliot and Josh's relationship is definitely one of the highlights - they are growing and caring for each other - together. It's a friendship that was forged under the strangest of circumstances, but one that they have fought fiercely to cling onto. Even as they grow into their own independent individuals, Elliot did not abandon Josh and Josh didn't want to lose the faith and trust he had earned with Elliot. 'You told me to start asking for help. You told me to stop being so stubborn and scared and ask for help. I’m doing it!' 🥹 I loved when Elliot just hurtled himself into the bullies that were tormenting Josh - I ached for Elliot when Josh was at his side during a very heart-breaking ordeal. Their conversations were just heart-warming and heart-felt with a touch of humor and resilience that made me really proud of what they accomplished amidst the hurdles they faced. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
“Perseverance, but you can only persevere if you have people who stay by your side, especially through the tough times.”
I am quite surprised at how much I appreciated this duet; even the supporting cast was well-fleshed out and I enjoyed the different dynamics that existed between them. There is a great balance between the heavy and emotional scenes against the more light-hearted and tender moments, but nonetheless, equally impactful. And despite it all, it is that rewarding and hopeful ending that leaves the characters and readers with a glimpse that even through the hurdles one faces in life, there can still be a light at the end of a dark tunnel. 🙏🏻
“I now know that no one should ever make you feel that you have to hide. We are all different and we all deserve to be seen.”
Set two years after the moment that inadvertently but unexpectedly brought Josh McBride and Elliot Hart closer together, What About You, Josh McBride? continues their story as they try to navigate their lives after the events that led them to where they were now.
“Kick for every bad hand we’ve been dealt in our lives. Kick against the bullying, the name-calling, the teasing, the ignoring.”
Once again, Kate S. Martin delivers a compelling and realistic gritty coming-of-age story of these two sixteen-year-old protagonists. Seeing Elliot and Josh try to find a balance in life after the changes they went through was portrayed believably well; and their stories were interesting, too! Trying to figure where they want to go in their future studies, struggling with their newfound attractions to the girls they meet, the fear of not being worth anyone's time or someone worth caring for. It is a fresh and relatable look that also approaches some very important and sensitive issues with a gentle but firm touch. 👍🏻
After being a caregiver of his mother for so long, it's hard to let go of that constant struggle - that feeling of importance - that someone still needs you. 🥲 So, I appreciated the approach Josh's narrative went - how he tried to direct his attentions elsewhere, how he participated in a therapy group that experienced the same things, and how it helped bring him closure that he was now allowed to live a life of his own - 'you can only do your best' - that is all he ever has to do. 😟 It's a battle that he doesn't have to fight on his own, and I was grateful that he was able to realize that he didn't have to carry the demons of his past with him into the future.
But, Josh really struggled here and I struggled along with him. For someone who no one has ever thrown a lifeboat towards, it's now at that critical stage in his life that he is at the crossroads of deciding which path he wants to follow. 😢 The volatile and violent one that will only lead him towards the same fate as his father and the expectations of those who see that in him, or to choose the hand of those who still believe and see the good in him - the potential he has and all that he has yet to offer. It was interesting to see how his dyslexia was portrayed - not that it was bad, but how the teachers supported and encouraged him to find a way to better understand his situation. One distinctive scene really stood out for me - that was both harrowing and overwhelming - where Josh really has to sit back and examine what he has to decide for himself, before it's too late. It was convincingly portrayed in an honest and raw way that really shined at that pivotal moment where he does have to choose what his heart wants. 🥺
“I can’t believe you saved my life with those twig-like arms!”
“Oi!”
We look at each other. “I don’t deserve you.”
“Maybe not but you’re stuck with me.”
Elliot and Josh's relationship is definitely one of the highlights - they are growing and caring for each other - together. It's a friendship that was forged under the strangest of circumstances, but one that they have fought fiercely to cling onto. Even as they grow into their own independent individuals, Elliot did not abandon Josh and Josh didn't want to lose the faith and trust he had earned with Elliot. 'You told me to start asking for help. You told me to stop being so stubborn and scared and ask for help. I’m doing it!' 🥹 I loved when Elliot just hurtled himself into the bullies that were tormenting Josh - I ached for Elliot when Josh was at his side during a very heart-breaking ordeal. Their conversations were just heart-warming and heart-felt with a touch of humor and resilience that made me really proud of what they accomplished amidst the hurdles they faced. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
“Perseverance, but you can only persevere if you have people who stay by your side, especially through the tough times.”
I am quite surprised at how much I appreciated this duet; even the supporting cast was well-fleshed out and I enjoyed the different dynamics that existed between them. There is a great balance between the heavy and emotional scenes against the more light-hearted and tender moments, but nonetheless, equally impactful. And despite it all, it is that rewarding and hopeful ending that leaves the characters and readers with a glimpse that even through the hurdles one faces in life, there can still be a light at the end of a dark tunnel. 🙏🏻
September 13, 2023
Thanks to the publisher for an advanced reader copy. An enjoyable continuation of Josh and Elliot’s stories told in alternating points of view. You won’t need to read Martin’s first novel (although I recommend it!) as she expertly weaves in the back story of these two teenage boys. For young adult and adult readers alike, this story explores the complicated lives of teens today with subjects like mental health, dyslexia, and bullying. Strong theme of the strength of friendship to see the tough times through.
September 5, 2024
I did enjoy reading this YA book, that tackled some seriously adult issues head on. Written with just the right amount of empathy not to be patronising, it was interesting to read and kept my interest throughout. Good book.
October 15, 2023
This is a wonderful follow-up to the first book in the series, Are You Okay, Elliot Hart? We get to catch up with both Elliot and his one-time bully Josh, who have come a long way from where they were at the start of the first book. In case you haven't read either book, I won't give away any spoilers about their relationship, but suffice it to say it's touching and heartwarming, and I was rooting for both of them to succeed and overcome their challenges - to put it lightly, neither has been dealt an easy hand in life. Once again, Martin absolutely nails the awkwardness and insecurities that we all go through in adolescence, including those fumbling attempts at romance. This series is highly recommended for anyone from high school age on up.
September 9, 2023
Don’t you just love reading a sequel or a series and finding what’s happened to the characters you fell in love with the first time? Kate Martin’s wonderfully created Elliot and Josh are back, with each boy tackling their own particular demons and problems along with growing up and making choices of what to do once they leave school.
There are some wonderful scenes in this beautifully written story. Kate knows and loves her characters so well, they are drawn both delicately and strongly.
Themes of not being good enough, the fear of loss and the unfairness of their situations are gently explored along with some funny moments (and I must mention the biscuit guide at the start - a touch of class and humour).
I would thoroughly recommend this book and thank the publisher for the chance to read an early review copy.
There are some wonderful scenes in this beautifully written story. Kate knows and loves her characters so well, they are drawn both delicately and strongly.
Themes of not being good enough, the fear of loss and the unfairness of their situations are gently explored along with some funny moments (and I must mention the biscuit guide at the start - a touch of class and humour).
I would thoroughly recommend this book and thank the publisher for the chance to read an early review copy.
September 9, 2023
Thank you to the publisher for an ARC of this book.
This was a great continuation of the story about Elliott and Josh. Both of their struggles were so well-written and I loved seeing how much they have grown since the last book and during this one as well. My favorite character was Ruby, a new girl in Elliot's carer group; she was fantastic. This book and the first in the series would be great additions in any libraries. This book will help teenagers not feel so alone if they are having issues with bullying. I can't wait to see what the author will write next!
This was a great continuation of the story about Elliott and Josh. Both of their struggles were so well-written and I loved seeing how much they have grown since the last book and during this one as well. My favorite character was Ruby, a new girl in Elliot's carer group; she was fantastic. This book and the first in the series would be great additions in any libraries. This book will help teenagers not feel so alone if they are having issues with bullying. I can't wait to see what the author will write next!
October 25, 2023
I’ve been so excited for this book and it absolutely didn’t disappoint. Ever since reading the first instalment, Are You Okay, Elliot Hart, I’ve been hooked on events in Mallowbank. In Josh and Elliot, Martin has created characters that so many young people can relate to. Their struggles, their triumphs, the times they get it right and the times they get it catastrophically wrong are all part of what makes these books so special.
We all remember being teenagers: the angst, the heartache, that feeling that nobody really gets you. Every time Martin puts pen to paper, she proves just how much she does GET teenagers.
Josh’s struggle with dyslexia is so well written and so representative of the difficulties so many students face without anybody realising for far too long. His anger and frustration are so well written that you can’t help but feel for this boy who has been through so much.
It was a joy to see Elliot growing into his newfound confidence and flourishing, and even getting some romance in his life.
Parts of the story were a real emotional rollercoaster, and there were moments that packed a real punch.
On the whole, What About You, Josh McBride is a emotionally charged adventure that will make you laugh, cry and mentally cheer for these characters we’ve grown to love so much.
I can’t wait to see what’s next from this talented author
We all remember being teenagers: the angst, the heartache, that feeling that nobody really gets you. Every time Martin puts pen to paper, she proves just how much she does GET teenagers.
Josh’s struggle with dyslexia is so well written and so representative of the difficulties so many students face without anybody realising for far too long. His anger and frustration are so well written that you can’t help but feel for this boy who has been through so much.
It was a joy to see Elliot growing into his newfound confidence and flourishing, and even getting some romance in his life.
Parts of the story were a real emotional rollercoaster, and there were moments that packed a real punch.
On the whole, What About You, Josh McBride is a emotionally charged adventure that will make you laugh, cry and mentally cheer for these characters we’ve grown to love so much.
I can’t wait to see what’s next from this talented author
September 11, 2023
Kate Martin is a talented #UKYA writer - definitely one to watch! Her characters always feel like real people, like people you might know: flawed and vulnerable and loveable. Martin's second novel continues to follow the characters Elliot and Josh from her debut - Are You Okay, Elliot Hart - but this time Josh has more of a central role as he grapples with struggles at school. Martin is particularly brilliant at showing us beneath the mask of seemingly tough teenage boys: their fears and pain and tenderness too. Her dialogue is snappy and sharp, begging to be read aloud. What About You, Josh McBride is another emotional journey, but I adore it for always, always, showing us the good in people and pointing towards hope. Sniff!
September 20, 2023
Kate Martin continues to take my breath away with this sequel. Elliot and Josh are two of the most well drawn portrayls of young men, I have ever read.
These books remind me of Barry Hines A Kestrel For A Knave in the way they really understand adolescent young men and the world they live in. There's humour and anger and drama all in these pages. Kate S Martin writes with empathy without it tipping over into sentimentality.
I enjoyed this so much. Elliot and Josh will live in my imagination for a long time.
These books remind me of Barry Hines A Kestrel For A Knave in the way they really understand adolescent young men and the world they live in. There's humour and anger and drama all in these pages. Kate S Martin writes with empathy without it tipping over into sentimentality.
I enjoyed this so much. Elliot and Josh will live in my imagination for a long time.
October 29, 2023
I loved Are You Okay, Elliot Hart? and this second visit to the characters, What About You, Josh McBride? was just as brilliant.
The characters are so relatable and I loved being back with them. It was nice to get to know Josh a little more and found I cried, I laughed and went through just about every emotion while I was reading.
This deals with grief, and some heavier subjects but dealt with in a sensitive way, and with a gentle humour throughout. It's a wonderful read that should be in all secondary school libraries.
Loved it! Can't wait for more books from Kate S Martin.
The characters are so relatable and I loved being back with them. It was nice to get to know Josh a little more and found I cried, I laughed and went through just about every emotion while I was reading.
This deals with grief, and some heavier subjects but dealt with in a sensitive way, and with a gentle humour throughout. It's a wonderful read that should be in all secondary school libraries.
Loved it! Can't wait for more books from Kate S Martin.
January 10, 2024
What I loved about this was that Kate S. Martin did not just write a story, she brought so much extra into it. She had such amazingly thought out characters with REAL problems. They read as though they were real people which allows the reader to get wholly invested.
Once I was in this novel I was immersed for sure. Consistent storytelling from start to finish. I enjoyed getting to know all of the characters. You connect to them from the start. This was a great read.
Once I was in this novel I was immersed for sure. Consistent storytelling from start to finish. I enjoyed getting to know all of the characters. You connect to them from the start. This was a great read.
January 11, 2024
I loved the way this was written. The author has a way of making you feel like you know the characters and you’re living the story right along with them.
The characters are relatable which helps the reader become invested. The storyline grabbed my attention and held it the entire way.
So much heart and so much real life issues. An incredible brilliant book, don’t miss it.
The characters are relatable which helps the reader become invested. The storyline grabbed my attention and held it the entire way.
So much heart and so much real life issues. An incredible brilliant book, don’t miss it.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews