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Northern Soul
From award-winning author Phil Earle comes the hilariously agonising account of one teenage boy’s disastrous attempts to win the heart of the cool new girl at school.
Up until now, Marv’s uneventful life has revolved around playing football with his best mate, Jimmy. But things take a turn for the dramatic with the arrival at school of new girl Carly Stonehouse.
Marv falls in love at first sight, but there’s no way a girl like Carly will ever look at him. Unless, perhaps, he enlists help from a very unusual source.
Follow Marv on his hilariously agonising quest for love, featuring his Croc-loving dad, a fast-food addicted musical idol from the past and some of the most cringeworthy song lyrics you might ever have heard …
Up until now, Marv’s uneventful life has revolved around playing football with his best mate, Jimmy. But things take a turn for the dramatic with the arrival at school of new girl Carly Stonehouse.
Marv falls in love at first sight, but there’s no way a girl like Carly will ever look at him. Unless, perhaps, he enlists help from a very unusual source.
Follow Marv on his hilariously agonising quest for love, featuring his Croc-loving dad, a fast-food addicted musical idol from the past and some of the most cringeworthy song lyrics you might ever have heard …
102 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 4, 2024
4 people are currently reading
93 people want to read
About the author
Phil Earle
48 books105 followersPhil was born in Hull in 1974, and he studied English and Drama at Hull University. He worked for a year as a carer in a children’s home, then after training as a drama therapist, he worked in a therapeutic community in London, which cared for multiply abused adolescents. Then, changing tack completely, he chose a marginally more sedate life as a children’s bookseller. It was here that he developed an obsession for kid’s literature, in particular, young adult fiction.
After three years at Ottakar’s, he became a sales rep, and then a key account manager for Transworld/Random House, and is now sales director at Simon and Schuster Children’s Books.
Phil lives in South East London with his wife and three young children.
After three years at Ottakar’s, he became a sales rep, and then a key account manager for Transworld/Random House, and is now sales director at Simon and Schuster Children’s Books.
Phil lives in South East London with his wife and three young children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
December 10, 2023
Angus, Thongs, and Perfect Snogging for boys. It’s got all the cringe - cheesy one liners, singing to a girl, bad braces moment… I laughed out loud a few times!
October 7, 2024
When new girl Carly Stonehouse arrives at school, Marv is smitten. How does he get Carly to notice him though? Knowing he can’t do this alone, he enlists the help of someone who knows all about the rules of love, someone who can surely give him all the advice he needs…
If you are looking for a quick, humorous read, I can highly recommend Northern Soul, which was a previous Times Children’s Book of the Week. While this is billed as a children’s book, please do not be put off – it is a great story with plenty of laugh out loud moments. I chose to listen to the audiobook which I felt added to the humour.
Marv is infatuated but feels that his cringeworthy father is not the man to ask for advice, instead turning to a very unusual source. After hearing his father playing Otis Redding, Marv decided that this is exactly the sort of man that knows the ways of the heart and so enlists the help of his ghost! What follows is a series of hysterical events and mishaps as Marv tries to get Carly to notice him.
Perfect for teenagers and anyone in need of a good laugh, I can highly recommend Northern Soul.
If you are looking for a quick, humorous read, I can highly recommend Northern Soul, which was a previous Times Children’s Book of the Week. While this is billed as a children’s book, please do not be put off – it is a great story with plenty of laugh out loud moments. I chose to listen to the audiobook which I felt added to the humour.
Marv is infatuated but feels that his cringeworthy father is not the man to ask for advice, instead turning to a very unusual source. After hearing his father playing Otis Redding, Marv decided that this is exactly the sort of man that knows the ways of the heart and so enlists the help of his ghost! What follows is a series of hysterical events and mishaps as Marv tries to get Carly to notice him.
Perfect for teenagers and anyone in need of a good laugh, I can highly recommend Northern Soul.
January 6, 2024
Such a warmly true and sweet story of first love. It made me all nostalgic for my own first kisses.
Perfect for reluctant teenage readers and parents who want to remember their teen years everywhere ❤️
Perfect for reluctant teenage readers and parents who want to remember their teen years everywhere ❤️
March 30, 2024
The perfectly awkward preteen novel, full of cringy moments and hilarious hiccups. It's a brilliant mix of all the 00's teen movies aimed at more of a male audience.
January 11, 2024
There has been this weird rule that romantic comedies have to be for women and girls, that somehow the pursuit of love is a female ideal, and not something that 'real men' should concern themselves with. Of course, it's down to toxic masculinity and the idea that men have to be stoic, emotionless people who shouldn't be in touch with their feelings, and as such rom coms get marketed to people other than men. Thankfully, this is changing a lot. The toxic masculinity traits and societal expectations are changing, and we're living more in a time where rom coms can actually be for guys. This is what Northern Soul is tapping into, the angst of teenage love and the desire to have your hearts desires fulfilled from the perspective on an awkward teenage boy.
Northern Soul follows Marvin, a boy who lives with his single father, never having really known his mother. His dad is a nice guy, though Marv thinks him a bit weird. He works in a music shop and loves old music (which Marv hates), and he has an unhealthy love from crocs. Other than that, though, Marv is living a fairly simple life, hanging with his friends, playing video games, and loving football. However, that all changes when Carly moves into the same street as him, and starts going to his school.
Marv is instantly in love with Carly, and just wants to get to know her better. He's so awkward that he's convinced that he's scared her off the first time that he speaks to her. When he goes home he finds his father listening to Otis Redding, and discovers music that speaks to his heart and the emotions he's experiencing. When he wishes that Otis, who clearly knows all about love, would tell him what to do it summons the invisible ghost of the singer, who makes it his mission to help Marv win over Carly; a mission that is not destined to go well.
Perhaps the best word to describe a lot of this book, and what Marv goes through, would be 'cringe'. It's very much an accurate depiction of teenage first love, with instant infatuation, making a fool of yourself repeatedly, and not always being able to pick up on the obvious signs around you. To say that it resurfaced some of my own awkward memories would be underselling it, and I spent the night after reading it with my head in my hand remembering what I was like at that age. Phil Earle manages to capture this feeling so well with the story that I wouldn't be surprised if he was drawing from similar experiences himself.
But, this book isn't aimed at us adults who have already been through this and are thanking god that our embarrassing stuff happened before you could record everything on a phone and share it to social media (we did our embarrassing stuff in private and only had word of mouth to worry about). Instead, this book is aimed at younger teen readers, readers who are probably going through similar situations to Marv; minus the ghost of Otis Redding helping them out that is. And I think that teens will enjoy this read. Marv is a nice guy, and I think other boys in his age range reading this will likely be able to identify with him. He's something of an everyman, and his shy awkwardness around girls will be something that most young readers will know all too well.
The book also contains a fair amount of comedy that I think will appeal, weird situations that are on one hand so awkward that you just want to look away, yet are also funny enough to keep you reading. Earle injects a good amount of humour into things, and it definitely makes the book feel really charming and takes the edge off some of the situations. But it's also got some good messages in there too, messages about not trying to hard, about not trying to make weird grand gestures to win someone over, but just being yourself and being confident in who you are. These are hard learned lessons for Marv, but hopefully reading about it will help those picking up the book to get there without so many bumps along the way.
Northern Soul is a bit of a silly, often ridiculous romantic comedy, but one that's quite harmless and even quite charming. It will appeal to older readers who have been there and done that and are glad those days are behind them, and it will likely be loved by those who are going through this difficult time themselves.
Northern Soul follows Marvin, a boy who lives with his single father, never having really known his mother. His dad is a nice guy, though Marv thinks him a bit weird. He works in a music shop and loves old music (which Marv hates), and he has an unhealthy love from crocs. Other than that, though, Marv is living a fairly simple life, hanging with his friends, playing video games, and loving football. However, that all changes when Carly moves into the same street as him, and starts going to his school.
Marv is instantly in love with Carly, and just wants to get to know her better. He's so awkward that he's convinced that he's scared her off the first time that he speaks to her. When he goes home he finds his father listening to Otis Redding, and discovers music that speaks to his heart and the emotions he's experiencing. When he wishes that Otis, who clearly knows all about love, would tell him what to do it summons the invisible ghost of the singer, who makes it his mission to help Marv win over Carly; a mission that is not destined to go well.
Perhaps the best word to describe a lot of this book, and what Marv goes through, would be 'cringe'. It's very much an accurate depiction of teenage first love, with instant infatuation, making a fool of yourself repeatedly, and not always being able to pick up on the obvious signs around you. To say that it resurfaced some of my own awkward memories would be underselling it, and I spent the night after reading it with my head in my hand remembering what I was like at that age. Phil Earle manages to capture this feeling so well with the story that I wouldn't be surprised if he was drawing from similar experiences himself.
But, this book isn't aimed at us adults who have already been through this and are thanking god that our embarrassing stuff happened before you could record everything on a phone and share it to social media (we did our embarrassing stuff in private and only had word of mouth to worry about). Instead, this book is aimed at younger teen readers, readers who are probably going through similar situations to Marv; minus the ghost of Otis Redding helping them out that is. And I think that teens will enjoy this read. Marv is a nice guy, and I think other boys in his age range reading this will likely be able to identify with him. He's something of an everyman, and his shy awkwardness around girls will be something that most young readers will know all too well.
The book also contains a fair amount of comedy that I think will appeal, weird situations that are on one hand so awkward that you just want to look away, yet are also funny enough to keep you reading. Earle injects a good amount of humour into things, and it definitely makes the book feel really charming and takes the edge off some of the situations. But it's also got some good messages in there too, messages about not trying to hard, about not trying to make weird grand gestures to win someone over, but just being yourself and being confident in who you are. These are hard learned lessons for Marv, but hopefully reading about it will help those picking up the book to get there without so many bumps along the way.
Northern Soul is a bit of a silly, often ridiculous romantic comedy, but one that's quite harmless and even quite charming. It will appeal to older readers who have been there and done that and are glad those days are behind them, and it will likely be loved by those who are going through this difficult time themselves.
March 29, 2025
Laughed out loud at this one.
May 13, 2024
Such a brilliant and quick read!
Phil Earle once again has written an amazingly crafted book with soul - pun intended!
When Marv has his first experience of insta-love he does his best to impress. Unfortunately he doesn't have the skill set to be able to charm or captivate the girl of his dreams... only truly embarrass himself!
He starts listening to some of his Dad's vinyl collection and discovers the soulful lyrics and singing of Otis Redding. These records speak to him and help him see he is not alone...
Really not alone...
When Marv wakes up to find a version of Otis Redding's ghost waiting in his room, waiting to coach him how to win the heart of the girl he longs for, Marv thinks he might have favour on his side.
He writes a love song, he goes to a house party, but STILL everything turns out wrong!
Written with BRILLIANT humour, this really reminds me of the comic skill of Simon James Green and I raced through this book, laughing out loud and having to stop and share bits with those around me as it was too good not too!
Love, love, LOVE this book! READ IT NOW!
Phil Earle once again has written an amazingly crafted book with soul - pun intended!
When Marv has his first experience of insta-love he does his best to impress. Unfortunately he doesn't have the skill set to be able to charm or captivate the girl of his dreams... only truly embarrass himself!
He starts listening to some of his Dad's vinyl collection and discovers the soulful lyrics and singing of Otis Redding. These records speak to him and help him see he is not alone...
Really not alone...
When Marv wakes up to find a version of Otis Redding's ghost waiting in his room, waiting to coach him how to win the heart of the girl he longs for, Marv thinks he might have favour on his side.
He writes a love song, he goes to a house party, but STILL everything turns out wrong!
Written with BRILLIANT humour, this really reminds me of the comic skill of Simon James Green and I raced through this book, laughing out loud and having to stop and share bits with those around me as it was too good not too!
Love, love, LOVE this book! READ IT NOW!
November 4, 2023
Northern Soul is an absolute winner from start to finish .
Marvin lives with his single dad - a croc wearing record shop owner who sells the wrong kind of music.- and spends his spare time playing footie with his pal Jimmy. All this changes with the arrival of Carly- a new girl in class. Marvin is spellbound. Who can he ask for help? His dad isn't much use but Marvin hears a song that hooks him into a world of soul and the voice of Otis Redding. Magically, the figure of Otis appears who offers advice and so begin Marvin's escapades to try and get Carly to at least recognise he exists and at best win her with his "charms"
Phil Earle is a great writer and knows how to reach into the heart of YA readership and create stories full of heart and humour . Marvin's increasing desire and desperation to impress Carly are pitch perfect and his 'failures/humiliations' are palpable- comedic and painful- and certainly those experienced by many teenagers.
This is a book I will certainly recommend for 11-15 year olds and colleagues in KS3 . Perfect for reluctant readers but for anyone who appreciates great story writing. Another winner from the Barrington Stoke book collection.
Marvin lives with his single dad - a croc wearing record shop owner who sells the wrong kind of music.- and spends his spare time playing footie with his pal Jimmy. All this changes with the arrival of Carly- a new girl in class. Marvin is spellbound. Who can he ask for help? His dad isn't much use but Marvin hears a song that hooks him into a world of soul and the voice of Otis Redding. Magically, the figure of Otis appears who offers advice and so begin Marvin's escapades to try and get Carly to at least recognise he exists and at best win her with his "charms"
Phil Earle is a great writer and knows how to reach into the heart of YA readership and create stories full of heart and humour . Marvin's increasing desire and desperation to impress Carly are pitch perfect and his 'failures/humiliations' are palpable- comedic and painful- and certainly those experienced by many teenagers.
This is a book I will certainly recommend for 11-15 year olds and colleagues in KS3 . Perfect for reluctant readers but for anyone who appreciates great story writing. Another winner from the Barrington Stoke book collection.
November 13, 2024
given to me by my english teacher.
i felt like i was simultaneously too old and the perfect age to be reading this, it reminded me of books i read in year 2.
weak story, weak ending. i definitely am not the target demographic of this book. read in 40 mins
i felt like i was simultaneously too old and the perfect age to be reading this, it reminded me of books i read in year 2.
weak story, weak ending. i definitely am not the target demographic of this book. read in 40 mins
June 7, 2024
Marv loves football. He and his mate Jimmy are constantly shooting goals on the pitch, off the pitch and on their gaming screens too. Life is simple. Life is good.
He doesn't take much notice of the moving van in his street. It was no interest to him at all. But when a new girl walks into his classroom the next day, he wishes he took more time to look.
"I swear the second Carly appeared I didn't feel like a rug had been pulled from under my feet. The rug had been set on fire. With me still standing on it."
Marv is swept up in feelings he's never had before. He can't think straight. His entire being is consumed with thoughts of Carly. Jimmy can't understand it, asking him if he's okay on the way home. Something's weird because Marv is too quiet.
But Marv can hardly answer as he doesn't understand it himself. What the heck was happening to him?
At home, his dad is playing one of his old records. He's a little down as sales are down in his record store, so he's playing one of his favourites from the King of Soul - Otis Redding.
Usually, Marv escapes from his dad's cringy music, but somehow the guy singing knew exactly how Marv was feeling since laying eyes on Carly. How could he possibly know? After hours of more Otis Redding, Marv is at his wit's end, calling out for help.
A ghostly visit is the lastly thing he expects, but at least now he can share his thoughts about Carly, and have some help in how to get to know her.
A laugh out loud read for anyone who has been struck by Cupid's bow, fallen in love at first sight, or head over heels for someone. 14 yr old Marv feels like he's been hit by a train full of fireworks after laying his gaze on the new girl at school, who is also now living in his street.
Some spectral help is welcome at first. It's not like he can talk to his Croc-and-sock wearing dad or his best mate Jimmy. Too embarrassing. His new 'friend' suggests all sorts of chat up lines, plans and schemes to woo Marv's crush, with funny, dorky and disastrous results.
The King of Soul really should have stayed on the records Marv's dad plays, and not come to Marv's aid. Marv vows never to play that singer again. There is always other music, and maybe even another girl....?
I really enjoyed this tale of first love, epic fails and growing up. Loved the ending too.
Reading Age 8 - Interest Age 11+
Dyslexic Title
He doesn't take much notice of the moving van in his street. It was no interest to him at all. But when a new girl walks into his classroom the next day, he wishes he took more time to look.
"I swear the second Carly appeared I didn't feel like a rug had been pulled from under my feet. The rug had been set on fire. With me still standing on it."
Marv is swept up in feelings he's never had before. He can't think straight. His entire being is consumed with thoughts of Carly. Jimmy can't understand it, asking him if he's okay on the way home. Something's weird because Marv is too quiet.
But Marv can hardly answer as he doesn't understand it himself. What the heck was happening to him?
At home, his dad is playing one of his old records. He's a little down as sales are down in his record store, so he's playing one of his favourites from the King of Soul - Otis Redding.
Usually, Marv escapes from his dad's cringy music, but somehow the guy singing knew exactly how Marv was feeling since laying eyes on Carly. How could he possibly know? After hours of more Otis Redding, Marv is at his wit's end, calling out for help.
A ghostly visit is the lastly thing he expects, but at least now he can share his thoughts about Carly, and have some help in how to get to know her.
A laugh out loud read for anyone who has been struck by Cupid's bow, fallen in love at first sight, or head over heels for someone. 14 yr old Marv feels like he's been hit by a train full of fireworks after laying his gaze on the new girl at school, who is also now living in his street.
Some spectral help is welcome at first. It's not like he can talk to his Croc-and-sock wearing dad or his best mate Jimmy. Too embarrassing. His new 'friend' suggests all sorts of chat up lines, plans and schemes to woo Marv's crush, with funny, dorky and disastrous results.
The King of Soul really should have stayed on the records Marv's dad plays, and not come to Marv's aid. Marv vows never to play that singer again. There is always other music, and maybe even another girl....?
I really enjoyed this tale of first love, epic fails and growing up. Loved the ending too.
Reading Age 8 - Interest Age 11+
Dyslexic Title
January 7, 2024
Two things happen on the same schoolday for our hero Marv. First, he checks out Carly, the latest newbie into the environment, who has actually recently moved into his road, but he hasn't realised just how drop dead hummina hummina she actually is. Second, he gets home to find his record dealer dad blasting out Otis Redding, and Marv finds the lyrics of the soul legend the ideal thing to convey just how perfect a life with Carly would be. Oh, and one thing happens that night – Otis wakes Marv, and proceeds to eat as much fast food as humanly (or ghostly) possible, and tries to match them together.
This then is a distinctive comedy of embarrassment for Marv – not only does he (and the ghost of Otis) have the most cringe ideas about wooing her, but nothing at all goes right. I think the piece gets it balanced perfectly, as well, as it's not too soppy or sickly-sweet, but you certainly can get to feel for Marv, remembering the days when pop music was telling you how you felt, and wishing all the best for him.
Or you would if you were an adult coming to this, like me – in fact you ought to be something like a fourteen year old with the reading skills of an eleven year old, for that is the specific judgement placed on this by Barrington Stoke, the specialists in dyslexia and other reading issues. It's to look like a decent, hard-hitting teen comedy, but ease the reluctant or 'this is awkward'-declaring reader into the hobby with a more comfortable and appropriately presented publication. That will work, as B Stoke know what they're doing, and the story will work too, as it's got a great sense of what will make teens and tweens cower and cringe, and laugh in response. Four and a half stars.
This then is a distinctive comedy of embarrassment for Marv – not only does he (and the ghost of Otis) have the most cringe ideas about wooing her, but nothing at all goes right. I think the piece gets it balanced perfectly, as well, as it's not too soppy or sickly-sweet, but you certainly can get to feel for Marv, remembering the days when pop music was telling you how you felt, and wishing all the best for him.
Or you would if you were an adult coming to this, like me – in fact you ought to be something like a fourteen year old with the reading skills of an eleven year old, for that is the specific judgement placed on this by Barrington Stoke, the specialists in dyslexia and other reading issues. It's to look like a decent, hard-hitting teen comedy, but ease the reluctant or 'this is awkward'-declaring reader into the hobby with a more comfortable and appropriately presented publication. That will work, as B Stoke know what they're doing, and the story will work too, as it's got a great sense of what will make teens and tweens cower and cringe, and laugh in response. Four and a half stars.
November 19, 2023
Northern Soul: A Heartwarming Ode to Teenage Awkwardness
Phil Earle's "Northern Soul" is a heartwarming and humorous teenager novel that takes readers on a journey through the hilarious and awkward escapades of fourteen-year-old Marvin as he navigates the unpredictable world of young love.
The story revolves around Marvin, an ordinary teenager with an uneventful life cantered around football and his eccentric, croc-wearing single dad. Everything changes with the arrival of Carly, the new girl at school. Marv, captivated by Carly's presence, embarks on a quest to win her heart, seeking guidance from an unexpected source – the soulful voice of Otis Redding, who magically appears to offer advice.
"Northern Soul" is a perfect read for those aged 11-15. Phil Earle successfully captures the essence of adolescence, infusing the story with heart, humour, and relatability. The incorporation of music and imaginative elements enriches the reading experience, making it not just a tale of teenage awkwardness but a delightful exploration of friendship, love, and the unexpected guidance one can find in the soulful notes of Otis Redding. Overall, "Northern Soul" proves to be another winning addition to the Barrington Stoke book collection, offering a perfect blend of entertainment for reluctant readers and those who appreciate the magic of a well-crafted story. I loved listening to Otis Redding while I read the book too.
Phil Earle's "Northern Soul" is a heartwarming and humorous teenager novel that takes readers on a journey through the hilarious and awkward escapades of fourteen-year-old Marvin as he navigates the unpredictable world of young love.
The story revolves around Marvin, an ordinary teenager with an uneventful life cantered around football and his eccentric, croc-wearing single dad. Everything changes with the arrival of Carly, the new girl at school. Marv, captivated by Carly's presence, embarks on a quest to win her heart, seeking guidance from an unexpected source – the soulful voice of Otis Redding, who magically appears to offer advice.
"Northern Soul" is a perfect read for those aged 11-15. Phil Earle successfully captures the essence of adolescence, infusing the story with heart, humour, and relatability. The incorporation of music and imaginative elements enriches the reading experience, making it not just a tale of teenage awkwardness but a delightful exploration of friendship, love, and the unexpected guidance one can find in the soulful notes of Otis Redding. Overall, "Northern Soul" proves to be another winning addition to the Barrington Stoke book collection, offering a perfect blend of entertainment for reluctant readers and those who appreciate the magic of a well-crafted story. I loved listening to Otis Redding while I read the book too.
January 11, 2024
Great little teen fantasy that could have been a full-length novel as well.
Wonderful Barrington Stoke title that I really wanted to see expanded into a full novel, it could have managed it.
This slight book feels complete in itself, from the opening where Marv is trotting through his teenage years, playing football and messing around with his best friend, to the 'Romeo' moment where he sees the girl of his dreams across the crowded room... and on to, of course, where he starts seeing Otis Redding in his bedroom who wants to dole out relationship tips to his lovelorn heart.
What follows is very entertaining ghostly shenanigans as Marv tries to take his new mentor's advice where he can, adding his own Marv-y signature. But will the godfather of soul be enough to win Marv his girl?
Realistic within the confines of the fantasy, the teenage characters felt pretty human and as if they could be kids you know. Loved the Otis idea, and Marv's dad felt very sympathetic (shows I'm nearer his age than Marv's!).
A great title and perfect format for the market.
With thanks to Netgalley for providing a sample reading copy.
Wonderful Barrington Stoke title that I really wanted to see expanded into a full novel, it could have managed it.
This slight book feels complete in itself, from the opening where Marv is trotting through his teenage years, playing football and messing around with his best friend, to the 'Romeo' moment where he sees the girl of his dreams across the crowded room... and on to, of course, where he starts seeing Otis Redding in his bedroom who wants to dole out relationship tips to his lovelorn heart.
What follows is very entertaining ghostly shenanigans as Marv tries to take his new mentor's advice where he can, adding his own Marv-y signature. But will the godfather of soul be enough to win Marv his girl?
Realistic within the confines of the fantasy, the teenage characters felt pretty human and as if they could be kids you know. Loved the Otis idea, and Marv's dad felt very sympathetic (shows I'm nearer his age than Marv's!).
A great title and perfect format for the market.
With thanks to Netgalley for providing a sample reading copy.
November 18, 2023
Northern Soul by Phil Earle is a delightful, comedic middle-grade novel that captures the essence of a fourteen-year-old's first experience with love.
The story revolves around Marv, whose world takes a turn with the arrival of Carly, a new girl at his school. In his earnest pursuit of winning her heart, Marv embarks on a series of humorous escapades. His Crocs-loving dad introduces his to the the soulful music of Otis Redding. This musical influence, coupled with the imaginative appearance of Otis Redding himself, adds a unique and entertaining dimension to Marv's quest for Carly's affections. Alongside his friend Jimmy, Marv finds himself in laugh-out-loud situations.
Overall, this was short and fun middle-grade novel that I would most recommend to teenage boys, who are going through similar things our main character is. I would definitely read more from this author. Also, this book made me listen to Otis Redding, that is always a win.
The story revolves around Marv, whose world takes a turn with the arrival of Carly, a new girl at his school. In his earnest pursuit of winning her heart, Marv embarks on a series of humorous escapades. His Crocs-loving dad introduces his to the the soulful music of Otis Redding. This musical influence, coupled with the imaginative appearance of Otis Redding himself, adds a unique and entertaining dimension to Marv's quest for Carly's affections. Alongside his friend Jimmy, Marv finds himself in laugh-out-loud situations.
Overall, this was short and fun middle-grade novel that I would most recommend to teenage boys, who are going through similar things our main character is. I would definitely read more from this author. Also, this book made me listen to Otis Redding, that is always a win.
November 22, 2023
Northern Soul is a great, humorous read aimed at young teenagers. The story is narrated by Marv who is blindsided by his first romantic crush, having previously been mostly preoccupied with football and larking about with his mate Jimmy, The object of Marv’s affections are new-to-the-neighbourhood/school Carly. After a less than successful initial encounter with Carly on the way home from school, Marv arrives home where his record shop owning and Croc wearing dad is listening to Otis Redding. Moved by the King of Soul’s voice and music and amazed that someone had been able to put exactly how he was feeling into words, Marv frustratedly asks for Otis’s help in winning Carly’s heart. To his surprise - albeit a northern rather than American - Otis appears and offers to help him in his quest. What follows is a series of cringe-inducing and funny incidents - culminating in a meme-worthy game of spin the bottle.
May 20, 2024
Thoroughly entertaining quick read. It's a Barrington Stoke so you know that it is going to be engaging right from the start and not a long book. Poor Marvin (Marv) he desperately pines for Carly, she's way too cool for him and he worships from afar. If only there was a way to win her over and make her see how cool he really is. Marv's Dad, who he considers the most uncool person alive, runs a record shop, when he plays old-school music at home Marv starts to hear the lyrics of the fabulous Otis Reading and is visited by the ghost of the singer. Turns out Otis is messy, loud, irritating and full of largely unhelpful advice when it comes to winning over the girl. Thus begins a comedy of errors.
Fun, a bit silly and really enjoyable. This would be a great read aloud and I can see it appealing to kids up to year 10.
Fun, a bit silly and really enjoyable. This would be a great read aloud and I can see it appealing to kids up to year 10.
October 26, 2024
This is so cute! I sat down and read this early YA story (with dyslexic readability) in one sitting.
It was silly and dun and perfect for its intended age audience. I really liked that this was a boy focused read for those readers, and how it dealt with first crushes, Otis Redding music (the ghost of Otis appears to help him win the girl of his dreams!) and dealing with parents.
It was cringe in the way early teens can and should be, while also showing all the awkward growing up things like getting braces and first kisses etc.
It's also a short read so it's good for those who are getting into reading, and who would be put off if a book was a daunting length.
I liked the ending a lot! It made me smile.
It was silly and dun and perfect for its intended age audience. I really liked that this was a boy focused read for those readers, and how it dealt with first crushes, Otis Redding music (the ghost of Otis appears to help him win the girl of his dreams!) and dealing with parents.
It was cringe in the way early teens can and should be, while also showing all the awkward growing up things like getting braces and first kisses etc.
It's also a short read so it's good for those who are getting into reading, and who would be put off if a book was a daunting length.
I liked the ending a lot! It made me smile.
December 12, 2024
I mean I expected to finish this book in atleast a day! Giving it a 5 stars to a small book felt weird, so I gave it a 4 because it was actually good considering it left me on a cliffhanger. I felt bad for Marv at this point, like your best mate liking your crush like no that isn't bro code at all😭. Otis was well funny aha seeing as he died in the 90s yet he knew who Dua Lipa was😭. Marv's dad was so random, in a way his crocs are so funny, the way they are described. I felt like Marv didn't try hard enough to win Carly but like if he had more potential, he would've 100% got her. The outcome was unexpected but I loved it!!
July 19, 2024
This is a great, short, dyslexia-friendly read for teens. Marv falls instantly under the spell of a new girl at school, but has zero idea of how to approach her. His first attempt ends in disaster and embarrassment. He even asks his seriously uncool father for help - not Marv's best idea ever! And then he is visited by the ghost of Otis Redding, who insists he can help Marv in his quest for the girl of his dreams. Not surprisingly things don't go to plan, but after plenty of gaffs (and a few laughs) Marv does find happiness.
February 6, 2025
It was Ok.
some cringy moments and you did feel for the lad and his angst and trying to woo the girl he really fancied.
I wondered about getting for my grandson, who is 10, but I think he is a little young for him yet.
The story was pretty simplistic, and would probably appeal to a young teen or pre teen lad. But not really for middle aged women. I am not sure why I had it on my 'to read' list!!
Anyhoo, it's very short and I read it in a day.
I have another by the author on my 'to read' list and will definitely give that a go too.
some cringy moments and you did feel for the lad and his angst and trying to woo the girl he really fancied.
I wondered about getting for my grandson, who is 10, but I think he is a little young for him yet.
The story was pretty simplistic, and would probably appeal to a young teen or pre teen lad. But not really for middle aged women. I am not sure why I had it on my 'to read' list!!
Anyhoo, it's very short and I read it in a day.
I have another by the author on my 'to read' list and will definitely give that a go too.
December 2, 2023
A perfectly pitched short read about the agonies of first love, and the power of music. 14 year old Marv has never noticed girls before until bam -Carly walks in to his class. He’s dumbstruck, love at first sight. Can’t speak, can’t move, can’t do anything
His soul music loving dad introduces him to the music of Otis redding, whose heartfelt lyrics and music sum up Marvs feelings perfectly
Phil Earle handles the embarrassment and emotions that ensue absolutely perfectly.
His soul music loving dad introduces him to the music of Otis redding, whose heartfelt lyrics and music sum up Marvs feelings perfectly
Phil Earle handles the embarrassment and emotions that ensue absolutely perfectly.
May 5, 2024
I really enjoyed Phil Earle’s wartime adventure stories for middle graders and was glad to pick up this Barrington Stoke for my intermediates. What a great story of first love, a visitation from Otis Redding to save the day and an oblivious uncool dad. I made the man in front of me on the train turn around because I laughed out loud and it wasn’t a one off. Glorious quick read, I would love someone to read this aloud to a year 7/8 class.
January 4, 2024
Marv is 14 years old and only really interested in football and hanging out with his best friend, Jimmy. Then Carly joins his class and he's smitten but has no idea how to get her attention. Cue Otis Redding with a few useful tips.
Another fantastic and amusing teen book from Phil Earle and Barrington Stoke. Perfect for the secondary school library and for reluctant readers.
Another fantastic and amusing teen book from Phil Earle and Barrington Stoke. Perfect for the secondary school library and for reluctant readers.
February 26, 2024
When Marv meets Carly it is love at first sight, unfortunately he has no game and can only grunt one syllable words at her. Enter the ghost of Otis Redding, King of Soul, (but inexplicably Northern) who assures Marv he'll give him the tips and tools to win Carly over. What could possible go wrong? This is a highly accessible, dyslexia-friendly story and is hilarious and utterly charming!
September 12, 2024
I like that it is written from a teenage boy's viewpoint and that it is dyslexic-friendly and short. Hopefully this will help it appeal to my students. It wasn't for me but I can see it appealing to readers who enjoy cringe humour. It did read more like it was written for KS3 than KS4 even though the main characters are teenagers old enough to have part-time jobs.
November 26, 2023
This was so lovely. It made me laugh, it made me cringe, it made me smile! We’ve all been there - falling in love and having it not QUITE go right! Phil Earle writes gorgeous stories full of heart and I loved how much of an homage to music this is! Just gorgeous!
November 26, 2023
It is a hilarious and heartwarming story about a teenage boy having a crush on a girl. He seeks advice from his father who is not exactly an expert in affairs of the heart.
I absolutely love this.
I absolutely love this.
December 15, 2023
Tremendous story, realistic relatable and hilarious. Totally nails the moment when boys discover girls, and the unintended idiocy that ensues in that situation. It’s not out yet, but I’m already sure this book will be one of the books of 2024. Netgalley arc
June 4, 2024
Dyslexia-friendly
High-interest low-readability (ages 12+, reading age 8+)
I read this in just a few hours.
I laughed, I cringed, I put on some Otis Redding.
This is a story about that awkward teenage first crush made even worse as the ghost of Otis shows up to 'help'.
I'd probably give it 4 stars, but I'll go with 5 because it was such a good representation of a horrible stage of life with a brilliant ending.
High-interest low-readability (ages 12+, reading age 8+)
I read this in just a few hours.
I laughed, I cringed, I put on some Otis Redding.
This is a story about that awkward teenage first crush made even worse as the ghost of Otis shows up to 'help'.
I'd probably give it 4 stars, but I'll go with 5 because it was such a good representation of a horrible stage of life with a brilliant ending.
July 28, 2024
Ahhhh, true love. ❤️
Fab little Barrington Stoke book - funny, well-written, and felt like a complete story in its own right. Some BS stories just trail off, and this was a great exception.
Y9 Y10 Y11
Fab little Barrington Stoke book - funny, well-written, and felt like a complete story in its own right. Some BS stories just trail off, and this was a great exception.
Y9 Y10 Y11
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