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The Backstagers #2
The Backstagers and the Theater of the Ancients
After all the backstage ghost drama during Phantasm, things are quiet for the Backstagers of the St. Genesius School Drama Club. Too quiet. But when that quiet is filled by a mysterious voice that haunts the Backstagers day and night, they set off on a globetrotting adventure to discover the ancient secrets of the legendary artifacts of the theater. Can they solve the mystery in time to open their production of the rock musical Tammy? Each Backstager brings unique skills to the team: Mischievous Sasha is impossibly positive; no-nonsense Aziz makes sure everything runs smoothly; whiz-kid Beckett is a perfectionist through and through; flirtatious Hunter knows the backstage better than anyone; and sweet Jory can think his way through any problem. Effortlessly inclusive and full of adventure, The Backstagers and the Theater of the Ancients is sure to have readers calling, “Encore!”
Audio CD
First published January 1, 2019
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About the author
Andy Mientus
4 books94 followersAndy Mientus is an actor, musician and writer best known for starring in the Broadway musicals Spring Awakening, Les Miserables, and Wicked, and on television in the NBC musical drama “Smash” and as Hartley Rathaway aka The Pied Piper in the hit CW series “The Flash”. Andy co-wrote the new musical Burn All Night which had its world premiere at Oberon/American Repertory Theater at Harvard University.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
December 22, 2019
The Backstagers get caught up in a plot to steal a magical artefact that Jory has in his possession. The musical the kids are performing this time is Tammy (not Tommy), a show that is all about inclusivity, the underlying theme to the second novel in the series.
February 3, 2019
"The Backstagers" is an unashamed love letter to theatre, with some ghosts and supernatural activity thrown in, and I love it. Once again, this latest installment in the Backstagers series combines an interesting fighting the supernatural plot with the process of running the latest school show. "Tammy" is a very obvious reference to "Tommy" and knowing the show quite well, I had fun picking up the different references to how they were staging the production. This book also starts getting into the overarching plot of the series, which looks very promising. Secret society trying to "make theatre pure again"? Yep, definitely a great antagonist there. What I particularly enjoyed, though, was the light-hearted way in which the book approaches serious issues such as Jory's depression or how deaf parts should be played by deaf actors. I look forward to seeing how the plot continues to unfold.
Thank you Netgalley for giving me an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you Netgalley for giving me an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 16, 2019
The stage crew from St. Genesius Prep have just wrapped up the ghost drama “Phantasm” and are about to tackle a version of the rock opera “Tammy” with a deaf actor in the lead role. The mysterious Designer’s Notebook that Jory inherited seems to have caught the attention of some sinister forces. It is all the Backstagers can do to keep it away from them.
The writing is simply awful. It would probably be better appreciated if you have read all of the graphic novel series or the 1st in this series. Mientus recaps the characters in the first chapter. The checklist of characters has it all – straight couple, gay couple, trans. Each person experiences extreme drama outside of the theater and backstage. This aspect made the book feel forced and stereotypical, as if trying to offer something to everyone. Add the fantasy/paranormal element and it totally is over the top. I will admit, as a theater lover, I did enjoy the theater puns.
I detected a typo on p. 8, 1st paragraph. Jamie is described as “brunet”; isn’t it “brunette”?
The color cover and occasional two-color interior artwork by Rian Sygh (who helped with artwork in the comic book series Backstagers) make this look like it is for upper elementary-aged readers, yet these kids are juniors and seniors in high school, some preparing to graduate. Jamie is described as having a “bushy beard”. Each character reads much younger in age and maturity. I began to wonder is this intended for a hi/lo reading audience?
Fans of the series, fans of Andy Mientus and Tim Federle (and his books), kids heavy into theater or show choir, LGBTQ, or tweens who just feel isolated and don’t fit in anywhere else may find this fun. While I consider myself an eclectic reader, this is definitely not my cup of tea.
Optional Purchase for grades 6-8.
The writing is simply awful. It would probably be better appreciated if you have read all of the graphic novel series or the 1st in this series. Mientus recaps the characters in the first chapter. The checklist of characters has it all – straight couple, gay couple, trans. Each person experiences extreme drama outside of the theater and backstage. This aspect made the book feel forced and stereotypical, as if trying to offer something to everyone. Add the fantasy/paranormal element and it totally is over the top. I will admit, as a theater lover, I did enjoy the theater puns.
I detected a typo on p. 8, 1st paragraph. Jamie is described as “brunet”; isn’t it “brunette”?
The color cover and occasional two-color interior artwork by Rian Sygh (who helped with artwork in the comic book series Backstagers) make this look like it is for upper elementary-aged readers, yet these kids are juniors and seniors in high school, some preparing to graduate. Jamie is described as having a “bushy beard”. Each character reads much younger in age and maturity. I began to wonder is this intended for a hi/lo reading audience?
Fans of the series, fans of Andy Mientus and Tim Federle (and his books), kids heavy into theater or show choir, LGBTQ, or tweens who just feel isolated and don’t fit in anywhere else may find this fun. While I consider myself an eclectic reader, this is definitely not my cup of tea.
Optional Purchase for grades 6-8.
October 1, 2025
*I received an e-arc from netgalley and the publisher. This does not affect my review.*
[4.5 stars]
Like every other Backstagers book/comic, this was fantastic. It remains entertaining, and adorable, and diverse. In this book they put on a play where the main character is Deaf and they make a point to have the original actress drop out so a Deaf actress can take her place. Such awesome rep! The only reason I docked it half a start is I felt like some of the magic was missing because Jory seemed so separate from the rest of the Backstagers, it all comes together in the end, and it was necessary to the plot, but it made me sad. If you haven't read anything about The Backstagers yet, GET ON IT!!!
[4.5 stars]
Like every other Backstagers book/comic, this was fantastic. It remains entertaining, and adorable, and diverse. In this book they put on a play where the main character is Deaf and they make a point to have the original actress drop out so a Deaf actress can take her place. Such awesome rep! The only reason I docked it half a start is I felt like some of the magic was missing because Jory seemed so separate from the rest of the Backstagers, it all comes together in the end, and it was necessary to the plot, but it made me sad. If you haven't read anything about The Backstagers yet, GET ON IT!!!
September 10, 2019
I picked this one up shortly after I finished the previous book and was not let down in this one either. Fantastically imaginative and fun.
In this novel, the Backstagers are putting on a show called Tammy, where the main characters is deaf. I loved the idea of having an actual deaf person playing the lead in a play, super inclusive!
Technology plays a massive role in this novel as well. It shows how much we seem to rely on it to make our lives look perfect, when in reality we all know that's far from the truth.
Not to mention the fact that all of a sudden there's a secret society who's be-all end-all is to make theater "pure" again. Spooky!
In this novel, the Backstagers are putting on a show called Tammy, where the main characters is deaf. I loved the idea of having an actual deaf person playing the lead in a play, super inclusive!
Technology plays a massive role in this novel as well. It shows how much we seem to rely on it to make our lives look perfect, when in reality we all know that's far from the truth.
Not to mention the fact that all of a sudden there's a secret society who's be-all end-all is to make theater "pure" again. Spooky!
March 19, 2019
Disclaimer: I received an eARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to Netgalley!
Review originally published on my blog, Books and Big Ideas
I read and reviewed the first Backstagers book last year and I’ve been looking forward to the sequels, and here we are! These books, written by Broadway actor Andy Mientus, are actually a continuation from a comics series that I haven’t read yet. Because of this, it took me a little bit to become accustomed to the fantasy world and alternate reality, and while the second book contains enough background information it can be read on its own, I still found it easier to jump into. I also think the worldbuilding is also more frontloaded in this one by way of catching readers up.
This book is explicitly inspired by Andy’s experience in the Deaf West production of Spring Awakening (apparently the final copy is dedicated to that) and it propels the plot of the whole series in a very interesting and important direction. This book introduces Adrienne (who apparently does appear in the comics), a Deaf girl who uses both hearing aids and ASL. Bailey, the girl always cast as the lead, is cast in Tammy (the rock musical about a Deaf girl who becomes a Skee-Ball star…sound familiar? I also love how Andy wrote about the representation issues he noticed in Tommy when he was literally playing the lead role) as the lead role, but through Adrienne the group realizes that hearing actors playing deaf often botch ASL and there are so few opportunities for Deaf actors. And Adrienne has always wanted to be on stage…she just has never had the opportunity, and as she’s Deaf her singing isn’t comparable to hearing actors. So they construct a way for her to play Tammy while Bailey sings for her and provides cues on stage, very much like Deaf West’s Spring Awakening, and this impacts other technical elements as well.
But not everyone is thrilled, and I won’t spoil it, but this leads to a more specific introduction to the villains of the whole series and their motivations…of making theater pure again, less inclusive and not embracing of new technology. (Totally fictional, right?)
Meanwhile, Jory starts suffering from voices in his head–anxiety that leads to panic attacks and depression. His newfound fame on social media (“Instasnap”) makes it worse. He sets off on his own journey, and this makes his relationship with Hunter, the rest of the Backstagers, and also impinges his work with Tammy as costume designer. He can’t seem to believe his designs are good anymore, and he struggles to get out of bed. All of this was absolutely relatable, and I’m just SO HAPPY this is included in a middle grade book. There is a particular moment where therapy is discussed and THAT is so important. One of the Backstagers thinks that the voice might be something fantastical like so much of what they encounter, but no…it’s just a very real problem we all in the real world might face.
Some other things I liked: references to Greek theater, students enthusiastically learning ASL with a teacher named Mrs. Matlin, Jory and Hunter dealing with real relationship issues any couple could have in a way appropriate for ten year olds (we often don’t see much of this with queer relationships, and especially not for this age range), the Muse spirit character described with they/them pronouns, a reference to the musical Companions about how awful marriage is, the Adrienne and Bailey friendship, Aziz learning ASL for Adrienne, inclusion of specific ASL signs in the text and illustrations, the witch kid from the first book who still cracks me up…basically, I LOVED THIS BOOK. Even more than the first one, which I did really enjoy!! Now I need to find a finished copy and see the finished illustrations from Ryan Sygh…
Review originally published on my blog, Books and Big Ideas
I read and reviewed the first Backstagers book last year and I’ve been looking forward to the sequels, and here we are! These books, written by Broadway actor Andy Mientus, are actually a continuation from a comics series that I haven’t read yet. Because of this, it took me a little bit to become accustomed to the fantasy world and alternate reality, and while the second book contains enough background information it can be read on its own, I still found it easier to jump into. I also think the worldbuilding is also more frontloaded in this one by way of catching readers up.
This book is explicitly inspired by Andy’s experience in the Deaf West production of Spring Awakening (apparently the final copy is dedicated to that) and it propels the plot of the whole series in a very interesting and important direction. This book introduces Adrienne (who apparently does appear in the comics), a Deaf girl who uses both hearing aids and ASL. Bailey, the girl always cast as the lead, is cast in Tammy (the rock musical about a Deaf girl who becomes a Skee-Ball star…sound familiar? I also love how Andy wrote about the representation issues he noticed in Tommy when he was literally playing the lead role) as the lead role, but through Adrienne the group realizes that hearing actors playing deaf often botch ASL and there are so few opportunities for Deaf actors. And Adrienne has always wanted to be on stage…she just has never had the opportunity, and as she’s Deaf her singing isn’t comparable to hearing actors. So they construct a way for her to play Tammy while Bailey sings for her and provides cues on stage, very much like Deaf West’s Spring Awakening, and this impacts other technical elements as well.
But not everyone is thrilled, and I won’t spoil it, but this leads to a more specific introduction to the villains of the whole series and their motivations…of making theater pure again, less inclusive and not embracing of new technology. (Totally fictional, right?)
Meanwhile, Jory starts suffering from voices in his head–anxiety that leads to panic attacks and depression. His newfound fame on social media (“Instasnap”) makes it worse. He sets off on his own journey, and this makes his relationship with Hunter, the rest of the Backstagers, and also impinges his work with Tammy as costume designer. He can’t seem to believe his designs are good anymore, and he struggles to get out of bed. All of this was absolutely relatable, and I’m just SO HAPPY this is included in a middle grade book. There is a particular moment where therapy is discussed and THAT is so important. One of the Backstagers thinks that the voice might be something fantastical like so much of what they encounter, but no…it’s just a very real problem we all in the real world might face.
Some other things I liked: references to Greek theater, students enthusiastically learning ASL with a teacher named Mrs. Matlin, Jory and Hunter dealing with real relationship issues any couple could have in a way appropriate for ten year olds (we often don’t see much of this with queer relationships, and especially not for this age range), the Muse spirit character described with they/them pronouns, a reference to the musical Companions about how awful marriage is, the Adrienne and Bailey friendship, Aziz learning ASL for Adrienne, inclusion of specific ASL signs in the text and illustrations, the witch kid from the first book who still cracks me up…basically, I LOVED THIS BOOK. Even more than the first one, which I did really enjoy!! Now I need to find a finished copy and see the finished illustrations from Ryan Sygh…
February 2, 2020
This is the second book in the Backstagers series, a junior fiction series based on the comics by the same name, and all of our favorite characters from the first book are back, including Reo, our loveable witch.
In this story, our characters are putting on a play called Tammy, a rock-opera that revolves around a deaf girl who is a whiz at the Skee-Ball game. This may ring a bell for those of you who are familiar with Tommy.
What’s lovely about this particular production is that Beckett, who’s directing the play, has chosen a Deaf actress to play the part, with the goal of inclusivity in mind. So there’s again excellent representation in this story. I love the inclusivity here and the underlying theme here that everyone belongs, that nobody should be unseen.
The main intrigue revolves around a magical artifact that’s in Jory’s possession. We’re also introduced to a villainous secret society whose goal is to “make theater pure again”; that is to say, make it less reliant on technology and less inclusive, pretty much contrary to everything the Backstages believe in and strive for. And one of the characters in the book ends up getting sucked right into their evil scheme, lending plenty of intrigue to the story. We’re even introduced to a real live Muse in this book as well as to seven legendary artifacts that will no doubt make an appearance in future books (as will the villains, I’m guessing).
I can’t comment on the artwork in this book because I read an ARC copy, and none of the art was put in....all the pages that will contain illustrations are left blank. I thought it was kind of strange that the artwork wasn’t included in an ARC given that it helps to tell the story. I don’t recall this in other ARCs I’ve read.
I ended up loving this story as much as the first one. This is such a smart story, an eye-opening account of letting go of prejudices and seeing beyond what we think we know. It’s a story of inclusivity, belonging, and the bonds of friendship, as well as casting off shame and stigma.
As with the first book, the characters here are vivid and wonderfully rendered, especially Jory, who broke my heart as he struggled through some heavy emotions but ultimately, found healing. So here again, the author mixes a creepy paranormal tale with hard-hitting, real-world issues that’s brimming with personality, and it works wonderfully.
I love the magical world that Mr. Mientus has created here and can’t wait to continue on with this series.
In this story, our characters are putting on a play called Tammy, a rock-opera that revolves around a deaf girl who is a whiz at the Skee-Ball game. This may ring a bell for those of you who are familiar with Tommy.
What’s lovely about this particular production is that Beckett, who’s directing the play, has chosen a Deaf actress to play the part, with the goal of inclusivity in mind. So there’s again excellent representation in this story. I love the inclusivity here and the underlying theme here that everyone belongs, that nobody should be unseen.
The main intrigue revolves around a magical artifact that’s in Jory’s possession. We’re also introduced to a villainous secret society whose goal is to “make theater pure again”; that is to say, make it less reliant on technology and less inclusive, pretty much contrary to everything the Backstages believe in and strive for. And one of the characters in the book ends up getting sucked right into their evil scheme, lending plenty of intrigue to the story. We’re even introduced to a real live Muse in this book as well as to seven legendary artifacts that will no doubt make an appearance in future books (as will the villains, I’m guessing).
I can’t comment on the artwork in this book because I read an ARC copy, and none of the art was put in....all the pages that will contain illustrations are left blank. I thought it was kind of strange that the artwork wasn’t included in an ARC given that it helps to tell the story. I don’t recall this in other ARCs I’ve read.
I ended up loving this story as much as the first one. This is such a smart story, an eye-opening account of letting go of prejudices and seeing beyond what we think we know. It’s a story of inclusivity, belonging, and the bonds of friendship, as well as casting off shame and stigma.
As with the first book, the characters here are vivid and wonderfully rendered, especially Jory, who broke my heart as he struggled through some heavy emotions but ultimately, found healing. So here again, the author mixes a creepy paranormal tale with hard-hitting, real-world issues that’s brimming with personality, and it works wonderfully.
I love the magical world that Mr. Mientus has created here and can’t wait to continue on with this series.
April 7, 2019
Each and every moment of the show had been reimagined to highlight the overall message of the piece: how growing up feeling unseen and unheard can negatively impact a person for their entire life, but the things that makes them feel alien in the world can also be the very thing that ends up making them star.
Read it in one go, because how could I not? Engaging from beginning to end, I've come to care for each of these amazing and unique characters. How they have grown! I'm impressed and proud of them.
This book doesn't allow you to put it down to take a break because you need to know how it is going to end, if our beloved backstagers are going to end up victorious in yet an another weird magical misadventure.
The play in this book is simply marvelous; inclusive, diverse, emotional. This is exactly what the real world needs: more inclusivity, in order for kids all around the world to know they belong, that they're not defective, wrong or whatever awful thing they hear people call them all the time. They need places to be "heard"! And the theater is one of these places.
I already knew about Andy Mientus and Deaf West, and I was so happy when I read this book's dedication. My sister did her master's thesis on sign language and, as much as there's been a lot of progress since the past, there's still a long way to go. Changing the so-called traditions is just one thing the world can do to evolve and be better.
The next book sounds great! October 1st can't come soon enough!
Read it in one go, because how could I not? Engaging from beginning to end, I've come to care for each of these amazing and unique characters. How they have grown! I'm impressed and proud of them.
This book doesn't allow you to put it down to take a break because you need to know how it is going to end, if our beloved backstagers are going to end up victorious in yet an another weird magical misadventure.
The play in this book is simply marvelous; inclusive, diverse, emotional. This is exactly what the real world needs: more inclusivity, in order for kids all around the world to know they belong, that they're not defective, wrong or whatever awful thing they hear people call them all the time. They need places to be "heard"! And the theater is one of these places.
I already knew about Andy Mientus and Deaf West, and I was so happy when I read this book's dedication. My sister did her master's thesis on sign language and, as much as there's been a lot of progress since the past, there's still a long way to go. Changing the so-called traditions is just one thing the world can do to evolve and be better.
The next book sounds great! October 1st can't come soon enough!
May 18, 2019
Read as part of the PopSugar Reading Challenge 2019, to fill 3) A book written by a musician.
I'm disappointed. I liked the first book, and I've read the comics and loved those, so I don't know why this is so different. This book feels significantly less cared for, like we've hooked them in on the comics and first book being good, now we can phone it in, which is just... yeah, disappointing.
The comics are full of so much character. Everyone plays their part and has a reason for being. This book was basically just Jory being uncharacteristically dickish, and the others being mostly pushed to the background.
It also felt to me like it lost its focus. This series is literally called The Backstagers, but so much of this book was just Jory on his own dumb adventure outside the Backstage. I don't know. This is a kids' book, maybe I shouldn't be so nitpicky. It is teaching Very Important Lessons, after all (like, .) But ugh.
The editing could have also done with some work, with the author misspelling 'coif' as 'quaff', and 'blocking' as 'bocking'.
It just didn't feel polished, and I'm sad. I'll probably get the next one when it comes out, but if it's as disappointing as this one, I'll be back to just the comics and pretend this novelisation series doesn't exist.
I'm disappointed. I liked the first book, and I've read the comics and loved those, so I don't know why this is so different. This book feels significantly less cared for, like we've hooked them in on the comics and first book being good, now we can phone it in, which is just... yeah, disappointing.
The comics are full of so much character. Everyone plays their part and has a reason for being. This book was basically just Jory being uncharacteristically dickish, and the others being mostly pushed to the background.
It also felt to me like it lost its focus. This series is literally called The Backstagers, but so much of this book was just Jory on his own dumb adventure outside the Backstage. I don't know. This is a kids' book, maybe I shouldn't be so nitpicky. It is teaching Very Important Lessons, after all (like, .) But ugh.
The editing could have also done with some work, with the author misspelling 'coif' as 'quaff', and 'blocking' as 'bocking'.
It just didn't feel polished, and I'm sad. I'll probably get the next one when it comes out, but if it's as disappointing as this one, I'll be back to just the comics and pretend this novelisation series doesn't exist.
June 27, 2020
5/5
OHMYGOSH!!!!! This was even better than The Ghost Light. I am overwhelmed with how beautifully amazing this was. The audiobook read by the author is the best audio I’ve ever listened to, probably helped that the author is a broadway star.
This story is so important for the two big themes it addresses.
A deaf lead character in a musical actually getting to be played by a deaf actor.... that’s huge. Add in the fact that this book went above and beyond with is deaf rep, it actually described the signs, the cast got lessons on signing, Aziz is an adorable boyfriend for wanting to learn to sign properly, and absolutely everything that Adrienne is was perfection. I mean she basically saved the day!!
Then there was Jory’s storyline which nearly tore my heart in two but was so important. Kids needs to know that those dark thoughts exist and that it’s okay to feel them and know they aren’t alone. They need to know that there are always people out there that want to help them and be there for them. I am overcome with how important this message is. Also that not-at-all subtle jab toward social media ruining self esteem, well played.
I’m super proud of the crew for stepping into their new roles and kicking ass! Also the McQueen twins separating and being their own people was fantastic.
This whole seven artefacts of the backstage is super freaking interesting and I can’t wait to see where it goes!!! I will never not love these comics and books.
OHMYGOSH!!!!! This was even better than The Ghost Light. I am overwhelmed with how beautifully amazing this was. The audiobook read by the author is the best audio I’ve ever listened to, probably helped that the author is a broadway star.
This story is so important for the two big themes it addresses.
A deaf lead character in a musical actually getting to be played by a deaf actor.... that’s huge. Add in the fact that this book went above and beyond with is deaf rep, it actually described the signs, the cast got lessons on signing, Aziz is an adorable boyfriend for wanting to learn to sign properly, and absolutely everything that Adrienne is was perfection. I mean she basically saved the day!!
Then there was Jory’s storyline which nearly tore my heart in two but was so important. Kids needs to know that those dark thoughts exist and that it’s okay to feel them and know they aren’t alone. They need to know that there are always people out there that want to help them and be there for them. I am overcome with how important this message is. Also that not-at-all subtle jab toward social media ruining self esteem, well played.
I’m super proud of the crew for stepping into their new roles and kicking ass! Also the McQueen twins separating and being their own people was fantastic.
This whole seven artefacts of the backstage is super freaking interesting and I can’t wait to see where it goes!!! I will never not love these comics and books.
April 11, 2019
For the second time, the Backstagers of St. Genesius Prep overcome a challenge related to the paranormal world beyond the Unsafe door while at the same time staging their school’s musical. This time the musical is Tammy, a rock opera with a Deaf lead. They break new ground by recruiting a Deaf teen, Adrienne, to play the part. Meanwhile, the Backstagers (regularly joined now by male witch, Reo and girls from neighboring schools, Bailey and Adrienne) are troubled by Jory’s strangely withdrawn behavior. In a great example of what could be said to help a suffering friend, an email from Beckett eventually opens the door for Jory’s healing. The foundation for further adventures is firmly in place which is a good thing, since it was a pleasure to spend time reading about these young people who are not perfect, but are ultimately accepting of their own and each other’s imperfections. Recommended especially for those who participate in theatre productions as well as preteens and teens looking for books that include LGBTQ characters.
June 18, 2019
3.5, for some ooc choices.
While I found this in the Young Adult section of the library, it definitely reads more middle-grade akin to the Lumberjanes book series. However, we get most of our set-dressing (wah-wah-wah) out of the way in the first chapters, with the rest of the book devoted to the main plot.
Moving at breakneck speed, we get a lot of bad decisions off the bat. Remember in the last book when none of the Backstagers shared anything that was going on until the end, and if they had just spoken with each other and used The Power of Friendship everything would be ok? Yeah, that happens again a lot here.
I did, however, love the message about social media addiction and connecting with others.
While I found this in the Young Adult section of the library, it definitely reads more middle-grade akin to the Lumberjanes book series. However, we get most of our set-dressing (wah-wah-wah) out of the way in the first chapters, with the rest of the book devoted to the main plot.
Moving at breakneck speed, we get a lot of bad decisions off the bat. Remember in the last book when none of the Backstagers shared anything that was going on until the end, and if they had just spoken with each other and used The Power of Friendship everything would be ok? Yeah, that happens again a lot here.
I did, however, love the message about social media addiction and connecting with others.
August 19, 2019
I just love Andy's writing so much. The subtle references to his professional life and the shows he did are so cute and I loved that he included a deaf/hoh narrative in the book. This is the second installement in a trilogy, the overall plot is really starting to unravel itself and I couldn't put the book down. I can't wait for the third book but at the same time I'm not ready for this beautiful world of theater and magic to end.
April 4, 2022
Probably more a 4.5 star. I didn’t love it quite as much of the first, but even though the theme was very driven to highlighting the drawbacks of a world so tied up in social media interactions (something I agree with), it removed from some of the natural flow I felt in the story of book one.
On the other hand though, pushing so many boundaries toward inclusivity in such a beautiful way had me in tears for the ending, so it still ranks high for ratings in my book. Can’t wait for book 3 now!
On the other hand though, pushing so many boundaries toward inclusivity in such a beautiful way had me in tears for the ending, so it still ranks high for ratings in my book. Can’t wait for book 3 now!
March 27, 2019
I liked this one better than the first book. Mind you, that's probably because until I was halfway through the last book I didn't realise that it was a continuation of a comic book and had to stop and read all those.
I also really liked the little ASL diagrams that were sprinkled throughout. That way I can learn a few words that are useful and not the words to Jonathan Coulton songs.
I also really liked the little ASL diagrams that were sprinkled throughout. That way I can learn a few words that are useful and not the words to Jonathan Coulton songs.
April 3, 2019
I LOVE this series!
It is so inclusive, fun, and tackles 2019 teen issues wonderfully.
I loved that Adrienne taught the reader some signs in Sign Language, and that they talked about mental health, especially related to social media.
I seriously love this series so much. I can't get enough, praise it enough, or recommend it enough!
It is so inclusive, fun, and tackles 2019 teen issues wonderfully.
I loved that Adrienne taught the reader some signs in Sign Language, and that they talked about mental health, especially related to social media.
I seriously love this series so much. I can't get enough, praise it enough, or recommend it enough!
September 4, 2019
Short and sweet, this second visit to the Backstagers world expands on the idea of the seven legendary artifacts from the first novel as well as introducing some 'villains' that will likely persist into the third book. Despite the short page count, the story feels complete, and the characters all go on a surprisingly deep journey as they discover what theatre truly means to them.
April 2, 2019
I enjoyed how self-doubt was depicted in this one. I guess this just felt a bit more cliched. I will have to say that the representation of deafness made me very happy as did some of the relationships. I'll have a full review up soon.
April 25, 2019
Another great edition to this storyline. Can’t wait to see what happens next! Looks like the McQueen twins will be separated and will be at odds with one another for a little bit longer.
Can’t wait for the next book!
Can’t wait for the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2019
Truly wonderful. As someone involved in the theatre professionally, this book spoke to the importance of theatre being for everyone. It also dealt well with anxiety, something I know can be hard to talk about. And through all that, still remained fun.
October 15, 2023
The Backstagers and the Theater of Ancients
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (3/5) or 6.57/10 overall
Characters - 7
Atmosphere - 7
Writing - 7
Plot - 7
Intrigue - 6
Logic - 6
Enjoyment - 6
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (3/5) or 6.57/10 overall
Characters - 7
Atmosphere - 7
Writing - 7
Plot - 7
Intrigue - 6
Logic - 6
Enjoyment - 6
April 8, 2019
It's hard to adapt a story from graphic novel to just... novel, but this story is still cute and the characters still appealing
October 29, 2019
So cute, lil didactic.
June 17, 2020
Seven word review = teen drama tome gives lonely students home.
October 29, 2020
Still super cute and fun!
July 31, 2022
I love everything about the backstagers. Including this book. =) -23:55
October 10, 2023
I loved that this book was a nod to the author's work on the cast of Deaf West's Spring Awakening. It was interesting and fun getting a small look at what the creative process might have been like.
April 18, 2021
I talk about my thoughts on this novel in this BookTube video.
February 9, 2020
This book was dedicated to the cast of Deaf West's Spring Awakening, and written by Andy Mientus. Because of this, I was eager to read the D/deaf representation, especially. Knowing that Mientus did have input from a couple of DWSA castmates on the D/deaf character did show, as the representation was stronger than I'm used to. Still Adrienne read a bit like token representation. She's very much on the outside of the group and she didn't have much say over what happened to her. I did like reading how the characters adapted for her, showing that it is possible to include others in theatre productions. (An especially good message for kids!) The mental health representation, on the other hand, did feel quite authentic and that character was quite layered. A good read.
November 29, 2023
very quick read but a great set in the series looking forward to the last one being delivered.
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