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Try Hard: Creative Work in Progress
Funny, conversational, and relatable, Try Hard is for anyone looking to make sense of their own creative pursuit, offering a framework for how to do it and where to begin.
Let’s say you see a familiar musician from a globe-trotting, touring band hanging out at your local coffee shop, reading the newspaper and typing away on his laptop. This doesn’t look like a musician at work. He seems approachable enough, so you ask him what exactly he does all day. With a grin on his face, he admits the job might not be what you think. So you take a seat, and ask him every question you’ve ever had about how it all the nuts and bolts of writing a song, preparing for a show, marketing a band, and the day-to-day business of a creative life.
With each answer—none of it about talent—you realize this musician is a bit of a…try hard. That the mystery of being a creative person isn’t actually mysterious at it’s just exploring ideas with an enthusiastic and determined curiosity. Over and over.
Max is that musician in the coffee shop, and this is what reading Try Hard feels one-of-a-kind tales from a dynamic frontman, and a companion to your own creative work in progress. With a brick-by-brick attitude, Max explores his own growth in the craft of storytelling and performance, the pleasure to be found in collaboration, and the creative spirit required in sharing your art.
Let’s say you see a familiar musician from a globe-trotting, touring band hanging out at your local coffee shop, reading the newspaper and typing away on his laptop. This doesn’t look like a musician at work. He seems approachable enough, so you ask him what exactly he does all day. With a grin on his face, he admits the job might not be what you think. So you take a seat, and ask him every question you’ve ever had about how it all the nuts and bolts of writing a song, preparing for a show, marketing a band, and the day-to-day business of a creative life.
With each answer—none of it about talent—you realize this musician is a bit of a…try hard. That the mystery of being a creative person isn’t actually mysterious at it’s just exploring ideas with an enthusiastic and determined curiosity. Over and over.
Max is that musician in the coffee shop, and this is what reading Try Hard feels one-of-a-kind tales from a dynamic frontman, and a companion to your own creative work in progress. With a brick-by-brick attitude, Max explores his own growth in the craft of storytelling and performance, the pleasure to be found in collaboration, and the creative spirit required in sharing your art.
240 pages, Hardcover
Published April 22, 2025
86 people are currently reading
639 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
April 24, 2025
Truthfully I think Max could write out his coffee order 500 times and I’d read it, but this really was a fabulous debut.
April 26, 2025
An insightful and enjoyable debut from Max Kerman! As a big fan of the Arkells and a proud Hamiltonian, I was really excited to dig into this one. Initial marketing of the book made me think this would be more of a “how to get started creatively/overcome creative blunders” in the likes of a Stephen King book he quoted. And while this was touched on in a broader way, it was much more of a chronicle of short life experiences, band experiences, and more that ladder up to the common themes of creativity and “trying hard”. Either way, I really enjoyed Max’s perspective on moments I had enjoyed as a fan, and that it also went far beyond the music to the memories that made Max the brilliant artist and amazing person I assume that he is. It was a quick read, likely because I was enjoying it so much. I really hope down the line Max produces more material as it was light hearted, engaging, and very interesting to read. Well done Max, we can’t wait to see what your creativity will allow you to do next 🎸🤘🏼
October 4, 2025
This was less of a guide to creative work and more of a memoir with some tips along the way. I love reading about musicians and Max seems to be such a genuine guy that this was a really fun read. Don’t get me wrong there was plenty of advice in this book. It was his stories about Arkells becoming what it is now that made the book interesting. Less of a step-by-step and more of a learn from my experiences.
June 14, 2025
Finished reading this book the day after seeing quite literally the most boring band I’ve ever seen in my life, and this book as rekindled my deep deep appreciation for the Arkells and their showmanship. Max explored the depths of his personal creative repository in prose that was so conversational and clear and accessible. Really fun easy read.
March 12, 2025
Max’s breakout book “Try Hard” makes me remember why I love the Arkells so much!!! Not only does he aptly describe moments & memories about growing up in Hamilton & the surrounding area, but he makes me feel so nostalgic for my home!!
From vying to play at the legendary Casbah in Hamilton, to reminiscing on Kawhi’s legendary 3 pointer, this book felt like a warm hug.
Congrats Max on your first book!! Hoping for another Rally this summer to cheer you guys on once again!🤞
From vying to play at the legendary Casbah in Hamilton, to reminiscing on Kawhi’s legendary 3 pointer, this book felt like a warm hug.
Congrats Max on your first book!! Hoping for another Rally this summer to cheer you guys on once again!🤞
May 1, 2025
Very readable, with short chapters that read like musings on creativity. It's not in any discernable order. Fun little anecdotes on the life of a musician, being in a band. I'm a fan of Arkells and have seen Max walking around, so it's nice to read about his life in Toronto.
Otherwise I didn't read anything memorable but it was a short fun read.
Otherwise I didn't read anything memorable but it was a short fun read.
April 7, 2025
It was inspiring to read about the creative process, and how much it helps to try things differently with new techniques to see what fits. We can all learn a lot from that - to work hard, pivot when you have to, and always, always surround yourself with good people.
The band insider info was great too. I still remember when my sister invited the band to party with us at her wedding, after they played a local show the same night. They couldn’t make it but sent a wedding card signed by every member. Who does that?
I also loved the chapter length. It was like listening to an artist talk at the MuchMusic Intimate and Interactive events.
The Advanced Review Copy (ARC) was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The band insider info was great too. I still remember when my sister invited the band to party with us at her wedding, after they played a local show the same night. They couldn’t make it but sent a wedding card signed by every member. Who does that?
I also loved the chapter length. It was like listening to an artist talk at the MuchMusic Intimate and Interactive events.
The Advanced Review Copy (ARC) was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2025
❤️ all of the HamOnt and McMaster references (obviously) and cool insights into the writing of some of the Arkells hits
September 21, 2025
I’ve been a fan of the Arkells for years so I was interested to get a behind the scenes look at the band and learn more about Max.
This collection of essays is well written but they all seemed to be justification for Max’s ego and over inflated sense of self-importance. I wish he would just own that he is a frontman in every sense of the word and acknowledge that the band did, in fact, sell out.
Audiobook 🎧
This collection of essays is well written but they all seemed to be justification for Max’s ego and over inflated sense of self-importance. I wish he would just own that he is a frontman in every sense of the word and acknowledge that the band did, in fact, sell out.
Audiobook 🎧
July 13, 2025
The Arkells were my favourite Canadian band in my early 20s - you know the time period when you have a little bit of flexibility? The 'why wouldn't I drive to the cottage and see a band I like at the lake?" Or "let's go visit our friends at Queens and see Arkells in Kingston!" That time period. I've seen Arkells more times than I can count all over North America and loved every show, so I was really excited for this book. Plus, as a Canadian living in the States it's always a treat to soak in all the Canadian content. From Shania Twain to The Hip to all the bars and venues, this book checked that box!
In addition to the (no surprise) amazing story telling, this book provided more professional development nuggets than I was banking on. I work in sports partnerships and it's always amazing to me how similar the music and sports industries are. We are both in the memory making business, and are looking for ways to connect with our fans. I really enjoyed Max' ability to tell a story and explain the intention behind the band's actions. My work has me working off of checklists, just like Ash, and strategizing our resources while maximizing opportunities and touchpoints. I have certainly had my very own version of making sure a mix CD has a photo ready cover! I particularly loved the Team Canada / Air Canada / Arkells journey. I'm heading to the Winter Olympics this year as a fan and am so excited for the experience. And hey, maybe we'll follow along the next version of Canadian Content at the Winter Olympics!
It look me much longer than it should have to finish, but that's because I switched over the audiobook. Enjoyed the storytelling coming from Max himself. Would highly recommend that version. Turns out I'm not as good at singing Arkells lyrics myself!
I lived an example of the lessons taught in the book while I was reading it. That's the Arkells for you! My family and I wandered into a book store in Rosseau, ON in the heart of Canadian Cottage Country. My dad pointed out a copy of Try Hard and the owner was quick to tell us those copies were signed. He said he daughter reached out to Arkells when they were in Muskoka for their show at The Kee. Max offered to sign a few and got her tickets to the show. He was beaming telling this story. And to Max's point, he may never know the ROI of that action, but experiences matter and what a moment for 'fan development'.
Looking forward (as always) to Max' next work!
In addition to the (no surprise) amazing story telling, this book provided more professional development nuggets than I was banking on. I work in sports partnerships and it's always amazing to me how similar the music and sports industries are. We are both in the memory making business, and are looking for ways to connect with our fans. I really enjoyed Max' ability to tell a story and explain the intention behind the band's actions. My work has me working off of checklists, just like Ash, and strategizing our resources while maximizing opportunities and touchpoints. I have certainly had my very own version of making sure a mix CD has a photo ready cover! I particularly loved the Team Canada / Air Canada / Arkells journey. I'm heading to the Winter Olympics this year as a fan and am so excited for the experience. And hey, maybe we'll follow along the next version of Canadian Content at the Winter Olympics!
It look me much longer than it should have to finish, but that's because I switched over the audiobook. Enjoyed the storytelling coming from Max himself. Would highly recommend that version. Turns out I'm not as good at singing Arkells lyrics myself!
I lived an example of the lessons taught in the book while I was reading it. That's the Arkells for you! My family and I wandered into a book store in Rosseau, ON in the heart of Canadian Cottage Country. My dad pointed out a copy of Try Hard and the owner was quick to tell us those copies were signed. He said he daughter reached out to Arkells when they were in Muskoka for their show at The Kee. Max offered to sign a few and got her tickets to the show. He was beaming telling this story. And to Max's point, he may never know the ROI of that action, but experiences matter and what a moment for 'fan development'.
Looking forward (as always) to Max' next work!
May 12, 2025
This book is so endearing. I entered the book eager to learn about Max’s creative process, and left with so much more. Max has filled each chapter with lessons learned from years of being relentless in his approach because “why not?” With every story told comes a heartwarming reflection on how it affected Arkells’s career and Max’s own mindset.
As the owner of my own photography business, I found myself relating to these reflections, though much more often than I expected. The chapter about finding Ash as their manager made me a little misty as I remembered the interactions I’ve had with Max and Ash over the years as I’ve photographed Arkells shows. What Max presents in this book is true to form with how I’ve experienced working with them in the past. Always welcoming, always engaging.
I found myself grinning more often than not as he recounts all of these career-making moments, saying, “I remember when they did that!” But hearing the behind the scenes of it all made it that much more interesting.
As the owner of my own photography business, I found myself relating to these reflections, though much more often than I expected. The chapter about finding Ash as their manager made me a little misty as I remembered the interactions I’ve had with Max and Ash over the years as I’ve photographed Arkells shows. What Max presents in this book is true to form with how I’ve experienced working with them in the past. Always welcoming, always engaging.
I found myself grinning more often than not as he recounts all of these career-making moments, saying, “I remember when they did that!” But hearing the behind the scenes of it all made it that much more interesting.
Read
July 10, 2025The author, Max Kerman, headlines the successful and well-beloved Canadian band Arkells. This, however is not the stereotypical rock autobiography of decadent excess or self-indulgent behavior. Rather it's a book about doing the work. It's about outlining the steps involved in the work of musicianship or the creative life in general. It talks admirably about being so passionate about the music, that one devotes discipline to the pursuit of excellence in music's delivery. For example, attending other concerts becomes practical workshops in observing trade practices to connect with the audience and delivering an individualized, audience-moving tour performance. Switching managements becomes a roving life lesson on what makes a commercial partnership tick. Tours are subject to constant evaluation of what works in terms of gear, sets, visuals etc. Monetary gains are sunk back as investments to kickstart the next stage for the band. It's awesome to see how every event is a constant opportunity to advance one's craft and elevate one's musicianship and performance, for creatives like the author. This book thus contains useful lessons for the budding musician.
May 11, 2025
I became an Arkells fan in 2011 with their sophomore album "Michigan Left". I first heard the song "Bloodlines" when it was free for download on iTunes and didn't particularly like it. But, in high school, back before streaming, I didn't have the luxury of being too picky and listened to it over and over again until I got intrigued enough to explore the album. Since then, Arkells have been a mainstay in my life. "High Noon" the soundtrack to various house parties in a leaning apartment, "Morning Report" on the aux as I drove to my University Graduation, "Rally Cry" keeping me going during my first adult job when I had absolutely no idea what I was doing. Their sound has changed a bit, and so have I; but reading through the quiet moments of each record throughout this book has been such a lovely nostalgic feeling. I'm sure non-Arkells fans will still get a lot out of this book on the ins and outs of being a creative. But for me, this was a fun recollection that I look forward to revisiting.
June 30, 2025
I wasn't sure how I would find this book, particularly because I love autobiographies that have drama, but this surprised me!
I had reservations about a lead singer writing a book on creativity, because I could see this going in a way where it might de-value the rest of a band, but I was so pleasantly surprised.
Kerman gave an excellent overview of his own creative processes through inspiration he gets from life experiences - and not any particular category of life, just all of it. He is honest and explains the lyrical creations that have come to mind in songwriting, including political movements, basketball games, romance, etc. He also has explanations for creativity in day-to-day life (how to market the band, how to excite the fans, how to live a fulfilling life).
I would say my favourite chapters were the ones that brought him back to just being human and, of course, the chapter revolving around Hamilton to relate it to where I live now.
I had reservations about a lead singer writing a book on creativity, because I could see this going in a way where it might de-value the rest of a band, but I was so pleasantly surprised.
Kerman gave an excellent overview of his own creative processes through inspiration he gets from life experiences - and not any particular category of life, just all of it. He is honest and explains the lyrical creations that have come to mind in songwriting, including political movements, basketball games, romance, etc. He also has explanations for creativity in day-to-day life (how to market the band, how to excite the fans, how to live a fulfilling life).
I would say my favourite chapters were the ones that brought him back to just being human and, of course, the chapter revolving around Hamilton to relate it to where I live now.
May 16, 2025
if you know me at all, you may know i’m a little bit of a fan of arkells…
if you don’t know though and you’re a fellow fan scrolling through these goodreads reviews- i’ve been to countless shows and have even ran into max and manager ash at my work one time (where he texted a selfie of us to one of my old profs at mac??)
arkells have been a huge part of my life to say the least. so this book did bring me to tears multiple times, as max recounted shows i’ve been to and the making of music i love so much.
i could go on and on (friends you know this is the truth) it’s to the point where people i haven’t talked to in years will send me videos of the arkells performing for their company party!! but i will stop and just say, i’m so so grateful for this band <3
if you don’t know though and you’re a fellow fan scrolling through these goodreads reviews- i’ve been to countless shows and have even ran into max and manager ash at my work one time (where he texted a selfie of us to one of my old profs at mac??)
arkells have been a huge part of my life to say the least. so this book did bring me to tears multiple times, as max recounted shows i’ve been to and the making of music i love so much.
i could go on and on (friends you know this is the truth) it’s to the point where people i haven’t talked to in years will send me videos of the arkells performing for their company party!! but i will stop and just say, i’m so so grateful for this band <3
April 27, 2025
The way I devoured this book truly speaks to the heartfelt tribute written about the music industry and the band that made it all happen.
I’ve been following Arkells since they played small bars from Kingston to KW.
It’s such a thrill as a fan, to see a band (especially one you’ve loved since the first listen) progress and become big!
Thanks for all the amazing shows over the years!
Cheers on your book and can’t wait to see you guys at the Rally coming up!! :)
Sincerely,
A forever fan
I’ve been following Arkells since they played small bars from Kingston to KW.
It’s such a thrill as a fan, to see a band (especially one you’ve loved since the first listen) progress and become big!
Thanks for all the amazing shows over the years!
Cheers on your book and can’t wait to see you guys at the Rally coming up!! :)
Sincerely,
A forever fan
September 10, 2025
Try Hard, Max Kerman’s debut, is an honest and engaging look at his life, creative process, and the experiences that shaped him. The chapters aren’t tightly connected, but together they form a sequential journey of how he got to where he is today. As an Arkells fan, I especially loved reading about the band’s beginnings, the stories behind certain songs, and how creativity fits into his world. It’s a thoughtful and inspiring read about perseverance, creativity, and what it means to truly “try hard.”
May 17, 2025
Hard to believe this is a debut book!!! The writing comes through with such sincere voice and polish that it is truly a joy to read for that alone. However, it is even more impressive that amidst the stories of Max’s upbringing, the inception of the band, and their steady growth into a Canadian brand name, there are pearls of wisdom regarding creativity and community woven throughout. A lovely, feel-good read from cover to cover!!
June 5, 2025
3.5 stars
It will surprise no one with a working knowledge of Arkells and Max Kerman‘s manic, creative energy that this book feels like an encounter with an extremely hyped-up artist. Kerman flips through the history of the band and his relationship to creativity in short spurts, and while I appreciate the overarching idea, and his conversational style, I can’t help but wish he had tried to sew everything together just a little more tightly.
It will surprise no one with a working knowledge of Arkells and Max Kerman‘s manic, creative energy that this book feels like an encounter with an extremely hyped-up artist. Kerman flips through the history of the band and his relationship to creativity in short spurts, and while I appreciate the overarching idea, and his conversational style, I can’t help but wish he had tried to sew everything together just a little more tightly.
June 9, 2025
I am a huge Arkells fan and was very excited to pick up this book! Max provides so many interesting stories about his experience with the band and his overall philosophy and approach to his creative process and life. I would definitely not limit my recommendations to Arkells fans, as I think anyone interested in the creative process would get some ROI (haha, read it!) from this novel. Loved it, Max, can’t wait for the next chapter- see you at The Rally in 2 weeks!
May 26, 2025
Anyone that knows Brodie and I knows our love for Arkells - so I might be a bit biased here. Getting to see inside Max's mind and the creative moments behind the scenes was so fun to read! I feel lucky enough to have been a fan that had the pleasure to experience many of these stories in real life.
August 14, 2025
my first ever biography/self help/creative book so wasn’t my fav everrrrrr buttttt…
this book is perfect for anyone looking to make sense of their own creative pursuit or bring more creativity into their life, offering a framework for how to do it and where to begin and this relates to me sooo much as I definitely want to bring more creativity in my life 🎨💫
and the author is pretty cool too 😎
this book is perfect for anyone looking to make sense of their own creative pursuit or bring more creativity into their life, offering a framework for how to do it and where to begin and this relates to me sooo much as I definitely want to bring more creativity in my life 🎨💫
and the author is pretty cool too 😎
May 4, 2025
earnest, engaging and inspiring, Max brings to writing what he brings to songs and the stage, gratitude, energy and and endearing desire to give his best. His book has reminded me that being a try hard (which I am!) is a great way to approach creative joy...dream it, then walk towards it!!
July 14, 2025
I wasn’t sure about reading this at first, my preordered book stared at me from my shelf for months. But I’m really glad I packed it in my suitcase this summer. Every year Spotify tells me that Arkells is my favorite band, and now that I know more about their story and the meaning behind their songs, I feel like I better understand why I have a connection to the music I’ve loved for years.
May 4, 2025
I could listen/read someone talking about their passions every second of every day & that’s exactly what this book is!!! Thank you Max for sharing your passion!!
May 5, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
May 12, 2025
Okay I ate that up! Very biased 5 stars because I love Arkells and Max lol
Started listening to the audiobook about half way through and if you're also a fan I would recommend listening!
Started listening to the audiobook about half way through and if you're also a fan I would recommend listening!
May 16, 2025
“Continuing to work and evolve is the ultimate antidote… Accepting that you will never have all the answers because the goal-posts keep moving shouldn’t scare you. It should liberate you.”
June 3, 2025
one of my favorite bands and an amazing read!
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August 1, 2025Idk how to properly dnf but I hated this
Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews