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When It Drops
Caleb Clifford has earbuds, not real buds. And he prefers it that way.
1. They always give him what he wants to hear.
2. He can adjust the volume.
3. If things get tangled, it's relatively easy to straighten them out again ...
Sixteen-year-old songwriter and aspiring social outcast Caleb Clifford fills his world with music, but – like most things – keeps his songs to himself. That is until his little brother leaks Caleb's most personal track online; a track that's quite obviously about his secret crush. Having his innermost feelings (accompanied by a funky bassline) go viral is not Caleb's idea of a good time. But is this the end of everything, or the start?
A hilarious and touching coming-of-age debut novel from ARIA award-winning triple j host Alex Dyson about family, friends, fame, and the importance of never leaving your computer unattended.
1. They always give him what he wants to hear.
2. He can adjust the volume.
3. If things get tangled, it's relatively easy to straighten them out again ...
Sixteen-year-old songwriter and aspiring social outcast Caleb Clifford fills his world with music, but – like most things – keeps his songs to himself. That is until his little brother leaks Caleb's most personal track online; a track that's quite obviously about his secret crush. Having his innermost feelings (accompanied by a funky bassline) go viral is not Caleb's idea of a good time. But is this the end of everything, or the start?
A hilarious and touching coming-of-age debut novel from ARIA award-winning triple j host Alex Dyson about family, friends, fame, and the importance of never leaving your computer unattended.
336 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2020
12 people are currently reading
254 people want to read
About the author
Alex Dyson
1 book6 followers"After graduating from the University of Melbourne with a Creative Writing degree, Alex Edward Dyson became a co-host of the national triple j breakfast show when he was just twenty-one years old. In his seven years there he woke up with approximately one million listeners every morning, and has interviewed everyone from Arnold Schwarzenegger to Julia Gillard, as well as almost every up-and-coming musician the country has to offer. Since leaving radio, he has DJ-ed at clubs and music festivals around Australia, hosted MTV Unplugged, opened a bar, run for parliament, and has now dusted off his writing degree to release his debut young adult novel, When It Drops, in May 2020. " (source: Hardie Grant Publishing)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
June 7, 2020
Trigger warnings: cancer, death of a parent (in the past), vomit, bullying (in the past), grief.
I think the best way to describe this is "a teenage boy book". It's full of fart jokes and awkward erections and punch ups. And it's been a while since I've read a book that was this clearly intended for teenage boys, so this was honestly kind of delightful.
Sure, I had my issues with some things, especially the way the radio hosts act. But I loved the messy family dynamic and the examination of grief and the way life can be overwhelming when something changes suddenly and you're thrust into a spotlight you didn't expect. The friendships were wonderful and on the whole, this was just really fun. Dyson clearly loves music as much as Caleb does, which was fantastic, and I laughed out loud multiple times. Especially over the "what was Lennon's greatest achievement?" question in class that turned out to in fact be "what was Lenin's greatest achievement". Classic.
I think the best way to describe this is "a teenage boy book". It's full of fart jokes and awkward erections and punch ups. And it's been a while since I've read a book that was this clearly intended for teenage boys, so this was honestly kind of delightful.
Sure, I had my issues with some things, especially the way the radio hosts act. But I loved the messy family dynamic and the examination of grief and the way life can be overwhelming when something changes suddenly and you're thrust into a spotlight you didn't expect. The friendships were wonderful and on the whole, this was just really fun. Dyson clearly loves music as much as Caleb does, which was fantastic, and I laughed out loud multiple times. Especially over the "what was Lennon's greatest achievement?" question in class that turned out to in fact be "what was Lenin's greatest achievement". Classic.
February 23, 2020
I laughed a lot and then cried too.
Caleb has a terrific, sympathetic inner voice.
Caleb has a terrific, sympathetic inner voice.
July 20, 2020
Loved it. Perfect for anyone who loves Australian music, enjoys a laugh and who was once a teenager. Great read.
June 30, 2021
"He also felt like he should ask what reality it was, because this one seemed decidedly different from usual."
This is hilarious and perfect for music loving teenagers, or readers in need of a good dose of comedy.
And it belongs on the shortlist for the CBCA Book of the Year, but only made the Longlist. Clearly a mix-up of Caleb Clifford proportions.
Who knows why it took me 6mths to finish??
December 13, 2021
I loved it! it was so hilarious, I laughed so much and I recommend this book to anyone and everyone that loves music.
January 9, 2025
This book was a lot of fun, full of laughs, second hand embarrassment and relatable moments. Plus I love the Aussie nature of it!! I love how close to home it felt 😁😁 well done Alex Dyson 👍
June 15, 2020
I honestly probably wouldn't have purchased this book myself. But it landed on my shelf to catalogue and I am glad it did because I loved every minute of it. It's nice to read a book that is just pure Aussie.
Caleb is a very relatable character... (even as a 27 year old gal). He is just doing his best as an awkward, shy, 16 year old that has been shoved in a spotlight he isn't ready for yet.
I did almost die from all the second hand embarrassment suffered. But was uplifted in the wins and the ending made it all worth it.
Looking forward to more tales from Alex Dyson :)
Caleb is a very relatable character... (even as a 27 year old gal). He is just doing his best as an awkward, shy, 16 year old that has been shoved in a spotlight he isn't ready for yet.
I did almost die from all the second hand embarrassment suffered. But was uplifted in the wins and the ending made it all worth it.
Looking forward to more tales from Alex Dyson :)
December 5, 2021
*3-3.5
A fun read. There were lots of laugh out loud moments and I really enjoy reading about kids dealing with fame, that’s just a trope I love.
A fun read. There were lots of laugh out loud moments and I really enjoy reading about kids dealing with fame, that’s just a trope I love.
September 21, 2020
This book took me back to every Soundwave and Groovin the Moo I ever went to. It made me laugh and cry and happily reflect on my adolescence.
This book will be something I buy for all the young adults in my life.
This book will be something I buy for all the young adults in my life.
August 17, 2020
Really enjoyed this book. If you're in the australian music industry or just a regular aus music junkie, you'll love the references made within. It's a great representation of young people, following their dreams, and the long winding road you'll take to get there - even with hiccups.
July 31, 2020
Solid read, especially for a debut. Ending was especially great, some great messages and the final chapter *chef kiss*. Was quite funny some bits thought a lot of the time it missed the mark for
me, seemed like the type of humour for a younger audience. Though the start was great, the ending really made the protagonist shine and had to be my favourite part of the book. Protagonists little phrase about waiting for the best drop felt really heartfelt and made for a great conclusion that summarised the essence of the book beautifully.
me, seemed like the type of humour for a younger audience. Though the start was great, the ending really made the protagonist shine and had to be my favourite part of the book. Protagonists little phrase about waiting for the best drop felt really heartfelt and made for a great conclusion that summarised the essence of the book beautifully.
February 16, 2020
Received an advance reading copy of this wonderful book earlier this year and I just loved it. Alex Dyson is a serious talent and I hope this is the start of a new direction in his career after being such a star on radio, for so many years,and straight out of uni what more!
Everything that happens here I felt just seemed so plausible, you even felt like you had lived this life yourself, even though I haven’t!!
But that is it’s great success. You can relate to everything that happens to Caleb - we’ve all been through that wringer of life in some shape or form and huge credit to Alex for making the book so accessible and readable.
I hope everyone, young and old gets to read this as it deserves a wide readership.
Do also try and catch Alex’s short video of interactive dance for a slightly different perspective on what a diverse and wacky talent Alex Dyson is!!
Everything that happens here I felt just seemed so plausible, you even felt like you had lived this life yourself, even though I haven’t!!
But that is it’s great success. You can relate to everything that happens to Caleb - we’ve all been through that wringer of life in some shape or form and huge credit to Alex for making the book so accessible and readable.
I hope everyone, young and old gets to read this as it deserves a wide readership.
Do also try and catch Alex’s short video of interactive dance for a slightly different perspective on what a diverse and wacky talent Alex Dyson is!!
May 27, 2020
I'm not the target demographic (29 yo female) but I loved every minute of this book.
I will be immediately purchasing a copy for my 14 yo nephew.
Not only is When It Drops a page turner but the key themes and values it portrays are so important for teenagers to be exposed to.
Everything from respect to mindfulness, and he even managed to throw a subtle 'consent from women is important' message.
Highly recommended for all ages.
I will be immediately purchasing a copy for my 14 yo nephew.
Not only is When It Drops a page turner but the key themes and values it portrays are so important for teenagers to be exposed to.
Everything from respect to mindfulness, and he even managed to throw a subtle 'consent from women is important' message.
Highly recommended for all ages.
February 23, 2020
I loved reading this book! There were so many emotions covered, a lot of humour, a bit of sadness, some cringeworthy awkward moments and a whole lot of love! Personally though I found the main character Caleb to be very well written as an awkward teenager who doesn’t have all the answers but grows so much along his journey!
June 19, 2020
Purely bought this book because I love Alex Dyson, but got so much more than I bargained for. A gorgeous narrative about how awkward it is to be 16 and a glimpse in to the Australian music scene. Loved all the subtle nods to Aussie artists and the final chapter had me tearing up and reminiscing about my adventures at music festivals.
Highly recommend. Well done, Ratdog. You’ve done it again.
Highly recommend. Well done, Ratdog. You’ve done it again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2020
When It Drops is a teen dream Hannah Montanna, in the best possible way. It's fun and sweet and beautifully relives embarrassing high school drama as well as tending to some heartfelt and challenging home life dynamics. Great read for anyone who is a teen (or remembers being one) and dreamed of more!
May 11, 2022
DNF - it was too childish for me 🥲 I just couldn’t enjoy it and the characters weren’t really intriguing. Couldn’t relate to the mind of a 16 year old boy there was just too much second hand embarrassment.
June 21, 2020
This was a great easy read and a book about music that I really needed during a time when I’m missing going to live gigs. I had a smile on my face most of the time I was reading this sweet story.
Read
June 4, 2021
Trigger & Content Warnings
Cancer
Emesis
Grief & loss depiction
Death of a parent recounted
Bullying recounted
Cancer
Emesis
Grief & loss depiction
Death of a parent recounted
Bullying recounted
July 9, 2021
An authentic portrayal of quiet and not popular Year 10 Caleb Clifford dealing with isolation at school, self-doubt (reflected in his reluctance to use his L's and learn to drive), estrangement at home as his mother, younger brother and older sister all try, in their different ways, to come to terms with the death of the father/husband a year earlier and an unrequited crush on Ella Westlake, carried since primary school and crushed on day one in high school. But, Caleb has a talent - song writing and creating electronic music and in an act of spite, brother Nat shares is love song of Ella Westlake on Spotify - and it goes viral. Picked up by a local radio station and approached by a talent scout and with sister Rachel stepping up as his manager, Caleb is pushed into an unwanted limelight and overcome with self-doubt and insecurity.
This is a terrific read - Caleb's lack of confidence and and fear of not being good enough - for Ella, for his dead father's expectations or for his music resonates. All the characters are well rounded - and hos only friend Mirallee is a quietly bisexual teenager needing affirmation after breaking with her girlfriend and makes a refreshing contrast to the absent Ella who makes an appearance when Caleb starts to make a name. Everything goes wrong at his first musical gig, but his quiet demeanour makes him an important musical mentor and the book ends on a high - with new found confidence, the family learning to remember the good times with their father rather than focusing on his loss, and a brighter future ahead.
On the notable list for the 2021 CBCA Book of the Year: Older Readers, this is an entertaining, believable and thoughtful novel that teenagers will enjoy but will especially appeal to young males who will be able to relate to some of Caleb's challenges in navigating school, friends, family and his own inner turmoils.
This is a terrific read - Caleb's lack of confidence and and fear of not being good enough - for Ella, for his dead father's expectations or for his music resonates. All the characters are well rounded - and hos only friend Mirallee is a quietly bisexual teenager needing affirmation after breaking with her girlfriend and makes a refreshing contrast to the absent Ella who makes an appearance when Caleb starts to make a name. Everything goes wrong at his first musical gig, but his quiet demeanour makes him an important musical mentor and the book ends on a high - with new found confidence, the family learning to remember the good times with their father rather than focusing on his loss, and a brighter future ahead.
On the notable list for the 2021 CBCA Book of the Year: Older Readers, this is an entertaining, believable and thoughtful novel that teenagers will enjoy but will especially appeal to young males who will be able to relate to some of Caleb's challenges in navigating school, friends, family and his own inner turmoils.
November 7, 2021
4.5
I accidentally read two “teen becomes famous” books in a row. I didn’t love “Stars Like Us”, but in the words of many characters in this book - this one slaps!
Caleb has been pining after his crush Ella for years, and has secretly written a song about her. When the song accidentally gets out and people go wild for it, Caleb has to deal with his feelings, potential recording contracts, and his general 16 year old social awkwardness. 🎤 Westlake you make my heart ache!
Things I liked:
- This book is so Aussie, I loved it. The author was a breakfast radio host on our “cool” radio station, and you could feel the Aussie youth culture and music scene coming through
- A teen male voice as a lead! Awkward boners, general teen dude antics with his brother - it was so refreshing to be in this different space!
- The overall message of “what’s actually important to you” really resonated
- You could tell this song would in fact slap. This book was CLEVER
Things I didn’t like:
- I wanted more resolution re. the romantic storyline. I had an idea of where this book was going to go, and it didn’t really get there. It didn’t make me dislike the book, I just think there was a lost romance opportunity. You all know I’m about the kissing books
- It was probably a little immature for me in places, but I completely appreciate that this is a teen novel
In short: Great Aussie YA with killer music references and teen drama-rama - loved it!
I accidentally read two “teen becomes famous” books in a row. I didn’t love “Stars Like Us”, but in the words of many characters in this book - this one slaps!
Caleb has been pining after his crush Ella for years, and has secretly written a song about her. When the song accidentally gets out and people go wild for it, Caleb has to deal with his feelings, potential recording contracts, and his general 16 year old social awkwardness. 🎤 Westlake you make my heart ache!
Things I liked:
- This book is so Aussie, I loved it. The author was a breakfast radio host on our “cool” radio station, and you could feel the Aussie youth culture and music scene coming through
- A teen male voice as a lead! Awkward boners, general teen dude antics with his brother - it was so refreshing to be in this different space!
- The overall message of “what’s actually important to you” really resonated
- You could tell this song would in fact slap. This book was CLEVER
Things I didn’t like:
- I wanted more resolution re. the romantic storyline. I had an idea of where this book was going to go, and it didn’t really get there. It didn’t make me dislike the book, I just think there was a lost romance opportunity. You all know I’m about the kissing books
- It was probably a little immature for me in places, but I completely appreciate that this is a teen novel
In short: Great Aussie YA with killer music references and teen drama-rama - loved it!
May 5, 2022
Read this in a day which I found impress since I haven't read for so long?! Also not in the mood to write a long review due to the fact that I don't have much to say and I'm just tired ig but uh yeah:))
From the blurb you would think it's a romance book because of the love song but the romance shit that happens is mostly just a subplot that doesn't get brought up to often and if it does it's only for a short period of time. I personally liked how the author did this, as the comedy aspect of the plot wouldn't have been as a priority. Also Caleb's dad and how he passed away? I love how that whole thing actually got some screen time and wasn't just like 'Oh yeah my dad died', istg I would've just thrown the book across my room if that happened. Luckily it didn't though so my book wasn't damaged! But anyway- characters were relatable and although the circumstance wasn't relatable, like hell could I see similarities between me and like let's say Caleb or Rachel. Story overall was decent, nothing too much to offer but yk. Good enough. Kept me hooked and though there wasn't anything spectacular about this, it definitely deserves a bit more hype.
Recommend it to whoever has access to buy it<33
From the blurb you would think it's a romance book because of the love song but the romance shit that happens is mostly just a subplot that doesn't get brought up to often and if it does it's only for a short period of time. I personally liked how the author did this, as the comedy aspect of the plot wouldn't have been as a priority. Also Caleb's dad and how he passed away? I love how that whole thing actually got some screen time and wasn't just like 'Oh yeah my dad died', istg I would've just thrown the book across my room if that happened. Luckily it didn't though so my book wasn't damaged! But anyway- characters were relatable and although the circumstance wasn't relatable, like hell could I see similarities between me and like let's say Caleb or Rachel. Story overall was decent, nothing too much to offer but yk. Good enough. Kept me hooked and though there wasn't anything spectacular about this, it definitely deserves a bit more hype.
Recommend it to whoever has access to buy it<33
October 26, 2020
I was interested, engaged and surprised by this story.
Interested, because from the start the story was good enough to have my focus.
Engaged, because it was a family story while focusing on one young boy’s journey
Surprised, because I wondered if I would finish it and as it turned out I was keen to know the whole story – love a happy outcome – get out there and have fun is a great thing to focus on.
As much as it’s about the music it’s also about fun, life, loving, being in a family, being friends, growing up, bullies (and being bullied), parties and grieving.... lots of stuff going on.
An authentic step into a coming of age story.
It’s been worth the read to be reminded of a different time, age and place.
Interested, because from the start the story was good enough to have my focus.
Engaged, because it was a family story while focusing on one young boy’s journey
Surprised, because I wondered if I would finish it and as it turned out I was keen to know the whole story – love a happy outcome – get out there and have fun is a great thing to focus on.
As much as it’s about the music it’s also about fun, life, loving, being in a family, being friends, growing up, bullies (and being bullied), parties and grieving.... lots of stuff going on.
An authentic step into a coming of age story.
It’s been worth the read to be reminded of a different time, age and place.
December 16, 2022
Caleb writes songs in his bedroom, and records them on the computer. He doesn't think they're very good, and definitely doesn't think that anyone outside of himself should be listening to them. But then his mulleted little brother Nate shares one of them on Caleb's facebook and suddenly he's attracting attention and now his embarrassing love song is shared far and wide and Caleb just wants to curl up and die.
Awkward, funny and a bit heartwarming, When it Drops appeals to the socially inept music nerd in all of us. Far-fetched yes, but cute all the same. I usually find books written from a teen's perspective too jarring but not in this instance. Yes Caleb acted like a douchey teenager at times, but I didn't hate him.
The perfect holiday read. Solid three turtles.
Awkward, funny and a bit heartwarming, When it Drops appeals to the socially inept music nerd in all of us. Far-fetched yes, but cute all the same. I usually find books written from a teen's perspective too jarring but not in this instance. Yes Caleb acted like a douchey teenager at times, but I didn't hate him.
The perfect holiday read. Solid three turtles.
November 7, 2021
CW: cancer, death of a spouse/parent.
First off, I highly recommend the audio of this book - it's produced really well, and have actual audio clips of the songs in the book.
We follow high school student Caleb, whose song about a girl he likes accidentally goes viral. As expected, awkwardness and hilarity ensue. This is a wholesome book about family, friendship, and unexpected fame.
The characters were really well written, and I loved watching them develop, and grow to know themselves better.
The plot was really fun, and unpredictable! Overall, a fantastic read.
Thank you @hardiegrantchildrenspublishing for gifting me an audio-copy of this book.
First off, I highly recommend the audio of this book - it's produced really well, and have actual audio clips of the songs in the book.
We follow high school student Caleb, whose song about a girl he likes accidentally goes viral. As expected, awkwardness and hilarity ensue. This is a wholesome book about family, friendship, and unexpected fame.
The characters were really well written, and I loved watching them develop, and grow to know themselves better.
The plot was really fun, and unpredictable! Overall, a fantastic read.
Thank you @hardiegrantchildrenspublishing for gifting me an audio-copy of this book.
February 19, 2022
(Audible)
A really enjoyable listen. Alex Dyson did a great job at bringing the awkwardness of teenaged years to life. Caleb’s inner voice felt very real. Dyson was creative in his character development and the storyline and sympathetic yet humorous when it came to the more serious topics. I found some of the language a little overly detailed and pushing the motif a bit much at times. The music added into the audiobook was a great touch!
A really enjoyable listen. Alex Dyson did a great job at bringing the awkwardness of teenaged years to life. Caleb’s inner voice felt very real. Dyson was creative in his character development and the storyline and sympathetic yet humorous when it came to the more serious topics. I found some of the language a little overly detailed and pushing the motif a bit much at times. The music added into the audiobook was a great touch!
August 5, 2021
This was a really enjoyable light read, the characters were all funny, awkward and real.
the only issue to me personally is the radio show hosts they were quite disgusting, though I think that was intended, so that Caleb had a reaction to them.
Recommend to anyone who wants a awkward, funny and simple read.
the only issue to me personally is the radio show hosts they were quite disgusting, though I think that was intended, so that Caleb had a reaction to them.
Recommend to anyone who wants a awkward, funny and simple read.
June 13, 2023
I feel like this book got me out of my month long reading slump. I just finished it so quick. It was pretty good but just a little bland sometimes. Like some of the plot was a bit cliche and (like another comment I saw) it felt like it was written for a teen boy. It was a nice read but it definitely wasn’t a five star book. Just kind of meh 🤷♀️
November 9, 2021
just started it today and not gonna lie, i bought it because i thought it was gonna be a gay romance book. it’s not :( but i’m not complaining i actually quite like it so far, it’s awkward and cheesy and kinda emotional
May 31, 2023
I had my doubts but it ended up being quite enjoyable. A slow warm up to a satisfying end. It followed the traditional coming of age story but taking the reader on that journey through the familiar Aussie music scene which made it quite exciting for this festival-going-music-loving-Dyso fan.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews