At Ease

by Jeff Ross

At fifteen, Will already knows he wants to spend his life playing classical violin.

When Will is invited to take part in a summer program for young musicians, he realizes it is a chance to make his dream a reality. But years of playing only for Mr. Jorgensen, his elderly neighbor and mentor, haven’t prepared Will for what will happen when he steps onto the stage. He never expected the self-doubt that takes over his thoughts, or the fear of failure that makes his hands shake and his heart race. What happens when the one thing you need to achieve your dreams is something you find utterly terrifying?

This short novel is a high-interest, low-reading level book for middle-grade readers who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don’t like to read!

120 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 3, 2015

About the author

Jeff Ross is an award-winning author of thirteen novels for young adults.

Reviews

[Chrissy · Rating 3 out of 5]

A quick read book (130 pages) I reviewed for consideration in a high school library. I think our students who need the easier reading level/shorter length book would probably not be interested in reading about a talented violinist attending a prestigious summer program and auditioning for Juilliard.

Would recommend for students dealing with performance anxiety.

[Hannahh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved it! Well written! Being a violin/piano teacher and performer. I could really relate! Was disappointed by the occasional language and the reference to a boyfriend wanting to move in. That's only reason it didn't get 5 stars.