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Drums, Girls & Dangerous Pie #1
Drums, Girls & Dangerous Pie
Thirteen-year-old Steven has a totally normal life: he plays drums in the All-Star Jazz band, has a crush on the hottest girl in the school, and is constantly annoyed by his five-year-old brother, Jeffrey.
But when Jeffrey is diagnosed with leukemia, Steven's world is turned upside down. He is forced to deal with his brother's illness and his parents' attempts to keep the family in one piece.
Salted with humor and peppered with devastating realities, Drums, Girls & Dangerous Pie is a heartwarming journey through a year in the life of a family in crisis.
But when Jeffrey is diagnosed with leukemia, Steven's world is turned upside down. He is forced to deal with his brother's illness and his parents' attempts to keep the family in one piece.
Salted with humor and peppered with devastating realities, Drums, Girls & Dangerous Pie is a heartwarming journey through a year in the life of a family in crisis.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2005
1298 people are currently reading
16653 people want to read
About the author
Jordan Sonnenblick
31 books930 followersI am the author of seven books for children and young adults, including Drums, Girls & Dangerous Pie. So if youʼre looking for info about some other guy named Jordan Sonnenblick, youʼve got the wrong website.
Anyway, I know a lot of people are looking for stuff they can use in reports for school, so Iʼll just get this out of the way right up front:
My favorite color is blue.
I have a wife and two kids.
The best pet I ever had was a garter snake I caught when I was eight by a lake in Pennsylvania. I named the snake Hector. Then it gave birth to 20 baby snakes, so I changed its name to Hectoria.
My all-time favorite band is the Beatles, although I like a ton of different music.
My hobbies are playing the drums, guitar, and bass; riding my bicycle at least 50 miles a week; hanging out with my wife and kids; and reading.
Speaking of reading, I read a lot of different genres. As a kid, though, I mostly read fantasy, science fiction, and comic books. When I was in fourth grade, a fantasy novel called The Dark is Rising inspired me to become a novelist someday.
My favorite baseball team is the New York Yankees. When I was a kid, my best friend and I used to go to Yankees games and throw open ketchup packets off the upper deck. Donʼt try that at home, kids!
Anyway, I know a lot of people are looking for stuff they can use in reports for school, so Iʼll just get this out of the way right up front:
My favorite color is blue.
I have a wife and two kids.
The best pet I ever had was a garter snake I caught when I was eight by a lake in Pennsylvania. I named the snake Hector. Then it gave birth to 20 baby snakes, so I changed its name to Hectoria.
My all-time favorite band is the Beatles, although I like a ton of different music.
My hobbies are playing the drums, guitar, and bass; riding my bicycle at least 50 miles a week; hanging out with my wife and kids; and reading.
Speaking of reading, I read a lot of different genres. As a kid, though, I mostly read fantasy, science fiction, and comic books. When I was in fourth grade, a fantasy novel called The Dark is Rising inspired me to become a novelist someday.
My favorite baseball team is the New York Yankees. When I was a kid, my best friend and I used to go to Yankees games and throw open ketchup packets off the upper deck. Donʼt try that at home, kids!
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January 28, 2018glad i finally picked this one up! it was really touching. i do think i prefer the sequel that i accidentally read before reading this book. XD there were just a few lines that bothered me and i had a hard time liking the main character (though he won me over in the end). and let me just say that the ending of the story had me so emo.
December 20, 2023
Inexplicably unique, Steven’s story sucked me in, seeped into my soul and stole my heart. Mr. Sonnenblick aptly captures and conveys the perplexities of a 13-year-old boy---the obvious, an abundant use of “like” in his dialogue, but also the subtle, self-sacrificing inner voice rarely credited to teens. This outwardly awkward adolescent is more than a pounding prodigy on a drum kit and all-around funny guy; he’s an older brother.
Even at a blush, he is kind, tolerant and indulgent with the feisty five-year-old boy who gleefully dismisses his elder sibling’s ‘rules’. When said spunky boy slips from the kitchen stool and is rushed to the emergency room, Steven simply sighs, “So Jeffrey was getting me in trouble again, as usual.” How could he know then, that the tumble terminated ‘as usual’? Steven’s little brother has cancer.
A terrifyingly tough topic, tackled brilliantly. Financial strain, even with good insurance and steady income; parents putting life on hold, sick siblings sent away for safety….but also….life goes on. That struggle seems insurmountable yet it’s unavoidable. A viscous diagnosis, grim parade of prodding and poking, a family flung in different directions would wreak havoc on anyone; the impact it has on a teen is unimaginable.
Was.
Was unimaginable. Not now. Mr. Sonnenblick wrote this book in 12 short weeks. It wasn’t planned, hadn’t stewed somewhere in his head for years. It was impulsive and imperative. While teaching 8th grade, he discovered that one of his students was going through something even more challenging than middle school. Her younger sibling had cancer. Needing to help and knowing that a good book could; he searched for just the right one to share; did not find it. There was no choice. He wrote it. And it is everything. All of the best things, defiantly in spite of almost-the-worst-thing, Steven and Jeffrey’s should be shared.
This review was written for Buried Under Books by jv poore.
Even at a blush, he is kind, tolerant and indulgent with the feisty five-year-old boy who gleefully dismisses his elder sibling’s ‘rules’. When said spunky boy slips from the kitchen stool and is rushed to the emergency room, Steven simply sighs, “So Jeffrey was getting me in trouble again, as usual.” How could he know then, that the tumble terminated ‘as usual’? Steven’s little brother has cancer.
A terrifyingly tough topic, tackled brilliantly. Financial strain, even with good insurance and steady income; parents putting life on hold, sick siblings sent away for safety….but also….life goes on. That struggle seems insurmountable yet it’s unavoidable. A viscous diagnosis, grim parade of prodding and poking, a family flung in different directions would wreak havoc on anyone; the impact it has on a teen is unimaginable.
Was.
Was unimaginable. Not now. Mr. Sonnenblick wrote this book in 12 short weeks. It wasn’t planned, hadn’t stewed somewhere in his head for years. It was impulsive and imperative. While teaching 8th grade, he discovered that one of his students was going through something even more challenging than middle school. Her younger sibling had cancer. Needing to help and knowing that a good book could; he searched for just the right one to share; did not find it. There was no choice. He wrote it. And it is everything. All of the best things, defiantly in spite of almost-the-worst-thing, Steven and Jeffrey’s should be shared.
This review was written for Buried Under Books by jv poore.
May 12, 2016
Posted at Shelf Inflicted
The Drums are what 13-year-old Steven plays in the marching band and jazz group in school and are the only thing that makes him feel good when his life starts to unravel.
The Girls are Renee Albert, the hot cheerleader and neighbor who Steven wishes would notice he was alive, and Annette Watson, a pianist and friend of Steven’s who occasionally watches his younger brother Jeffrey on weekends.
Dangerous Pie is
Steven is a very typical 13-year-old boy. His younger brother is a little terror, his parents are annoying, he hates math, and he has a crush on the hottest girl in school. When Jeffrey has a nosebleed that doesn’t want to stop, Steven’s life is suddenly turned upside down when he learns his little brother has leukemia. Now it’s all about Jeffrey and Steven seems to have been forgotten. He must handle the situation the best way he can. Thanks to help from his teachers, his friends, and his family he copes, he changes, and his pesky little brother isn’t so annoying any more.
I was a little hesitant about listening to this story, thinking it would be way too depressing and sentimental. It was actually the perfect story to listen to on the long drive to my mom’s house. It made me laugh and made me cry, a perfect balance of humor and drama. Joel Johnstone did an outstanding job narrating, making each of the characters’ voices distinctive and engaging. I was especially impressed with the female characters. Some male narrators seem to try too hard getting women’s voices just right, that they fail completely. Even little Jeffrey’s voice made me smile.
The characters were all very believable and easy to relate to. While some situations were a little predictable, Steven kept me thoroughly entertained as he talked about his life in school, his friends, his brother’s illness, his parents, and the physical, emotional, and financial hardships associated with cancer.
It’s funny and moving, and you don’t have to be a kid to enjoy it.
The Drums are what 13-year-old Steven plays in the marching band and jazz group in school and are the only thing that makes him feel good when his life starts to unravel.
The Girls are Renee Albert, the hot cheerleader and neighbor who Steven wishes would notice he was alive, and Annette Watson, a pianist and friend of Steven’s who occasionally watches his younger brother Jeffrey on weekends.
Dangerous Pie is
Steven is a very typical 13-year-old boy. His younger brother is a little terror, his parents are annoying, he hates math, and he has a crush on the hottest girl in school. When Jeffrey has a nosebleed that doesn’t want to stop, Steven’s life is suddenly turned upside down when he learns his little brother has leukemia. Now it’s all about Jeffrey and Steven seems to have been forgotten. He must handle the situation the best way he can. Thanks to help from his teachers, his friends, and his family he copes, he changes, and his pesky little brother isn’t so annoying any more.
I was a little hesitant about listening to this story, thinking it would be way too depressing and sentimental. It was actually the perfect story to listen to on the long drive to my mom’s house. It made me laugh and made me cry, a perfect balance of humor and drama. Joel Johnstone did an outstanding job narrating, making each of the characters’ voices distinctive and engaging. I was especially impressed with the female characters. Some male narrators seem to try too hard getting women’s voices just right, that they fail completely. Even little Jeffrey’s voice made me smile.
The characters were all very believable and easy to relate to. While some situations were a little predictable, Steven kept me thoroughly entertained as he talked about his life in school, his friends, his brother’s illness, his parents, and the physical, emotional, and financial hardships associated with cancer.
It’s funny and moving, and you don’t have to be a kid to enjoy it.
March 13, 2023
تا همین امروز اگر از من میپرسیدن که "با کدوم شخصیت کتاب هایی که خوندم، همذاتپنداری میکنم؟" خیلی گیج میشدم و کلی اسم توی ذهنم میومد که با هیچکدوم واقعا و از اعماق قلبم حس یکی بودن نداشتم و خودم رو توشون نمیدیدم. اما از امروز جوابم به این سوال "استیون آلپر" توی کتاب "کنسرت طبل های غمگین" هستش.( بله کتاب با این عنوان سانسوری توی ایران ترجمه شده)
پسر سیزده ساله ای که یک برادر کوچیک شش ساله داره، با یک پدر و مادر معمولی و یک زندگی معمولی. اما صبح یک روز معمولی، اتفاقی برای برادرش میوفته که کل زندگی استیون رو تحت تاثیر قرار میده و اونو تبدیل به نسخه جدیدی از خودش میکنه.
خب این داستانم بنظر معمولی میاد، گمونم واقعا هم معمولیه، حتی خیلی خوب و خاص هم نوشته نشده، شخصیت های خاص یا دیالوگ های ماندگار و فلانم نداره که هایلایت شون کنی. اما بینهایت غم انگیز و واقعیه. (خب البته شاید فقط برای من اینجوری باشه) یعنی میدونید، باید عاشق باشید تا این داستانو بفهمید، باید عاشق خواهر یا برادر کوچیکترتون باشید تا این کتاب اشکتونو دربیاره، فقط در اینصورته که جادوش اثر میکنه و قلبتون میشکنه . و امیدوارم آنقدر خوشبخت باشید که خواهر و برادر کوچیکتون کنارتون باشن و بعد خوندنش برید محکم بغلشون کنید و اونام با تعجب و اخم نگاهتون کنن.
....
از اینجا میخوام داستان خودمو تعریف کنم که ممکنه خیلی بی مزه و کسل کننده باشه. پس هشدار میدم اگه حالشو ندارید نخونید.
من وقتی برای اولین بار به مقام خواهر بزرگه تشرف پیدا کردم پنج سالم بود و خب چیزی ازون روزا یادم نیست جز اینکه یروز با سرلاک داداش کوچیکه برای دخترای محل سرلاک پارتی گرفته بودم.
اما بامزه ترین خاطره ای که بقیه ازم تعریف میکنن مربوط به اولین مواجهه ام با داداشم بوده، وقتی که قنداقش رو میدن بغلم (بله هنوزم توی خانواده ما نوزادها رو قنداق میکنن) و من با انزجار پسش میدم و میگم بوی مار میده :))
و خب بعدش هم چیزی از روابطم با این نوزاد و نورچشمی خانواده یادم نمیاد واقعا؛ و احتمالا این یجور واکنش ناخودآگاه به خاطرات بد باشه. ممنون از روان باهوشم! از فروید عزیزم هم تشکر میکنم.
اما دومین تجربه خواهر بزرگ بودنم یک رویای واقعی بود. خواهرم اون آرزویی نبود که موقع فوتیدن شمع تولد نه سالگیم کردم، اما قشنگترین قشنگترین قشنگترین، بزرگترین، خاصترین و شیرین ترین اتفاق زندگیم و بزرگترین لطف مادر و پدرم به من و جهان بود. دنیا اومدن اون منو تبدیل به یه مامان کوچولوی عاشق کرد و زندگیم شادتر شد. نمیدونم از کی شروع شد، گمونم من همیشه عاشقش بودم. همیشه باهم بودیم و من ازش مراقبت میکردم. تا اینکه یک روز صبح معمولی، اتفاقی براش افتاد که زندگی منم عوض شد و من بعدش تبدیل به نسخه جدیدی از خودم شدم که خیلی با قبلی فرق داره.
اه تف توش! بسه دیگه نمیتونم ادامه بدم. شمام قول بدید فراموش کنید اینو خوندید.
پسر سیزده ساله ای که یک برادر کوچیک شش ساله داره، با یک پدر و مادر معمولی و یک زندگی معمولی. اما صبح یک روز معمولی، اتفاقی برای برادرش میوفته که کل زندگی استیون رو تحت تاثیر قرار میده و اونو تبدیل به نسخه جدیدی از خودش میکنه.
خب این داستانم بنظر معمولی میاد، گمونم واقعا هم معمولیه، حتی خیلی خوب و خاص هم نوشته نشده، شخصیت های خاص یا دیالوگ های ماندگار و فلانم نداره که هایلایت شون کنی. اما بینهایت غم انگیز و واقعیه. (خب البته شاید فقط برای من اینجوری باشه) یعنی میدونید، باید عاشق باشید تا این داستانو بفهمید، باید عاشق خواهر یا برادر کوچیکترتون باشید تا این کتاب اشکتونو دربیاره، فقط در اینصورته که جادوش اثر میکنه و قلبتون میشکنه . و امیدوارم آنقدر خوشبخت باشید که خواهر و برادر کوچیکتون کنارتون باشن و بعد خوندنش برید محکم بغلشون کنید و اونام با تعجب و اخم نگاهتون کنن.
....
از اینجا میخوام داستان خودمو تعریف کنم که ممکنه خیلی بی مزه و کسل کننده باشه. پس هشدار میدم اگه حالشو ندارید نخونید.
من وقتی برای اولین بار به مقام خواهر بزرگه تشرف پیدا کردم پنج سالم بود و خب چیزی ازون روزا یادم نیست جز اینکه یروز با سرلاک داداش کوچیکه برای دخترای محل سرلاک پارتی گرفته بودم.
اما بامزه ترین خاطره ای که بقیه ازم تعریف میکنن مربوط به اولین مواجهه ام با داداشم بوده، وقتی که قنداقش رو میدن بغلم (بله هنوزم توی خانواده ما نوزادها رو قنداق میکنن) و من با انزجار پسش میدم و میگم بوی مار میده :))
و خب بعدش هم چیزی از روابطم با این نوزاد و نورچشمی خانواده یادم نمیاد واقعا؛ و احتمالا این یجور واکنش ناخودآگاه به خاطرات بد باشه. ممنون از روان باهوشم! از فروید عزیزم هم تشکر میکنم.
اما دومین تجربه خواهر بزرگ بودنم یک رویای واقعی بود. خواهرم اون آرزویی نبود که موقع فوتیدن شمع تولد نه سالگیم کردم، اما قشنگترین قشنگترین قشنگترین، بزرگترین، خاصترین و شیرین ترین اتفاق زندگیم و بزرگترین لطف مادر و پدرم به من و جهان بود. دنیا اومدن اون منو تبدیل به یه مامان کوچولوی عاشق کرد و زندگیم شادتر شد. نمیدونم از کی شروع شد، گمونم من همیشه عاشقش بودم. همیشه باهم بودیم و من ازش مراقبت میکردم. تا اینکه یک روز صبح معمولی، اتفاقی براش افتاد که زندگی منم عوض شد و من بعدش تبدیل به نسخه جدیدی از خودم شدم که خیلی با قبلی فرق داره.
اه تف توش! بسه دیگه نمیتونم ادامه بدم. شمام قول بدید فراموش کنید اینو خوندید.
November 3, 2017
Little brothers can be pretty annoying. I should know, being a little brother myself. The annoying trait just seemed to come with the territory. Ask lots of questions, be spontaneously obnoxious and sometimes loud (in order to be heard of course), pop-ups in the middle of the elders all-girl slumber party, tattle once in awhile (sorry sis), and ask lots of questions (did I say that already? well, inquiring young minds, ya know?). But the truth behind all those things is that we younger look up to our older sibling. You are the cool one forging the unbroken path. How could we not want to follow in your footsteps – albeit exasperatedly close behind you?
I’m not saying Steven’s little brother Jeffrey is nearly this annoying. Actually, he’s quite the cute kid – add in funny to boot. But all little guys have their moments, and Steven Alper has a 13 year old’s life happening. That’s where the “drums and girls” come in. Little bros just tend to get in the way, aka the “dangerous pie”. Hidden behind the wall that a big brother erects there lies sibling love. Often, there is no stronger bond. Big brother: protector, mentor, friend. That little wall is removed by the unfortunate news of cancer. It will be a hard road, but you could say that there is fortune because of it too.
I enjoyed the hell out of this story, even if it’s written for middle-schoolers. Books like this one work for all of us. I laughed and learned some things. I also remembered those school days. Most importantly, it made me think about family and friends who are there when it counts.
I’m not saying Steven’s little brother Jeffrey is nearly this annoying. Actually, he’s quite the cute kid – add in funny to boot. But all little guys have their moments, and Steven Alper has a 13 year old’s life happening. That’s where the “drums and girls” come in. Little bros just tend to get in the way, aka the “dangerous pie”. Hidden behind the wall that a big brother erects there lies sibling love. Often, there is no stronger bond. Big brother: protector, mentor, friend. That little wall is removed by the unfortunate news of cancer. It will be a hard road, but you could say that there is fortune because of it too.
I enjoyed the hell out of this story, even if it’s written for middle-schoolers. Books like this one work for all of us. I laughed and learned some things. I also remembered those school days. Most importantly, it made me think about family and friends who are there when it counts.
July 28, 2017
A wonderful BR with my son and Eilonwy :) I want to thank Bonnie for turning my attention onto this book and also to Eilonwy, who is so patient with such a terrible BRer like me! Hah, even my son read faster than me :D
What a wonderful book it is, we laughed from the jokes, were teary in some moments and of course, we were charmed by the main character. The main reason my son and I loved this book, is that it's about a 13 years old boy, who has life struggle. My son is 13 and it was a fun read for him as some situations from the book reminded him about his ordinary day at school. The book is full of humor, sad parts, interesting facts about music and health issues, crazy sneak peeks into a world of teen and his thoughts :)
You'd expect
but you'll get
who loves his family a lot and could do almost everything for them 💜
What more can I say, it was a great thought provoking and entertaining read :) Can't wait to get to book 2! :)
What a wonderful book it is, we laughed from the jokes, were teary in some moments and of course, we were charmed by the main character. The main reason my son and I loved this book, is that it's about a 13 years old boy, who has life struggle. My son is 13 and it was a fun read for him as some situations from the book reminded him about his ordinary day at school. The book is full of humor, sad parts, interesting facts about music and health issues, crazy sneak peeks into a world of teen and his thoughts :)
You'd expect
but you'll get
who loves his family a lot and could do almost everything for them 💜
What more can I say, it was a great thought provoking and entertaining read :) Can't wait to get to book 2! :)
August 4, 2019
4.5-5 stars
I've had this audiobook since April 30, 2017 and I just now picked it up. I can practically hear some friends booing or shaking their heads at me as I write this sentence. I couldn't tell you why I bought it then didn't read it. I'm assuming it was on sale as I don't usually buy books unless they're affordable then got distracted with university and the mandatory reading that was required. Seriously, why did it take me so long to finally pick this up and read this book!? It's been around since 2004, which means I would have been around the main character's age. Alas, it wasn't meant to be read then I suppose. All of a sudden I felt pulled to this book and knew it was time. Whatever the reason is, I'm so glad that I did buy it and never thought of returning it.
Drums, Girls & Dangerous Pie might be over a decade old (15 years at the time of this review) but it has aged really well, in my opinion. It was really touching. This book does a good job of examining the emotions a family goes through when a family member, in this case a small child of 5, goes through cancer treatment and the reactions it causes in a tight community. As someone whose family members and friends have had cancer, I can tell you it is scary to see, exhausting in every possible way, and something that very few people will understand even if they say they do. I’ve experienced both kinds of outcomes presented in this book so I felt understood and exposed at times. Pretty sure others have felt this way while reading or listening to this book as well.
The main character, Steven, isn't always a likable character, but most 13 year old boys seldom are especially when they're under stress. If Steven was a real person I doubt we would have been friends as our interests are different. He can appear self-centered, girl crazy, rude, and at times dumb of other people's feelings and viewpoints. Again, I chop this all up to him being a preteen almost teenager, but I can see why some readers might not like him as a character. Overall, he was relatable to me so I could look past his flaws. Just be aware if you're an older reader (16 and up) then you might not like the main character.
It drives me nuts when authors write about 1) a topic that others might not know information about but don't explain what any of the information is, or 2) when a topic is supposed to be the main focus for a character's story but we know nothing about what's going on with that side of life. Neither of these issues appear with this story. For me, I thought the author talked knowledgeably about cancer treatments and procedures used at the time. The acronyms were read out fully and explained what they were when mentioned, which is nice as I and other readers wouldn't have fully understood some of them. With advancements in medicine and technology, I can’t say if everything is up-to-date but readers will get a sense of how treatment was during this time.
Cancer brings up many different emotions for people both good and bad. Mr. Sonnenblick gave us a story not focused on the cancer patient but the older brother who is full of musical talent and insecurities. It seems like a good choice as we are able to see the occurrences of this story with a somewhat innocent view at times and serious on the other times. Being 13 years old, many of us felt like we were old enough to be treated like adults but were still seen as kids. Having a sick family member makes individuals grow up fast but it's not done easily. We, as readers, see moments where childhood is shed in order to help out and when someone who is facing a hardship the best they can can't help but fall and need someone to hold them and treat them as gentle as the child we were. This story encompassed so much wisdom and truth in it that I can't believe it's as short as it is.
Honestly, I can't recommend this audiobook enough. Joel Johnstone was the perfect choice as the narrator. He was easy to understand, gave a youthfulness to the character, and did a strong job of differentiating the cast of characters with his voice. I'll definitely be looking out for other audiobooks by him. I wished I would have read this book as a preteen or teenager because it might have been the perfect time. Hopefully some teacher will make it mandatory reading for their middle school class and others may be able to discover it.
I've had this audiobook since April 30, 2017 and I just now picked it up. I can practically hear some friends booing or shaking their heads at me as I write this sentence. I couldn't tell you why I bought it then didn't read it. I'm assuming it was on sale as I don't usually buy books unless they're affordable then got distracted with university and the mandatory reading that was required. Seriously, why did it take me so long to finally pick this up and read this book!? It's been around since 2004, which means I would have been around the main character's age. Alas, it wasn't meant to be read then I suppose. All of a sudden I felt pulled to this book and knew it was time. Whatever the reason is, I'm so glad that I did buy it and never thought of returning it.
Drums, Girls & Dangerous Pie might be over a decade old (15 years at the time of this review) but it has aged really well, in my opinion. It was really touching. This book does a good job of examining the emotions a family goes through when a family member, in this case a small child of 5, goes through cancer treatment and the reactions it causes in a tight community. As someone whose family members and friends have had cancer, I can tell you it is scary to see, exhausting in every possible way, and something that very few people will understand even if they say they do. I’ve experienced both kinds of outcomes presented in this book so I felt understood and exposed at times. Pretty sure others have felt this way while reading or listening to this book as well.
The main character, Steven, isn't always a likable character, but most 13 year old boys seldom are especially when they're under stress. If Steven was a real person I doubt we would have been friends as our interests are different. He can appear self-centered, girl crazy, rude, and at times dumb of other people's feelings and viewpoints. Again, I chop this all up to him being a preteen almost teenager, but I can see why some readers might not like him as a character. Overall, he was relatable to me so I could look past his flaws. Just be aware if you're an older reader (16 and up) then you might not like the main character.
It drives me nuts when authors write about 1) a topic that others might not know information about but don't explain what any of the information is, or 2) when a topic is supposed to be the main focus for a character's story but we know nothing about what's going on with that side of life. Neither of these issues appear with this story. For me, I thought the author talked knowledgeably about cancer treatments and procedures used at the time. The acronyms were read out fully and explained what they were when mentioned, which is nice as I and other readers wouldn't have fully understood some of them. With advancements in medicine and technology, I can’t say if everything is up-to-date but readers will get a sense of how treatment was during this time.
Cancer brings up many different emotions for people both good and bad. Mr. Sonnenblick gave us a story not focused on the cancer patient but the older brother who is full of musical talent and insecurities. It seems like a good choice as we are able to see the occurrences of this story with a somewhat innocent view at times and serious on the other times. Being 13 years old, many of us felt like we were old enough to be treated like adults but were still seen as kids. Having a sick family member makes individuals grow up fast but it's not done easily. We, as readers, see moments where childhood is shed in order to help out and when someone who is facing a hardship the best they can can't help but fall and need someone to hold them and treat them as gentle as the child we were. This story encompassed so much wisdom and truth in it that I can't believe it's as short as it is.
Honestly, I can't recommend this audiobook enough. Joel Johnstone was the perfect choice as the narrator. He was easy to understand, gave a youthfulness to the character, and did a strong job of differentiating the cast of characters with his voice. I'll definitely be looking out for other audiobooks by him. I wished I would have read this book as a preteen or teenager because it might have been the perfect time. Hopefully some teacher will make it mandatory reading for their middle school class and others may be able to discover it.
May 12, 2017
Drums, Girls & Dangerous Pie is the poignant tale of Steven, a funny, drum-playing 8th grader who suddenly finds himself having to deal (or not) with the life-changing news that his 5-year-old brother, Jeffrey, has leukemia.
It is rare for me to love sad stories. But this one, perhaps because it is written from the POV of a snarky, self-centered 13-year-old boy, had me laughing and smiling throughout, sometimes even smiling while tears were running down my cheeks.
DG&DP is truly heartwarming as we get to see a family redefine itself and a community come together in support of a little boy with an unstoppable spirit. Well done, Jordan Sonnenblick.
It is rare for me to love sad stories. But this one, perhaps because it is written from the POV of a snarky, self-centered 13-year-old boy, had me laughing and smiling throughout, sometimes even smiling while tears were running down my cheeks.
DG&DP is truly heartwarming as we get to see a family redefine itself and a community come together in support of a little boy with an unstoppable spirit. Well done, Jordan Sonnenblick.
July 14, 2023
این کتاب را ترجمه شده ی فارسی از نشر پرتقال خوندم و سانسور زیادی داشت ،اما در کل داستان شیرینی داشت طوری که باعث میشد با هر صفحه ش یه طور بغض کنم ،روابط خانوادگی را خیلی زیبا به تصویر کشیده بود ،حوصله نداشتم زبان اصلیش رو بخونم ولی اگر زبان اصلی میخوندم مطمئنن بیشتر از داستان خوشم میومد و امتیاز بالاتری میدادم
July 28, 2017
13-year-old Steve Alpers is obsessed with drums: he’s good enough to play with the All-City Middle and High School Band; girls: mainly his best friend, Annette, and “the hottest girl in eighth grade,” Renee; and his annoying 5-year-old little brother, Jeffrey, who is always underfoot and makes messes like the title pie. But Steve has to add another preoccupation when Jeffrey is diagnosed with leukemia, and his family’s lives are upended by hospital visits, no time for grocery shopping, huge medical bills, and the awful uncertainty of not knowing how things will turn out for Jeffrey.This title caught my eye on the library shelf over and over. Drums! I love teen band/musician books. Plus you have to read the book to find out what dangerous pie is (and I’m not telling, either). But then I’d see the word “leukemia” and remember again why I put it right back every time I looked at it. I don’t do cancer books.
Then I saw that Orient had just marked it as to-read, and the next thing I knew, I’d agreed to a buddy read with her and her 13-year-old son, because I figured I could make it through this book with some company.
And I’m glad I did.
Thanks to Steve’s spot-on middle school voice and his ability to highlight the absurdity of any situation, this book is about as funny as a story about pediatric cancer can get. It manages to find the humor in almost every circumstance, from Steve’s awkwardness with girls to his rooting around in the basement pantry for decade-old cans of fruit cocktail when the fridge is empty, to his mother’s sarcasm about teen dramatics (I loved his mother. She’s a great character). But it’s also absolutely serious when it needs to be, as Steve learns about childhood leukemia and realizes that there’s no guaranteed happy ending even with the strides that have been made in treatment.
Thinking about what it would be like not to be a big brother any more makes Steve aware of how much he loves his little brother, which sounds sappy, but it’s not at all. Steve is right upfront about how much he hates the way Jeffrey’s illness has taken over his family’s relationships with each other, how much he resents the lack of attention or even focus from his parents when he does get their notice, and the way Jeffrey’s condition plays with Steve’s own mind, leaving him paralyzed with “What’s Even the Point When My Brother Might Die?” issues regarding schoolwork and personal hygiene. About the only thing that keeps him centered is his passion for drumming. There’s nothing like a good half hour of “paradiddles” to get a person’s mind off everything else. (I also liked that I don’t think I’ve ever read a book about a drummer before, so the vocabulary and practice drills were a whole new experience for me.)
A note as a USAmerican reader: Part of the story is about fundraising to help pay for the tens of thousands of dollars Steve’s family is running up in medical bills, even with “good” insurance. I don’t want to get too political here, but this part made me so angry. Is there any other “first world” country where parents have to fear being driven into bankruptcy on top of the terror and stress of trying to save their child’s life?
This book kept me both laughing and worried the whole way through. It was a bit of a tough read for me, but the humor made it tolerable (plus I knew Orient was out there holding my virtual hand). :-) And it did make me cry.
Definitely recommended if you can tolerate the subject.
Read Orient’s review, too! Thanks for reading this with me, Buddy! :-)
December 8, 2015
অনেক দিন পরে এত্ত চমতকার একটা মিডল গ্রেড বই পড়লাম। সত্যিই খুব ভালো লেগেছে। সবচেয়ে ইন্টেরেস্টিং ব্যাপার হচ্ছে বইটা পড়ার সময় যে পেজে আপনি অনেক জোরে জোরে হাসবেন ঠিক সেই পেজেই পরের পাতায় এমন কিছু কথা লেখা থাকবে আপনার মনে হবে যে দুনিয়া এত খারাপ কেন। আর সত্যি কথা বলতে দুই একবার যে আপনা আপনিই আমার চোখ ভিজে উঠেছিল যেন কিভাবে। মহা ঝামেলার বই। :/
গল্পটা স্টীভের। এইটথ গ্রেডে পড়ে। ড্রামার। আর মেয়েদের আশে পাশে গেলে তার যেন কি হয়ে যায়। তো তাকে যখন একবার জিজ্ঞেস করা হয় যে তার কাছে সবচেয়ে বিরক্তিকর লাগে কোন জিনিসটা। সে বলে যে জেফরী নামে একটা ছোট ভাই থাকা। কিন্তু এটা যে শুধুই একটা কথার কথা এটা একটু পরেই বোঝা যায়, যখন জেফরি এর ক্যান্সার ধরা পড়ে। এর পরের অংশ গুলো পুরা ইমোশনাল রোলার কোস্টার। হাসি, কান্না, দুষ্টামি তে ভরপুর। আর লেখার ধরণ ও মারাত্মক। :)
গল্পটা স্টীভের। এইটথ গ্রেডে পড়ে। ড্রামার। আর মেয়েদের আশে পাশে গেলে তার যেন কি হয়ে যায়। তো তাকে যখন একবার জিজ্ঞেস করা হয় যে তার কাছে সবচেয়ে বিরক্তিকর লাগে কোন জিনিসটা। সে বলে যে জেফরী নামে একটা ছোট ভাই থাকা। কিন্তু এটা যে শুধুই একটা কথার কথা এটা একটু পরেই বোঝা যায়, যখন জেফরি এর ক্যান্সার ধরা পড়ে। এর পরের অংশ গুলো পুরা ইমোশনাল রোলার কোস্টার। হাসি, কান্না, দুষ্টামি তে ভরপুর। আর লেখার ধরণ ও মারাত্মক। :)
May 4, 2008
Reviewed by Christian C. for TeensReadToo.com
"The most annoying thing in the world is...My little brother, Jeffrey." That's what thirteen-year-old Steven Alper had written in his journal for his English class. But on October 7th, everything changed. Jeffrey had a small accident in the kitchen, was taken to the emergency room, and was diagnosed with leukemia.
Steven's life turns upside down, and just when he needs his parents the most, his mom has to spend most of her days at the hospital taking care of his brother, and his dad is mostly keeping to himself, too worried about the bills to spend time with or even talk to his oldest son. Steven wants to believe that everything will just go back to normal, and tries to release his anger, anxiety, and fears by playing the drums. But his brother doesn't seem to be getting any better, and Steven has a hard time concentrating at school, he's not turning in his homework, and his grades are starting to fall behind. To make things worse, he doesn't want anyone to find out what is going on--but somehow his best friend, Annette, the school counselor, and even Renee Albert, the hottest girl in the eighth grade, all seem to know that something is not right.
This unforgettable novel took me on an incredibly moving ride. And when I felt I was all the way down on this emotional roller coaster, and found myself struggling to see the words through my tears, Sonnenblick lifted me up gently, word by word, page by page, and put a grin on my face that eventually turned into a big smile and then an out-loud laugh. The author's great voice shows real characters with real feelings, and the true struggle of a teenager trying to understand the unfairness of a deadly disease, and how to cope with the fear of losing his beloved little brother.
So you think your little brother is a pest? You will think again after reading this touching story.
Tissues are highly recommended.
The paperback edition of DRUMS, GIRLS, & DANGEROUS PIE also includes a section with an interview, information about the author, tips on writing, and a preview of Jordan Sonnenblick's next novel, NOTES FROM THE MIDNIGHT DRIVER.
"The most annoying thing in the world is...My little brother, Jeffrey." That's what thirteen-year-old Steven Alper had written in his journal for his English class. But on October 7th, everything changed. Jeffrey had a small accident in the kitchen, was taken to the emergency room, and was diagnosed with leukemia.
Steven's life turns upside down, and just when he needs his parents the most, his mom has to spend most of her days at the hospital taking care of his brother, and his dad is mostly keeping to himself, too worried about the bills to spend time with or even talk to his oldest son. Steven wants to believe that everything will just go back to normal, and tries to release his anger, anxiety, and fears by playing the drums. But his brother doesn't seem to be getting any better, and Steven has a hard time concentrating at school, he's not turning in his homework, and his grades are starting to fall behind. To make things worse, he doesn't want anyone to find out what is going on--but somehow his best friend, Annette, the school counselor, and even Renee Albert, the hottest girl in the eighth grade, all seem to know that something is not right.
This unforgettable novel took me on an incredibly moving ride. And when I felt I was all the way down on this emotional roller coaster, and found myself struggling to see the words through my tears, Sonnenblick lifted me up gently, word by word, page by page, and put a grin on my face that eventually turned into a big smile and then an out-loud laugh. The author's great voice shows real characters with real feelings, and the true struggle of a teenager trying to understand the unfairness of a deadly disease, and how to cope with the fear of losing his beloved little brother.
So you think your little brother is a pest? You will think again after reading this touching story.
Tissues are highly recommended.
The paperback edition of DRUMS, GIRLS, & DANGEROUS PIE also includes a section with an interview, information about the author, tips on writing, and a preview of Jordan Sonnenblick's next novel, NOTES FROM THE MIDNIGHT DRIVER.
October 9, 2014
I recommend this book, it is a really interesting book and it's hard not to read the chapters all at once. At the end there is a big turning point…I'm not going to say what it is because I don't want to spoil the book for everyone else. This book has a lot of important/sad moments, but in my opinion it makes the book x10 better! I can't wait to read after ever after!
March 4, 2017
An amazing story of what family truly is - giving up what you want and need for the protection of a sibling. When the main characters little brother is diagnosed with a severe form of leukemia cancer, his older brother has to give up his life, career, and enjoyment to keep his brother not only safe, but happy.
November 22, 2014
I title this selection "A Brief Conversation Between Me and Steven Alper":
ME: Steven, why does your narrative voice sound like a forty year old trying to sound like a thirteen year old?
STEVEN: Uh...
ME: And while we're on the subject of voice, your sarcasm is grating and unoriginal.
STEVEN: Well, my brother has Leukemia. The least I can do is talk about myself and my own teenage problems!
ME: I suppose that explains your incessant narcissism. Another question- how do you suddenly become enlightened after visiting the hospital just once? I mean, HOW DOES THAT HAPPEN?! You had been a whiny brat for the majority of the book, and then something profound changed within the cold, dark barrens of your heavy teenage soul?
STEVEN: Somewhere in the last quarter of the book the author decided to give it that signature cliché happy ending of poorly-written young adult fiction- lest there actually be a realistic book about cancer- so he had to turn around my little sad-sap whining pretty quickly.
ME: That's what I thought. Oh, and also, why does Jeffrey talk like he's a med school graduate? The kid's FIVE!
STEVEN: I think we've already established that Jordan Sonnenblick is especially handicapped at dialogue.
ME: Don't get snappy with me, Alper. After all, you're a product of this man's piss-poor writing, so I don't think you have any leg to stand on here.
STEVEN: *Starts to complain*
ME: *Backhands Steven across the face* (In a low, intense action movie hero voice) I think we can all agree that this was a better ending than the book's.
(Scene ends with me standing over Steven's unconscious body, victorious)
As if it's any surprise, I was forced to read this in my English class, the same English class that forced me to read The Giver (catch my review of that here). And after reading that and this piece of crap, I have more faith then ever in my school's ability to unceasingly assign books that make me want to die.
The fact that this book has a 4.27 average rating is completely baffling. The narrative is, as I said above, piss-poor, and the "hilarious poignancy" that all of the other readers seem to have loved was not present- anywhere. Steven was, quite frankly, a whiny and self-centred brat. Sonnenblick failed utterly in trying to make Steven funny and witty, as instead he was overly sarcastic and selfish. Christ, I must have been reading a COMPLETELY different book than the one that other goodreaders described as "funny, wise, and touching"!
Perhaps the author, if he was trying to write a funny yet touching story of adolescence, should have taken a few notes from Ned Vizzini's It's Kind of a Funny Story, or David Levithan's The Realm of Possibility. They speak with realistic, poignant teenage voices without completely degrading adolescents as whiny brats. I have met six-year-olds that are more mature than Steven Alper.
I understand how authors use cancer as a plot device, but when it is misused as horridly as this cheap shot, I find it inexcusable. I should know how real people react to relatives with cancer- my grandfather died from it. And I can say for sure that I didn't act anything like Steven did- not even remotely the same- even though I was the same age (a year younger, even) than he was
And Steven's dialog isn't the only lacking one. The writing was not only confused, but horrifically clichéd: I could predict plot events, and they were major plot events, hundreds of pages in advance.
And a book that is that predictable, that heavy handed, is surely not a book that neither I nor anyone else should be reading.
This one will go down in history as one of the most stereotypical teen novels I've ever read. It will also live forever in infamy on my fictional list of awful mandatory books entitled, The Horrors of Eighth Grade English Class.
ME: Steven, why does your narrative voice sound like a forty year old trying to sound like a thirteen year old?
STEVEN: Uh...
ME: And while we're on the subject of voice, your sarcasm is grating and unoriginal.
STEVEN: Well, my brother has Leukemia. The least I can do is talk about myself and my own teenage problems!
ME: I suppose that explains your incessant narcissism. Another question- how do you suddenly become enlightened after visiting the hospital just once? I mean, HOW DOES THAT HAPPEN?! You had been a whiny brat for the majority of the book, and then something profound changed within the cold, dark barrens of your heavy teenage soul?
STEVEN: Somewhere in the last quarter of the book the author decided to give it that signature cliché happy ending of poorly-written young adult fiction- lest there actually be a realistic book about cancer- so he had to turn around my little sad-sap whining pretty quickly.
ME: That's what I thought. Oh, and also, why does Jeffrey talk like he's a med school graduate? The kid's FIVE!
STEVEN: I think we've already established that Jordan Sonnenblick is especially handicapped at dialogue.
ME: Don't get snappy with me, Alper. After all, you're a product of this man's piss-poor writing, so I don't think you have any leg to stand on here.
STEVEN: *Starts to complain*
ME: *Backhands Steven across the face* (In a low, intense action movie hero voice) I think we can all agree that this was a better ending than the book's.
(Scene ends with me standing over Steven's unconscious body, victorious)
As if it's any surprise, I was forced to read this in my English class, the same English class that forced me to read The Giver (catch my review of that here). And after reading that and this piece of crap, I have more faith then ever in my school's ability to unceasingly assign books that make me want to die.
The fact that this book has a 4.27 average rating is completely baffling. The narrative is, as I said above, piss-poor, and the "hilarious poignancy" that all of the other readers seem to have loved was not present- anywhere. Steven was, quite frankly, a whiny and self-centred brat. Sonnenblick failed utterly in trying to make Steven funny and witty, as instead he was overly sarcastic and selfish. Christ, I must have been reading a COMPLETELY different book than the one that other goodreaders described as "funny, wise, and touching"!
Perhaps the author, if he was trying to write a funny yet touching story of adolescence, should have taken a few notes from Ned Vizzini's It's Kind of a Funny Story, or David Levithan's The Realm of Possibility. They speak with realistic, poignant teenage voices without completely degrading adolescents as whiny brats. I have met six-year-olds that are more mature than Steven Alper.
I understand how authors use cancer as a plot device, but when it is misused as horridly as this cheap shot, I find it inexcusable. I should know how real people react to relatives with cancer- my grandfather died from it. And I can say for sure that I didn't act anything like Steven did- not even remotely the same- even though I was the same age (a year younger, even) than he was
And Steven's dialog isn't the only lacking one. The writing was not only confused, but horrifically clichéd: I could predict plot events, and they were major plot events, hundreds of pages in advance.
And a book that is that predictable, that heavy handed, is surely not a book that neither I nor anyone else should be reading.
This one will go down in history as one of the most stereotypical teen novels I've ever read. It will also live forever in infamy on my fictional list of awful mandatory books entitled, The Horrors of Eighth Grade English Class.
February 21, 2018
This book makes you happy and sad at the same time by making you fall in love with the characters. The book describes the life of an ordinary 13 year old boy that loves drumming and has some relationship problems, but his little brother's cancer flips his life upside down. The theme of the book is love, because in the book, without love from his friends and family, Steven, the main character, wouldn't of survived the whole ordeal with his school work and his little brother's cancer. I recommend this book to people who enjoy a book with deep meaning but also some romance and humor.
October 15, 2014
This book is an amazing book. It shows real character when Stevens little brother gets leukemia. Steven and his family go through lots of ups and downs. But they fight through the problems and secede.there are sad parts but also parts were you will smile. This book shows strength in relationships.this is a must read, - Lauren Ellerbusch #11 clymer pd1
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2012
*Cross posted on AmyLovesYA.com
Let me start by saying that this is the first Jordan Sonnenblick book I've read, It will NOT be the last. In fact, I'm reading another one right now titled After Ever After. Back to the point--I have not read many middle grade novels because I teach high school and figured I should keep with the age range of my students. I was wrong. SO wrong. This book is funny, heart-breaking, and just plain beautiful whether you are ten or thirty...something (like me).
The book starts off with Steven at his middle school graduation, but then he reflects back to a journal entry he wrote early in the school year. His teacher asked the class to write about what they thought was the most annoying. Naturally, Steven wrote about his relationship with his little brother, Jeffrey.
Jeffrey is five, so of course he gets into stuff he shouldn't, messes up things he doesn't mean to, and uses Stevens special sticks to mix his dangerous pie (love this part). But all of that pales in comparison to what happens in October. An unusually bad nose bleed due to a moatmeal incident lands Jeffrey in the ER where ends up being diagnosed with leukemia. As an eighth grader, Steven thought his biggest worries were drum practice, his crush on Renee Albert, and protecting his stuff from his little brother, but Jeffrey's diagnosis turns the whole family upside down.
Sonnenblick, a former eighth grade English teacher, perfectly crafts each family member's reaction to Jeffrey's diagnosis and treatment with heart-breaking clarity sprinkled with bits of relieving humor. His understanding of the middle school adolescent is spot on. The transformation that Steven undergoes, from his initial denial of Jeffrey's illness to his selfish reactions to finally seeing his family members as individuals rather than orbiters in his world, is what brings him to the culminating point at his eight grade graduation. Above all, Sonnenblick has crafted a beautiful story that I will not soon forget.
Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie was Jordan Sonnenblick's debut back in 2004, and if you still have doubts about whether or not you will like this book, take Sonnenblick's word for it. "This is my first book. My mom says it is good. Please feel free to buy it. And read it, too." Check out his website and blog where you can find out about his other seven books.
*Currently reading After Ever After by Jordan Sonnenblick
Let me start by saying that this is the first Jordan Sonnenblick book I've read, It will NOT be the last. In fact, I'm reading another one right now titled After Ever After. Back to the point--I have not read many middle grade novels because I teach high school and figured I should keep with the age range of my students. I was wrong. SO wrong. This book is funny, heart-breaking, and just plain beautiful whether you are ten or thirty...something (like me).
The book starts off with Steven at his middle school graduation, but then he reflects back to a journal entry he wrote early in the school year. His teacher asked the class to write about what they thought was the most annoying. Naturally, Steven wrote about his relationship with his little brother, Jeffrey.
Jeffrey is five, so of course he gets into stuff he shouldn't, messes up things he doesn't mean to, and uses Stevens special sticks to mix his dangerous pie (love this part). But all of that pales in comparison to what happens in October. An unusually bad nose bleed due to a moatmeal incident lands Jeffrey in the ER where ends up being diagnosed with leukemia. As an eighth grader, Steven thought his biggest worries were drum practice, his crush on Renee Albert, and protecting his stuff from his little brother, but Jeffrey's diagnosis turns the whole family upside down.
Sonnenblick, a former eighth grade English teacher, perfectly crafts each family member's reaction to Jeffrey's diagnosis and treatment with heart-breaking clarity sprinkled with bits of relieving humor. His understanding of the middle school adolescent is spot on. The transformation that Steven undergoes, from his initial denial of Jeffrey's illness to his selfish reactions to finally seeing his family members as individuals rather than orbiters in his world, is what brings him to the culminating point at his eight grade graduation. Above all, Sonnenblick has crafted a beautiful story that I will not soon forget.
Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie was Jordan Sonnenblick's debut back in 2004, and if you still have doubts about whether or not you will like this book, take Sonnenblick's word for it. "This is my first book. My mom says it is good. Please feel free to buy it. And read it, too." Check out his website and blog where you can find out about his other seven books.
*Currently reading After Ever After by Jordan Sonnenblick
August 1, 2011
Originally Posted HERE.
DANGEROUSNOVEL PIE!
WARNING: This book should not be read in public because it has a tendency to make you laugh and cry at the same time. It is very addictive to the point that you may not be able to put it down from start to finish.
I love the book and would definitely look for other Sonnenblick books. It is a tearjerker and a funny novel. That is how I would describe it in few words. One minute you're laughing so hard and then with just one phrase or sentence, ,a tear could possibly fall it could make you sad in an instant. Sure, I like to give five stars to almost all the graphic novels and superhuman stories that I've read but this one is on a different level. A lot of books nowadays are so thick. But if you ask me, the writer could have told that story in one paragraph. Authors sometimes could not get enough explaining things to readers that he/she ended up writing about it in four chapters. But you've got to love this book. Yes, there are hard to understand words (mostly medical stuff) but with a quick look at the dictionary and you’re fine. Every sentence you read out of it would not be a waste of your time. Sonnenblick does not focus too much on explaining things to you. He would rather capture the emotions of the character on that instant and make you feel it. It would touch your heart. Make you laugh and cry sad at the same time. I would not give any spoilers or details as to how the story goes. You don't have to be of certain age, or sex to like it. Even if you only read specific genres like dystopian or high fantasy, you would definitely be grabbed by it simply because it could be real for all of us.
DANGEROUS
WARNING: This book should not be read in public because it has a tendency to make you laugh and cry at the same time. It is very addictive to the point that you may not be able to put it down from start to finish.
I love the book and would definitely look for other Sonnenblick books. It is a tearjerker and a funny novel. That is how I would describe it in few words. One minute you're laughing so hard and then with just one phrase or sentence, ,
June 17, 2017
A thirteen year old is, by nature and brain chemistry, somewhat self-absorbed. Crushes, schoolwork, embarrassing parents, annoying siblings are all consuming.
This is the story of one selfish thirteen year old kid who is forced to look outside himself by one of the worst circumstances possible, when his little brother is diagnosed with leukemia.
It's a tear jerker, and it has its funny moments.
This is the story of one selfish thirteen year old kid who is forced to look outside himself by one of the worst circumstances possible, when his little brother is diagnosed with leukemia.
It's a tear jerker, and it has its funny moments.
July 18, 2016
I really enjoyed this one and can't wait for my older kids to read it. I think this is one all teenage kids should read. I hard a hard time wanting to put it down. I will admit that I kept picking up other books avoiding it because I wasn't quite sure what to think about it. I finally picked it up and thought to myself "Why did I wait to read this one?" This is one of the 16 books for Battle of the Books(BOB) where I live and I try to read what my kids are reading for the competitions. At state competition for 2015-2016 school year they were playing a book trailer for this and I wasn't sure what was being said because we were in a small auditorium and too many excited participants. One of our OBOB coaches said she loved it but recommended having tissues handy.
I really wish that I could share this book with everyone. It was a "real" read. My oldest daughter kept saying, right before I read this book, that she wished someone would write a "real" book. She went on to explain that her sort of real book would include day to day aspects of life. A few pages into this book I had to laugh because there was a scene which included a sentence that summed up what my daughter was saying, and I found it to be that "real" feel throughout the book.
This is not a lighthearted funny and happy ever after read, it's emotional, funny and yet it touches you and doesn't leave you after finishing it. I was choked up several times throughout. If you haven't read the premise, it is about a middle school boy named Steven who is coming of age and just being a middle school boy. Yet his world comes crashing down around him and he is left picking up the pieces. Yet throughout his changing world, he's upbeat and funny and moving forward in his own way. I laughed out loud several times at Steven's character. He was "real". He broke down, he was numb to it all at times, he was funny, he was learning that adults aren't perfect, he was learning that life is fragile. I loved it all. I ached through most of it.
Jeffrey is Steven's younger brother. He is in kindergarten and ends up being a "very sick little boy". I don't want to ruin it but what I want to talk about references a lot about what happens in the book, so if you don't want to know don't read on. I won't be super specific but just some personal thoughts but beware I will say a little bit about Jeffrey that is left a mystery in the first part of the book so don't read on if you don't want to know that. If you don't mind...keep reading.
While reading this I couldn't help but think about some friends I used to live by. They had a first grade aged daughter who had leukemia and was in treatment. I didn't personally know them during the battle with leukemia but became good friends with them afterwards. I knew of their struggles and sorrows and joys through a mutual friend who happened to live next door and who's son was the same age as the little girl. Madelyn ended up passing away after a long battle. Her younger brother was the same age as my youngest at the time. He loved my daughters because they were the same age as his sister and he was always sharing his memories of her with us and bringing his picture book to show us. I had a small glimpse into what they experienced yet this book had me aching even more for their time spent helping their beautiful daughter. So many aspects that aren't thought about were talked about in this book.
This edition that I read had a followup from the author. He talked about his inspiration for the story. He is a teacher and had a student who's brother ended up with cancer. I read this part out loud to my mom and daughters and we sat there crying through the author's explanation. It was beautiful and very touching. The author wrote it because there were no books out there about this subject so he wrote it. The mother of this little boy said that they received the book and their whole family read it within a day, they cried, they laughed but most of all what touched me was that she said they all felt like the teacher had taken a video recorder and followed them around during those months in their lives.
I hope I'm not raising anyone's expectations in this book. I just wanted to share what touched me personally and some of the memories that came to mind while reading it. It is achingly real and amazing. I want to read the sequel After Ever After.
I would love to hear what you think after you read this book if you want to share. Comment below or send me a message.
I borrowed a copy from my local library.
Happy Reading!!!
I really wish that I could share this book with everyone. It was a "real" read. My oldest daughter kept saying, right before I read this book, that she wished someone would write a "real" book. She went on to explain that her sort of real book would include day to day aspects of life. A few pages into this book I had to laugh because there was a scene which included a sentence that summed up what my daughter was saying, and I found it to be that "real" feel throughout the book.
This is not a lighthearted funny and happy ever after read, it's emotional, funny and yet it touches you and doesn't leave you after finishing it. I was choked up several times throughout. If you haven't read the premise, it is about a middle school boy named Steven who is coming of age and just being a middle school boy. Yet his world comes crashing down around him and he is left picking up the pieces. Yet throughout his changing world, he's upbeat and funny and moving forward in his own way. I laughed out loud several times at Steven's character. He was "real". He broke down, he was numb to it all at times, he was funny, he was learning that adults aren't perfect, he was learning that life is fragile. I loved it all. I ached through most of it.
Jeffrey is Steven's younger brother. He is in kindergarten and ends up being a "very sick little boy". I don't want to ruin it but what I want to talk about references a lot about what happens in the book, so if you don't want to know don't read on. I won't be super specific but just some personal thoughts but beware I will say a little bit about Jeffrey that is left a mystery in the first part of the book so don't read on if you don't want to know that. If you don't mind...keep reading.
While reading this I couldn't help but think about some friends I used to live by. They had a first grade aged daughter who had leukemia and was in treatment. I didn't personally know them during the battle with leukemia but became good friends with them afterwards. I knew of their struggles and sorrows and joys through a mutual friend who happened to live next door and who's son was the same age as the little girl. Madelyn ended up passing away after a long battle. Her younger brother was the same age as my youngest at the time. He loved my daughters because they were the same age as his sister and he was always sharing his memories of her with us and bringing his picture book to show us. I had a small glimpse into what they experienced yet this book had me aching even more for their time spent helping their beautiful daughter. So many aspects that aren't thought about were talked about in this book.
This edition that I read had a followup from the author. He talked about his inspiration for the story. He is a teacher and had a student who's brother ended up with cancer. I read this part out loud to my mom and daughters and we sat there crying through the author's explanation. It was beautiful and very touching. The author wrote it because there were no books out there about this subject so he wrote it. The mother of this little boy said that they received the book and their whole family read it within a day, they cried, they laughed but most of all what touched me was that she said they all felt like the teacher had taken a video recorder and followed them around during those months in their lives.
I hope I'm not raising anyone's expectations in this book. I just wanted to share what touched me personally and some of the memories that came to mind while reading it. It is achingly real and amazing. I want to read the sequel After Ever After.
I would love to hear what you think after you read this book if you want to share. Comment below or send me a message.
I borrowed a copy from my local library.
Happy Reading!!!
Read
January 1, 2018This was a great quick read. I love the little brother and the story from the boy's perspective. I now have a strange urge to learn to play the drums. What a cool skill to develop. Still not sure I'd ever get my kid a drum kit. =)
June 17, 2018
The best narration in an audio book, I have ever listened to.
Narration, according to me, makes or breaks a book.
Voice modulation, and making the characters feel different are key.
And that is exactly what Joel has done with the narration of Drums, Girls and Dangerous Pie.
The book directly jumps into the only thing confusing about the title of the book, dangerous pie.
We get an insight into a 13 year old boy: Steven and his younger brother Jeffrey's life.
This book will make you laugh, cry, and I mean ugly cry, laugh while you have tears in your eyes and cry a little more.
A heartwarming story of family, love, loss, and drums ofcourse.
Although this book is meant for adolescents, I would recommend it to people of all ages.
If you get a chance, do listen to the audio book. It truly is a masterpiece.
Narration, according to me, makes or breaks a book.
Voice modulation, and making the characters feel different are key.
And that is exactly what Joel has done with the narration of Drums, Girls and Dangerous Pie.
The book directly jumps into the only thing confusing about the title of the book, dangerous pie.
We get an insight into a 13 year old boy: Steven and his younger brother Jeffrey's life.
This book will make you laugh, cry, and I mean ugly cry, laugh while you have tears in your eyes and cry a little more.
A heartwarming story of family, love, loss, and drums ofcourse.
Although this book is meant for adolescents, I would recommend it to people of all ages.
If you get a chance, do listen to the audio book. It truly is a masterpiece.
July 5, 2012
4.5 Stars
Family, love, loyalty, Drums, Girls, & Dangerous Pie! :) I loved it all.
A touching, powerful story about how a family struggles to survive through a crisis and scare together. Humor and such sensitivity bring this story to life. A story and voice that went straight to my heart. Through 13 year old Steven Alper’s voice, readers will see and feel just how much a brother’s love can do and mean.
Three Big Reasons Why My Heart Loved this Book
1. Family LOVE
”Now, normally I am not the biggest fan of being hugged by my mother in broad daylight at this point in my adolescent years, but I must say, it felt pretty nice right then.”
2. Humor, Wit, Sarcasm…Steven’s voice especially killed me! But the whole family made me giggle. :)
”Since when do you wear cologne to learn math? Oh, my son is growing up right in front of my very eyes. Maybe I should get out the video camera.
Maybe you should tie me to a stake, douse me in kerosene, and torch me right on our front lawn.
I won’t need any kerosene, Steven—I’m sure the cologne will go up pretty fast!
Ha-ha, Mom.
3. Music. I love a book with a beat—it always makes my heart thump, thump with joy! Dizzy Gillespie is playing in my ears as we speak! :)
**Extra Bonus: Teachers get so much love in this book. Made me very proud.
Jordan Sonnenblick has become one of my favorite voices. Can’t wait to hunt down more! I highly recommend his stories for any young reader or adult.
Family, love, loyalty, Drums, Girls, & Dangerous Pie! :) I loved it all.
A touching, powerful story about how a family struggles to survive through a crisis and scare together. Humor and such sensitivity bring this story to life. A story and voice that went straight to my heart. Through 13 year old Steven Alper’s voice, readers will see and feel just how much a brother’s love can do and mean.
Three Big Reasons Why My Heart Loved this Book
1. Family LOVE
”Now, normally I am not the biggest fan of being hugged by my mother in broad daylight at this point in my adolescent years, but I must say, it felt pretty nice right then.”
2. Humor, Wit, Sarcasm…Steven’s voice especially killed me! But the whole family made me giggle. :)
”Since when do you wear cologne to learn math? Oh, my son is growing up right in front of my very eyes. Maybe I should get out the video camera.
Maybe you should tie me to a stake, douse me in kerosene, and torch me right on our front lawn.
I won’t need any kerosene, Steven—I’m sure the cologne will go up pretty fast!
Ha-ha, Mom.
3. Music. I love a book with a beat—it always makes my heart thump, thump with joy! Dizzy Gillespie is playing in my ears as we speak! :)
**Extra Bonus: Teachers get so much love in this book. Made me very proud.
Jordan Sonnenblick has become one of my favorite voices. Can’t wait to hunt down more! I highly recommend his stories for any young reader or adult.
August 25, 2011
Drums,girls and dangerous pie is one of my favorite books I've ever read.This book is hilarious but also upsetting.It's about a 13 year old boy name Steven who loves drumming,has a crush on the hottest girl in school,has a little brother name Jeffery.It all started over a nose bleed when Jeffery was standing on his stool while Steven was making oatmeal he fell off and hit his nose.Then Jeffery is rush to the emergency room.
Hours later his mom called and told Steven's dad that Jeffery might be diagnosed with leukemia.Ever since Steven found out about Jeffery he has been acting strange like pretending nothing happened.Steven had a concert to raise money for Jeffery because they didn't have enough money to get his treatment.Jeffery is blessed to have a brother that cares so much about him because not all people have siblings that care about them.It's not easy finding out a sibling or family member being diagnosed with cancer or any type of illness.
I like this book because the main character shows a lot of caring and tells me in that no matter what happen I will always be there with you little bro.Ms.zika has chosen the right book for her class to read because it is interesting and it not boring.The things I like is when Jeffery says moatmeal instead of oatmeal and how Steven help raise money for Jeffery's treatment.One thing I didn't like was when Jeffery went to the emergency room.If I was to give this book a rate I would say I liked it,no I LOVE it. :)
Hours later his mom called and told Steven's dad that Jeffery might be diagnosed with leukemia.Ever since Steven found out about Jeffery he has been acting strange like pretending nothing happened.Steven had a concert to raise money for Jeffery because they didn't have enough money to get his treatment.Jeffery is blessed to have a brother that cares so much about him because not all people have siblings that care about them.It's not easy finding out a sibling or family member being diagnosed with cancer or any type of illness.
I like this book because the main character shows a lot of caring and tells me in that no matter what happen I will always be there with you little bro.Ms.zika has chosen the right book for her class to read because it is interesting and it not boring.The things I like is when Jeffery says moatmeal instead of oatmeal and how Steven help raise money for Jeffery's treatment.One thing I didn't like was when Jeffery went to the emergency room.If I was to give this book a rate I would say I liked it,no I LOVE it. :)
March 23, 2016
This book was a solid 4 to me until the author's note at the end. Now, it's a 5. I think this is the first time an author's note has bumped up a book rating for me. DO NOT SKIP THE AUTHOR'S NOTE AT THE END OF THE BOOK. I REPEAT, DO NOT SKIP THE AUTHOR'S NOTE AT THE END OF THE BOOK!!!!!
The book was powerful and funny and full of heart. It made me step in the shoes of the characters, and I love it when that happens. I felt like some of the dialogue was a little cheesy... what the author thought kids would say instead of what they actually would say, but it was also written over 10 years ago, so maybe that's part of why I felt that way. But, the inspiration for this book... THAT was the most powerful part of all. It really shows how people can make a difference in our lives without even knowing it. It shows the power of being a teacher, and with that power comes great responsibility. I can't wait to discuss this book with the Rabid Readers!
The book was powerful and funny and full of heart. It made me step in the shoes of the characters, and I love it when that happens. I felt like some of the dialogue was a little cheesy... what the author thought kids would say instead of what they actually would say, but it was also written over 10 years ago, so maybe that's part of why I felt that way. But, the inspiration for this book... THAT was the most powerful part of all. It really shows how people can make a difference in our lives without even knowing it. It shows the power of being a teacher, and with that power comes great responsibility. I can't wait to discuss this book with the Rabid Readers!
March 10, 2024
This is a beautiful book. Yes, there's sadness, but there are also moments of great joy and kindness and love. Sonnenblick has created wonderful characters that you instantly care about and root for, even when they hurt you or disappoint you. I especially loved the way he wrote Steven. He just felt so real in a way that many book characters don't.
Several students recommended this book to me, and now I understand why. This one will definitely be added to my classroom library.
Originally read: July 5-7, 2015
Re-read: April 17, 2016
Re-read: March 2024
Several students recommended this book to me, and now I understand why. This one will definitely be added to my classroom library.
Originally read: July 5-7, 2015
Re-read: April 17, 2016
Re-read: March 2024
November 15, 2023
if I could rate this lower I could, but I can’t 😐
April 21, 2022
I am so impressed by the voice in this book. Steven is an 8th grader who loves drumming and is figuring out girls and other things when his world gets rocked by the news that his 5-year-old brother Jeffrey has cancer. The way the author depicts how an 8th grade boy and his family deal with this incredibly difficult situation is honestly perfect. His character is so believable as a middle-school student torn between being completely stressed about his own life and also learning how to think about other people and big things happening. It was emotional--everything as a parent takes on this new meaning when it has to do with kids--but I loved it.
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