By Jean Mills
For twelve-year-old violinist Flora, growing up doesn’t always mean growing apart. But when a Battle of the Bands starts to divide Flora’s friend group, she knows that music will either separate them or bring them back together again.
Playing violin makes twelve-year-old Flora feel alive, whether she is playing with her friends in their string quartet or playing fiddle for her Auntie Flora.
When a music competition is announced, Flora wants her string quartet to play a classical song like they always do, but her friends want to play something new. Then, Simon, a talented drummer, who is struggling with a recent loss, invites Flora to join his rock trio. Pulled in several directions, Flora must decide if she is willing to risk her friendships by playing in Simon’s band.
For Flora, finding harmony with her friends, family, and music just became more difficult.
This coming of age story explores what it means to grow into yourself and risk growing apart from what you know.
Celebrated author Jean Mills utilizes her musical talents in this uplifting novel that showcases the joys of music, and the power it has to bring people together.
Praise for After the Wallpaper Music
2024 Junior Library Guild selection
The Children’s Book Council “Hot Off the Press: September 2024” Feature
The Children’s Book Council “Hot Off the Press: October 2024” Feature
“Mills…employs a cozy writing style that is both breezy and immersive. Poignant life lessons and a focus on the emotions evoked by music permeate this soulful novel.”—Publishers Weekly
“Flora’s small town and new school year is stirred by the arrival of a former rock star’s family seeking privacy, introducing her and her classmates to the withdrawn son, Simon….empathetic readers may find a mirror in Flora who champions kindness towards outsiders like Simon.”—Booklist
“With Battle of the Bands on the horizon and the pressure to play with not one, but two bands, Flora is not sure where her future lies in music. Can she be everything to her friends while staying true to herself? With the focus fully on Flora, readers will get a chance to see the inner workings of her family and community. The middle school dynamics also ring true.”—School Library Journal
“I really, really liked this book!…After the Wallpaper Music is a story that leaves you with a good taste in your mouth, one that lingers long after you’ve finished reading it….Highly Recommended.”—CM Magazine
