WILDFLOWER

Bird Barrett’s life isn’t exactly normal: Since she was 9, she has been touring, playing bluegrass music with the Barrett Family Band.

She is used to living in an RV, being in a different city every night and not having any close friends outside of her family. She yearns to be noticed by Adam Dean, another traveling musician who often plays the same venues as her family. However, she never expected to be noticed by an agent for a major record label at one of their shows. Before long she has a record deal, is in the studio laying down original tracks with seasoned musicians, and has legions of fans. Bird is suddenly a public figure living in the spotlight, which has implications not only for her music, but also for her family and her budding relationship with Adam. What separates this novel from others featuring teenage superstars is how grounded Bird is, even as she struggles to process the dramatic changes taking place in her life. Her family is loving and supportive, though Bird’s choices do provoke natural tension among them at times. Genuine dialogue, a quick pace and a plot that strikes the right balance between realistic and fantastic make for an engaging read. The lyrics and sheet music for one of Bird’s songs are appended.

This tender introduction to a newly minted country superstar sets the stage for a compelling series.