The Haters by Jesse Andrews

Allen and Unwin, Australia, 2016. ISBN 9781760291891
(Age: 15+) Recommended. Wes and Corey have been friends for a long time, founded by their love of hating music and searching for music so good they can't hate on it. When they are booked into a summer jazz camp they quickly realise that due to the lack of females this is going to be a lame camp. Then they meet free spirited Ash, the stand out female in the whole camp. During a three hour jam session they soon realise together they have some talent and embark on The Haters, Summer of Hate World Tour 2016. What follows is an exciting, fun filled adventure across America in the world's smelliest car, which feels like there are scorpions built into the seat.
Jesse Andrews has written a coming of age story which is funny, a little wicked and with a heap of teenage wit thrown in. Even though there is a lot of comedy it also gives us serious topics, one being the relationships the three main characters have with their parents which helps understand the main characters. I love the referencing to bands and Youtube clips that feature throughout, and the dialogue Wes has when imagining or explaining conversations. I loved Jesse Andrew's style of writing especially the way he made me laugh out loud many times throughout the book. This book will appeal to those more mature teenage readers with a deviant sense of humour. If you loved Me and Earl and the dying girl (also written by Jesse Andrews), or John Green's Paper towns you will love this story.
Jody Holmes