The right way to rock by Nat Amoore

cover image Penguin, 2021. ISBN: 9781760897703. (Age: Age 8+) Recommended.

The Right Way to Rock, written by Nat Amoore is a story for music and art lovers combined. Mac is a boy who has grown up with a mum who loves rock music. She lives and breathes it and believes that Mac is the same. However, Mac has a secret, he actually loves Broadway musicals. Finding a ‘secret society’ who shares his same passion, he journeys through the joy and celebration of finding that special connection with likeminded, yet very unique people. Mac feels at last that he is understood and can be himself. He begins to feel more of a sense of purpose and belonging. Enjoying the new friendships and mutual love of this music genre, Mac is enjoying life.  

However, this feeling of happiness and contentment are short lived. When Mac overhears a conversation and discovers that his beloved arts program at his primary school is going to be removed from the curriculum next year, he is horrified. Can Mac work out a way to change the outcomes for his school? Will his new friendship and ‘secret society’, band together and show everyone the beauty of Broadway Musicals and save the school program or will Waterson Primary’s principal stick with her decision and deny the students the opportunity to explore the joy of all facets of art? 

Nat Moore engages the reader with a relatable character in Mac. Each chapter begins with a scene that is scripted and a Broadway song; where the words have been cleverly changed to follow the melody. Knowing the actual song and tune that is being referred to enables the reader to enjoy this more and definitely adds a little extra zing to the new words. This book is thought provoking and intriguing, it may even inspire young readers to develop an interest in music theatre and check out the songs themselves. A story of trusting friendships, building self-confidence and accepting people for who they are. Mac’s songs are sure to get your toe tapping as you follow his journey to save his school.

Themes: Music, Broadway musicals, Friendship, Problem solving.

Michelle O'Connell