(3) 4-6 In 1966, only Trudy and three nerds remain in Trudy's once-popular Beatles fan club. Amid unsettling changes--an aloof former best friend; a largely absent father; teasing about her full name, Gertrude--Trudy hopes her life will change from meeting Paul McCartney when the Beatles come to Boston. This detail-rich historical novel will resonate with today's tweens nurturing their own passions while dealing with shifting experiences.

Reviewer: Carolyn Shute

(3) YA Essential Critiques series. From a clear definition of critical theory and its purpose to practical applications, this volume is a worthy introduction to music analysis, critical thinking, and thesis development. The book begins with a biographical sketch of Paul McCartney followed by discussion of his work through four different critical lenses (e.g., listener-response, historical criticism). A "You Critique It" assignment provides additional guidance. Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Tamara DePasquale

(4) 4-6 Heinemann Profiles series. These standard-issue biographies feature an easy-to-read text, captioned photos, quotations by and about the subject, and rather busy layouts. Occasionally the text is misleading, but overall the facts are presented in a fairly balanced manner. Depending on the subject, a time line, a list of films, or a list of recordings is included in each book. Bib., glos., ind. [Review covers these Heinemann Profiles titles: John Lennon, Paul McCartney, Oprah Winfrey, Henry Ford, Elvis Presley, George Lucas.]

Reviewer: Cyrisse Jaffee