Glitz

Gr 7—10—High school juniors Ann Michelle and Raquel love hip-hop and dream of becoming famous. They both have a crush on a rising artist, and when he performs in Toledo, OH, the girls sneak into the concert and meet him and his crew backstage. Piper invites them to his recording studio and then to go on the road with him, believing that they are older than they are. Ann Michelle has reservations but tags along, while Raq is willing to do anything to become a star. When things start to spiral out of control, Ann Michelle isn't sure she knows what to do. Throughout the novel, she struggles for independence, torn between her friend and her grandmother, who thoroughly disapproves of Raquel. Raq, who has been in and out of "juvie" several times, is outspoken, carefree, and irresistible. Ann Michelle begins to doubt Raq after running off with her. The female characters leave more of an impression than the males because their pasts are fleshed out. Piper and his crew barely speak. Although at times the novel seems like a cautionary tale, it is an easy title to recommend to those who like books with drama.—Lori A. Guenthner, Baltimore County Public Library, Randallstown, MD