Summary

The Barnes & Noble Review
British writer Sarra Manning turns up the volume in teen lit with this rocking novel about a girl who learns about life as her band makes a hit on the music circuit.

Molly Montgomery's band starts as a small-time thing between three friends, but soon she, Jane, and Tara have become the Hormones. When they're joined by two guys -- Dean and T -- who try to "improve" their band, the Hormones find themselves quickly sailing to the top of the charts. Sound exciting? It could be, except being in a popular teen band has its drawbacks: Everyone wants your lyrics to be ultra-grown-up (what's wrong with Hello Kitty and magic markers?), managers expect to control your every move, and the rock 'n' roll lifestyle (including sex with Dean and Jane dabbling with drugs) hits you head-on. Fortunately, Molly has a strong will and good pals, and with every move the Hormones take, she seems to keep her head on somewhat straight. In the end, it's an American tour that determines whether Molly can keep it up, and she learns that fame isn't all it's cracked up to be.

With a sure voice, Manning delivers a novel that chick-lit fans will eat up. Molly is an admirable character who can hold her own, and her struggle between girlhood and rock stardom will speak to readers wondering if Britney Spears and other teen celebs have gone through something similar. Without a doubt, Guitar Girl is one jamming read. Shana Taylor