Book Review: Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie
A Heartfelt Journey Through Adversity: Review of Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie by Jordan Sonnenblick
Introduction: A Story That Strikes a Chord
What happens when life throws an impossible curveball at a 13-year-old boy? Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie by Jordan Sonnenblick answers this question with humor, heart, and unflinching honesty. This middle-grade novel isn’t just about a kid navigating adolescence—it’s about family, resilience, and the unexpected ways we grow when faced with hardship.
Sonnenblick’s debut novel is a masterclass in balancing heavy themes with levity, making it accessible yet profound. Whether you’re a young reader, a parent, or simply someone who loves emotionally rich stories, this book will leave a lasting impression.
Plot Summary: A Family’s Fight Against the Unexpected
Steven Alper is your average eighth-grader—obsessed with drumming, crushing on the unattainable school goddess Renee Albert, and tolerating his pesky little brother, Jeffrey. But when Jeffrey is diagnosed with leukemia, Steven’s world is turned upside down.
The novel follows Steven as he grapples with fear, guilt, and the overwhelming responsibility of supporting his family while trying to maintain some semblance of normalcy. Between hospital visits, missed schoolwork, and strained friendships, Steven’s journey is one of reluctant maturity. Yet, amid the chaos, Sonnenblick weaves in moments of humor and hope, ensuring the story never feels overwhelmingly bleak.
Without giving away major spoilers, the book’s brilliance lies in its ability to make readers laugh through tears, proving that even in the darkest times, light persists.
Character Analysis: Steven, Jeffrey, and the People Who Shape Them
Steven Alper: The Reluctant Hero
Steven is an incredibly relatable protagonist—flawed, funny, and fiercely loyal. His voice is authentic, filled with the sarcasm and self-doubt of a teenager thrust into an impossible situation. What makes him compelling is his growth: he starts as a self-absorbed kid but slowly learns empathy, patience, and courage.
Jeffrey Alper: The Heart of the Story
Jeffrey, Steven’s five-year-old brother, is the emotional core of the novel. His innocence and resilience make his illness all the more heartbreaking. Yet, his unwavering optimism and love for his brother provide some of the book’s most touching moments.
Supporting Characters: A Network of Strength
From Steven’s exhausted but determined parents to his unexpectedly supportive music teacher, Mr. Watras, the side characters add depth to the story. Even Renee Albert, the object of Steven’s affection, evolves beyond a simple crush into a meaningful presence.
Writing Style & Narrative Technique: Humor Meets Heartbreak
Sonnenblick’s writing is conversational, witty, and deeply engaging. The first-person narration immerses readers in Steven’s thoughts, making his struggles feel immediate and real. The humor—often self-deprecating or situational—keeps the tone from becoming overly somber.
One standout technique is the use of drumming as a metaphor for Steven’s emotional state. When life feels chaotic, his drumming becomes erratic; when he finds moments of clarity, so does his rhythm. It’s a subtle but powerful way to mirror his internal journey.
Themes & Deeper Meanings: More Than Just a Sick Kid Story
At its core, Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie explores:
- Family Bonds: How crisis can either fracture or strengthen relationships.
- Resilience: The quiet bravery of facing the unimaginable.
- Growing Up: The painful but necessary transition from childhood to maturity.
- Finding Joy in Small Moments: Even in hardship, laughter and love persist.
Unlike many “sick lit” books, this one avoids melodrama. Instead, it presents a raw yet hopeful portrayal of illness and its ripple effects.
Personal Reading Experience: Why This Book Stays With You
I picked up this book expecting a lighthearted middle-grade read—I was wrong in the best way. By the end, I was laughing, crying, and marveling at how Sonnenblick made such a heavy topic feel so accessible. Steven’s voice is so genuine that his fears and triumphs become yours.
The emotional impact sneaks up on you. One moment, you’re chuckling at Steven’s awkward crush; the next, you’re gutted by a quiet moment between brothers. It’s a testament to Sonnenblick’s skill that he balances these tones so seamlessly.
Comparisons to Other Works in the Genre
Fans of The Fault in Our Stars by John Green or Wonder by R.J. Palacio will appreciate this book’s blend of humor and heartbreak. However, Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie stands out for its younger protagonist and lighter touch, making it ideal for middle-grade readers not yet ready for heavier YA themes.
Strengths & Minor Weaknesses
Strengths:
✅ Authentic Voice: Steven’s narration feels like a real teenager.
✅ Emotional Balance: Never too heavy, never too flippant.
✅ Relatable Themes: Family, fear, and growing up resonate universally.
Minor Weaknesses:
⚠️ Predictable at Times: Some plot points follow familiar arcs.
⚠️ Secondary Characters Could Be Deeper: A few feel underdeveloped.
That said, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise outstanding book.
Who Should Read This Book?
- Middle-grade readers (ages 10-14) looking for a meaningful but engaging story.
- Parents & educators seeking books that tackle tough topics with sensitivity.
- Anyone who loves character-driven, emotionally rich narratives.
Memorable Quotes & Passages
“You know how people say, ‘You don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone’? Well, I say you don’t know what you’ve been missing until it arrives.”
This line perfectly encapsulates the book’s message—gratitude often comes from hardship.
Cultural & Historical Context
While not historical fiction, the book’s portrayal of childhood cancer and family dynamics remains timeless. Published in 2004, it predates the modern wave of “sick lit” but holds its own as a poignant, enduring story.
Final Verdict: A Must-Read for All Ages
Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie is more than a book—it’s an experience. It’s the kind of story that lingers, making you appreciate the people in your life a little more. Whether you’re a young reader or an adult, this novel offers laughter, tears, and, ultimately, hope.
🔗 Get the Book: Amazon
Discussion Questions for Readers:
- How does Steven’s relationship with Jeffrey change throughout the book?
- What role does humor play in coping with difficult situations?
- If you were in Steven’s shoes, how would you handle the pressure?
Have you read Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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