“All the memories of his mother and the emotions flooded Layton’s thoughts. He took a deep breath so he didn’t drown in them. Alright, I think it’s time I break the news to her.”
- Title: Chin Music Rhubarb
- Author: Eamon Loingsigh
- Genre: Fiction
- Pages: 283 pages
- Publication date: March 18, 2021
Chin Music Rhubarb isn’t the type of story I usually read. But I was approached with this book and decided to give it a shot.
Layton’s ready to quit everything and work a job to support his mom. But she asks him to try out for the baseball team instead, even though he’s a sophomore, and he didn’t play last year. Since she’s dying of cancer, and he wants to make her happy, he tries out anyway. However, high school can be unexpected and cruel. Challenges face him around every corner, especially since he fistfights more than he talks.
The story is well thought out. I knew who was scheming, but I couldn’t guess a couple of things they did. The dialogue throughout was good and felt realistic. The story also deals with some difficult issues well that do need to be talked about, such as racism.
I would’ve liked the pacing to speed up in certain areas though. I found myself skimming some paragraphs. It wasn’t too noticeable, but it could’ve been a bit tighter.
I also like the ending, but right beforehand was a spot where Layton almost seemed a bit out of character. I get what happened, but the conclusion he came to seemed a bit off. The ending afterward though was great.
Overall, this is a good, quick read. It’s a high school tale that even adults can enjoy.
Score: 8.0/10
Average rating on Goodreads: 4.78/5
Robin LeeAnn 
Seems like a great read. Thank you for sharing
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