I liked the book and I liked the character, but the nuances with the language as related to music were probably lost on me. The sad blips did bring some depth to this book. ( )

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT
Marley, a junior in high school that has an unusual after school job as a DJ. He can mix songs on the fly, creating new music and soon becomes in demand. He also must balance his new career with caring for his heroin addicted mother while keeping up his scholarship to a private prep school. He tries desperately to hold it all together and at the same time trying to make a better life for his family. I don't know much about the DJ world, but the descriptions in this book are so fascinating. Love Maia does a wonderful job creating this world and the characters that populate it are complex while easy to connect with. I was almost in tears a few times while reading this. I just felt heartbroken for Marley and all that he had to deal with. At the same time, his smart mouth had me laughing a bit with his banter. Maia is a new author to watch! ( )

This is a type of story that I love. One with hard times and redemption. I mean, who doesn't go through hard times and want a happy ending?

I love the way this plot line flowed. The reader meets a young man who has big dreams. I love that the plot line isn't filled with partying at clubs and doing stupid things. The plot line is full of real life experiences that a lot of teens face today. Nothing is painted pretty.

The characters of the book both amaze and shocked me. Marley is a bright young man who is living a tough life. Marley amazed me through and through all the time. Faced with some of toughest times in his life, Marley keeps his head high and always look towards his dreams. I really loved how well the author made it possible to relate to every aspect of Marley's life.

There is a slight love interest in this book but nothing detailed. I still loved the redemption of Marley and his success. It's good to see him make it after all he went through.

DJ Rising is an amazing story of a teen making it till the very end. Marley will amaze you with the strength that he has. You see the potential for Marley so you root for him to make it. DJ Rising is an surreal and gritty book. ( )

If there's a character to admire, it's Marley. He sets high goals and works hard to maintain his scholarship in an expensive prep school. In addition, he works as a DJ while caring for his heroin-addicted mother. True, Marley wants a normal childhood, but he still makes something of his situation. Marley is far from perfect, but he is a protagonist that you want to support, someone you want to see rise and live the American dream.

The plot focuses on the characters and Marley's path as a DJ, and I loved learning more about the art of being a DJ. Marley's love for music is beautiful. While I don't know much about music in general, being the book nerd that I am, I found myself invested in the story and empathizing with Marley. Marley's friends are equally amazing and just as real. They give you a sense for the world Marley lives in. He has Chuckie and Scuz, Latreece, and Hawk, among others. There is also a hint of romance, as Marley has his eyes on a girl who doesn't seem to know he exists.

Love Maia tackles her novel with grit and realness. There are drugs, substance abuse, and strong language. DJ Rising is about hope, forgiveness, and acceptance. ( )