A coming-of-age story capturing love, loss, and rock and roll. A young group of friends’ commitment to each other and their band are the centre of this Heartfelt coming-of-age story. We closely follow main character Mike as he navigates growing up, friendships, family illness and loss and dreams of a career in rock. ‘Miracle Number Four’ by Paul Marriner is a book full of heart as Mike, his sister, the rest of the bandmates and their wider circle of friends navigate the ups and downs of life as they pursue their dreams. I found that this story was very well-written. I engaged with the characters and although Mike was the main character I found myself equally interested in the wider cast as well. The author created a warm and welcoming sense of community among the characters, which provided a reassuring safe space for them and the reader when they go through hard times. The song titles at the start of each chapter were also a nice touch and provide an additional opportunity to become immersed in the atmosphere created by ‘Miracle Number Four’. I enjoyed this book, with plenty of highs and lows and writing that is emotive and really draws you in. A great book for fans of rock music and someone looking for a coming-of-age with a focus on family and community.
A song of the suburbs: a story of family, friends, first love, tragedy, hope and rock and roll It's 1976 and with dreams of a career in rock, a crush on the prettiest girl in town, and a mother in remission from cancer, Mike’s future looks bright. Music brings excitement and a chance to shine, but life off-stage is complicated. Together with family, friends and band-mates, Mike finds joy, sadness and loss. Troubling secrets surface while a new friend brings both fresh perspectives and a cruel reality. The radios and pubs blast rock into the suburban nights and the band prepare for their big break. Is Mike ready? A warm, thoughtful, questioning novel; a reminder of simpler days, complicated emotions and music of a generation.
Paul Marriner grew up in a west London suburb loving sport, music and, especially, literature. He writes full time and has published three novels. His ambition is to write books that entertain, engage and challenge and believes in the power of great stories and passionate, honest writing. His most recent novel is The Blue Bench which was Discovering Diamonds Book Of The Year 2019.
