I am in band, and a sax and oboe player, just as a coincidence! A friend of mine, also in band, had lent me the book after I just randomly grabbed it off of her desk during class one day. I asked her what is was about, and she told me that it was one of the best inspirational books she had ever read involving two things we both loved: Music and romance. Me, being a band geek and a sucker for inspirational books, I immediatly took an interest and began reading. And I have got to tell you, this book will suck you into a world unlike one you've ever seen. It takes you into a world seen from Andrew's eyes, a handsome, yet abused tenor sax player in a suffering high school band. He has problems at home on the farm so Andrew sees band as a safe haven. With the arrival of a new band teacher, and the growing crush on the "5-foot, 12-inch" female oboe player, Andrew's life gets better and worse at the same time. The bridge seen kept me on the edge of my seat! This story truly shows how the power of music and trust and teamwork can lead you into a life that does nothing but...well...Crescendo!!

(Crescendo ~ to build intensity; to grow)

I couldn't put this book down, even though it was written for a younger audience. It may be too mature for the 11- to 13-year-olds. Definitly an inspiring book for high schoolers, especially those in band.