Remix

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY 2 MAY 2016

Though British teenagers Kaz and Ruby are reeling from breakups, both of them are determined to enjoy their last weekend together before some big transitions. With Ruby's brother leaving for America and wild child Ruby facing the possibility of being held back at school, the two best friends head to Remix, a music festival featuring their favorite band, Goldintone. Pratt (Trouble) viscerally illustrates the idiosyncrasies of the music festival world with its grungy bathrooms, mosh pits, and random encounters with strangers. Kaz and Ruby have always been there for each other, but their relationship hasn't been equal: according to mild-mannered Kaz, "Where Ruby leads, I follow." When Kaz meets a new friend who threatens to take Ruby's place and Ruby receives attention from a famous rock star, they both have to decide what is most important and whether their friendship can survive the changes in store. Writing in the teens' alternating voices, Pratt easily shifts between friendly late-night campfires and profound moments of realization, including an affecting consideration of sex without love, en route to an emotional and satisfying conclusion. Ages 14 up.