If Rock & Roll Were a Machine

Terry Davis

ISBN 10: 0385307624 / ISBN 13: 9780385307628

Published by Delacorte Books for Young Readers, 1992

Former library book; Pages can have notes/highlighting. Spine may show signs of wear. ~ ThriftBooks: Read More, Spend Less 1.01. Seller Inventory # G0385307624I3N10

Synopsis:

The guidance of two adults and his interest in motorcycles and writing help high school junior Bert Bowden regain the sense of self that had been destroyed by his fifth-grade teacher.

Reviews: Grade 9-12-- High-school junior Albert Bowden is a typical teen--sometimes ungainly nerd, sometimes macho man--but rarely devoted, hardworking student or loving son. In his mind he is a football quarterback; in reality, short, uncoordinated Bert is cut from the team. But motorcycles, rock music, girls, and sex all have a place in his imagination, along with memories of childhood sports' triumphs, school humiliations, and the love of his grandparents. Finally, there is Bert the writer, whose often poetic and powerful journal entries reveal his inner feelings, challenges, and relationships in his search for identity, value, and self-worth. The young man's physical and emotional maturation are chronicled through his essays, dreams, and actions. His writings are nicely integrated into the text and include some of the book's strongest images. From the purchase of his first motorcycle and the freedom it represents, to his job working at Shepard's garage and visits to his grandfather in a nursing home, Bert learns what it takes to make it in life and to like himself. His teen psyche is fully developed through his anger, impatience, and words. The bikers are stereotyped as the misunderstood good guys judged by their sleazy appearance, but are likable nonetheless, and the characterizations of the parents are very sketchy. The romance remains unrealized, as the potential for love realistically becomes friendship. Stylistically, Davis's work is reminiscent of Chris Crutcher's. YAs should have little difficulty following Bert's thoughts and inner dialogue. Many will recognize his questions and feelings as their own. --Gail Richmond, Point Loma High School, San Diego
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Davis ( Vision Quest ) sets up numerous subplots in this novel of Bert Bowden's coming-of-age, including conflicts between the 16-year-old and his father, his struggles to overcome the damage resulting from ostracism by an elementary school teacher, his sexual fantasies, his love of motorcycles and his education as a writer. However, he sidesteps the most important conflict in Bert's life--that with his father--and focuses instead on Bert's longstanding hatred of the vindictive teacher. Unfortunately, even this subplot is not fully resolved. Despite considerable buildup, Bert's former instructor merely walks away when the showdown finally comes--what should have been the climactic scene disintegrates at its crucial moment. While the teacher's reaction to Bert's challenge may be psychologically realistic, Davis's handling of it proves a letdown, making his novel generally unsatisfactory. This is especially disappointing since Bert is a very likable hero with a great sense of humor; he deserves a better vehicle. Ages 12-up.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Bibliographic Details

Title: If Rock & Roll Were a Machine
Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: 1992
Binding: Hardcover
Condition: Good
Dust Jacket Condition: No Jacket