This middle grade book would be of interest to children that are into music, drama, and acting. Simi, the main character in the story has grown up believing that she needs to pursue an acting career. Her parents are pressuring her to follow in their footsteps and she struggles to go against her parents’ wishes and pursue her own interests. Simi has a natural talent and passion for music, but to pursue a career as a Bollywood music composer, she will need to break through the male dominated profession and make a name for herself. This is a fun story where we follow through Simi’s ups and downs on her journey to follow her dreams. I found that this book was a bit slow to get into, but the pacing of the story was better after the first few chapters.

Thank you to Lantana Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I enjoyed this book a lot! I really liked how we got to see Simi's journey through figuring out what she wants and who she wants to be in life. I really enjoyed the book!

Melody Queen: A Refreshing Tale on Gender Disparity and Resilience

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4 stars)

Melody Queen, penned by author Puneet Bhandal, proves to be a delightful surprise that goes beyond the conventional expectations set by its synopsis. The story revolves around Simi, a talented 12-year-old girl who defies her parents' wishes to pursue music instead of acting. However, the narrative delves much deeper, addressing a theme of gender disparity with a fresh perspective that captivates the reader.

The execution of the gender disparity theme in the book is commendable. Simi's character exhibits remarkable maturity in her thought process, making her feel more than just a typical pre-teen protagonist. At times, the author may seem to tell rather than show Simi's emotions, but it doesn't hinder the overall impact of the story. The captivating ending leaves readers with a sense of hope for a future where gender no longer dictates our choices in life.

One aspect that stands out in the book is the complexity of Simi's life. With her parents frequently absent and Simi attending a boarding Bollywood school, the story gains nuance as Simi seeks comfort and connection with those trusted individuals in her circle. This portrayal of family dynamics adds depth to the narrative, making it all the more engaging and gives readers a different portrayal of a family.

While the story touches on significant themes, it also addresses the issue of misogyny through Simi's best friend, Zeeshan. Initially, his casual sexist remarks are unsettling, but the author masterfully weaves in a redemptive arc for Zeeshan. As he learns and apologizes for his actions, it becomes evident that everyone is influenced by their culture and society, highlighting the importance of unlearning harmful beliefs.

Melody Queen is a book that holds appeal beyond its target audience. It serves as a powerful conversation starter for parents, educators, and librarians who wish to discuss gender and its impact on career choices with young readers. The story strikes a perfect balance between entertainment and education, making it a valuable addition to any reading list.

In conclusion, Melody Queen surprises readers with its thought-provoking narrative and insightful exploration of gender disparity. Simi's journey is one of resilience and determination, resonating with readers of all ages. While there are moments when the storytelling could have been more show than tell, the book remains an entertaining and enlightening read. I highly recommend Melody Queen to anyone seeking a captivating tale that opens doors to important conversations about gender and career choices.