Every Sunday we are taking a look at the world of books. I read a lot and always want to share my opinions on what I read, so I thought it would be fun to write reviews. Today we look at a book that takes you on a musical journey with a difference.

The RSVPeople (2022)

Paul Chronnel & Sarah Louise-Young

Synopsis

In 1985, 24 young people from around the world had their RSVP pen pal requests published in an edition of the bestselling music magazine of the day – Smash Hits. 35 years later, a couple from South London reply. To all of them!

– from Amazon

Positive Points

This is a really interesting concept for a book and it is a topic that you would never think would be a theme however it weirdly works. From the start, you become invested in the narrative and look forward to see who replies to these letters. I think the fact that it explores what happens to young people who wanted pen pals though their love of music all these years later is so interesting and the journey to connect can be a pretty difficult one. It is a book that is easy to read and you always look forward to the next reply and the people that help with the journey on the way.

Negative Points

Whilst the book is a delight to read, it can at times feel a bit too long between finding out what the next response is and can go on a bit of a tangent. The one thing I will say can be distracting is the yellow boxes with the replies in as you automatically jump to read them when they are on a page.

Overall Review

Overall, this is a fun book to read and if you are a fan of books written by Dave Gorman then will like this book a lot as it echoes the same sort of adventures that he used to go on. Whilst the book may feel a bit long at times, don’t let that put you off reading it as the idea is fantastic and the authors really welcome you in with open arms with their writing. It is a delight to read a book that puts a different spin on music and brings a whole community together that you never knew existed. I look forward to the next adventure this duo go on.

Rating : **** 4 Stars