Yeah, Yeah, Yeah!Ahem. Yes. I am a Beatles fan. That is what initially attracted me to this book but I was happy to learn that you don’t have to be one, to enjoy this book.
Penny Lane’s parents are both lifelong fanatics who met at a makeshift shine the night John Lennon was killed. It is only fitting that they name their three children after Beatles songs. Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds, Lovey Rita and our narrator Penny Lane.
Penny has a great affinity to John, Paul, George and Ringo. She calls them the only four guys who have never broken her heart, or disappointed her.
“Anyone who has clung to a song like a musical raft will understand,” says Penny.
Oh Penny, I am so with you.
While this book is full of nods to the Beatles, which I really enjoyed, it has a fun premise and characters you really get involved with.
Penny is a strong female character who decides that she has had enough of boys (how refreshing!) and starts up her own Lonely Hearts Club. After having her own heart broken and watching her friends get theirs smashed, she decides enough is enough. There is a slight whiff of feminism in this book, not too strong, which is heartening to see.
Other girls hear of the club and are inspired by Penny’s bold move and join the club. The club is soon bursting at the seems with girls which has the boys very put off indeed, particularly with Penny.
While all this is happening the unthinkable happens, she starts to have feelings for a boy. Are all boys to be sworn off?
This is a pacy, fun and relaxing read that I really recommend. A great cuppa and biccie combo!
You can read an extract from the book on Penguin's shiny new website here.
You can buy it online here.
Title: The Lonely Hearts Club
Author: Elizabeth Eulberg
Publisher: Penguin, $19.95 RRP
Publication Date: 3 May 2010
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780143204473
For ages: 15+
Type: Young Adult Fiction
