“Surprise Saturday” (#2): Daisy Jones and The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid (Book Review)

Synopsis: 

What did it take for The Six, one of the most popular bands of the 70s, to rise to the top and then crumble completely? In this captivating fictional story presented in an oral history format, you experience an era full of chicks, pills, and a lot of rock and roll as told through distinct characters who share a palpable musical passion. At the center of it all is talented Daisy Jones, who joins the Six and brings the band tremendous success and to some members a few headaches as well…


Categorical Rankings (/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️):

 

-Pacing: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (The format is heavy on the characters’ dialogue, making it a fast-paced read.)

-Theme: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ (The story dives into how trust and hope are the building blocks of relationships, especially when it comes to Billy and Camilla.)

-Emotional Impact/Attachment: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ (The characterization of the band members is distinctive and unique throughout. The humanity of each can be recognized, making it easy to sympathize with them and their struggles.)

-Overall Enjoyment: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (This is my first time reading a book that employs an oral history concept for storytelling. I loved it. Not only did it make the history part of the fiction feel authentic, but it left a lot of the underlying meaning and intent behind the dialogue to interpretation, which I liked.)

 

Book Insights (moderate spoilers):

 

I am not a musically inclined person, so I was quite skeptical about picking up this book. It is safe to say it exceeded my expectations.

 

The book was very character-driven; however, apart from Camilla, I didn’t love any of them, which I don’t mind one bit. Every new event introduced and the creative process described made the reading exciting for me. I lived for the drama of the rock and roll scene. I felt like I was learning bits and pieces of information about the music industry. Though I don’t know how accurate it was, it made the story a thrilling ride.

 

When it came to the way the story tackled topics of addiction and its impact on people and relationships, I believed it was sensible. As you read about how Billy’s addition drags along to the end of the story, one can truly see how his life came to revolve around his choices and endurance. 

 

Furthermore, when it came to character dynamics, Daisy and Billy’s tension was beyond compelling. Did I root for them? Absolutely, not. Was I entertained? Indeed. In my humble opinion, it was unpredictable and passionate. 

 

CAMILLA. OMG. This woman is among the best-written female characters in my book (hehe). Her patience, her wisdom, her persistence...WOW. This woman was a true angel. She was by no means perfect, but commendable. 

 

Finally, the ending of this book was one of the most feel-good, movie-like conclusions to a story I have encountered in a hot minute. It was the cherry on top needed to finalize the band’s journey. It almost made me shed a few tears.


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