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Waiting for Callback #1
Waiting for Callback
Geek Girl meets Fame meets New Girl in this brilliantly funny new series!
When Elektra is discovered by an acting agent, she imagines Oscar glory can't be far away, but instead lurches from one cringe-worthy moment to the next! Just how many times can you be rejected for the part of 'Dead Girl Number Three' without losing hope? And who knew that actors were actually supposed to be multi-lingual, play seven instruments and be trained in a variety of circus skills?
Off-stage things aren't going well either - she's fallen out with her best friend, remains firmly in the friend-zone with her crush and her parents are driving her crazy. One way or another, Elektra's life is now spent waiting for the phone to ring - waiting for callback.
Can an average girl-next-door like Elektra really make it in the world of luvvies and starlets?
When Elektra is discovered by an acting agent, she imagines Oscar glory can't be far away, but instead lurches from one cringe-worthy moment to the next! Just how many times can you be rejected for the part of 'Dead Girl Number Three' without losing hope? And who knew that actors were actually supposed to be multi-lingual, play seven instruments and be trained in a variety of circus skills?
Off-stage things aren't going well either - she's fallen out with her best friend, remains firmly in the friend-zone with her crush and her parents are driving her crazy. One way or another, Elektra's life is now spent waiting for the phone to ring - waiting for callback.
Can an average girl-next-door like Elektra really make it in the world of luvvies and starlets?
346 pages, Paperback
First published January 28, 2016
11 people are currently reading
1524 people want to read
About the author
Perdita Cargill
22 books65 followersCome and meet and talk to us on www.facebook.com/waitingforcallback
or via the contact form on the website www.waitingforcallback.com ! (We're running a writing comp right now, check it out on the website)
I used to be the least numerate tax barrister ever to practise at the English bar but now I'm writing at last and it's the best 'job' in the world - not least because I'm writing funny teen books with my 18 year old daughter, Honor Cargill. Hon has just joined Good Reads - go and say hi to her!
or via the contact form on the website www.waitingforcallback.com ! (We're running a writing comp right now, check it out on the website)
I used to be the least numerate tax barrister ever to practise at the English bar but now I'm writing at last and it's the best 'job' in the world - not least because I'm writing funny teen books with my 18 year old daughter, Honor Cargill. Hon has just joined Good Reads - go and say hi to her!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
February 17, 2016
When I first started reading this book I thought "This is NOT reading material for a 63-year-old who doesn't read fiction! But this YA novel was immensely readable, and wonderfully escapist. (I haven't read an 'escapist' novel for years and it was a pleasure just to sit down and enjoy the ride....)
I had it as a bedtime read. Often I am very disappointed with my bedtime reads. (My criteria for them is they have to be light and enjoyable, but often they prove to be just badly-written dross). But this book was a thoroughly good read. If anything it failed as a bedtime read because I had difficulty putting it down.
It really brought memories back to me about having best friends when younger, and the level of fun and companionship that involved. Plus it discusses the angst of crushes on god-like males. I thought that Elektra and Archie (the main character in the book and the young man she is besotted with) both very charming. I loved it when Elektra told us she had legs like a stork - and not in a good way.
A major part of the book centres on what it is like to be caught up in the world of working as a young actor (Elektra's passion) - and this was very interesting. And it sounded realistic. I always like being introduced to new worlds.
This is a funny and jolly read....and I found it surprisingly enjoyable to get back into the mindset of being a teenager.
I had it as a bedtime read. Often I am very disappointed with my bedtime reads. (My criteria for them is they have to be light and enjoyable, but often they prove to be just badly-written dross). But this book was a thoroughly good read. If anything it failed as a bedtime read because I had difficulty putting it down.
It really brought memories back to me about having best friends when younger, and the level of fun and companionship that involved. Plus it discusses the angst of crushes on god-like males. I thought that Elektra and Archie (the main character in the book and the young man she is besotted with) both very charming. I loved it when Elektra told us she had legs like a stork - and not in a good way.
A major part of the book centres on what it is like to be caught up in the world of working as a young actor (Elektra's passion) - and this was very interesting. And it sounded realistic. I always like being introduced to new worlds.
This is a funny and jolly read....and I found it surprisingly enjoyable to get back into the mindset of being a teenager.
April 17, 2017
'Waiting for Callback' is the perfect book if you're looking for a protagonist that will work hard and chase their dreams, while also having parents that are constantly in the picture. Parental involvement, hurray! I loved how hands-on the book felt, with all the emails being exchanged about auditions, actually going to the auditions and waiting with Elektra to see if she got the roles. For someone that knows nothing about acting, it was fascinating to read about the process that felt so authentic! It definitely gave me 'Geek Girl' vibes, just with acting rather than modelling.
The thing that disappointed me with the book was how underwhelmed I was by Elektra's 'regular' school life. I was pleased that the acting took up the majority of the book, but I'd have liked more of a sense of her character outside of a casting room. That being said, the sequel sounds really promising, and I can't wait to pick it up!
The thing that disappointed me with the book was how underwhelmed I was by Elektra's 'regular' school life. I was pleased that the acting took up the majority of the book, but I'd have liked more of a sense of her character outside of a casting room. That being said, the sequel sounds really promising, and I can't wait to pick it up!
May 24, 2020
YA Shot Readalong April 2016
5 Words: Acting, school friendship, family, pressure.
My first thoughts upon finishing this book?
When's the next one out?
Because I need it now.
This book was so refreshingly funny. I've lost count of the amount of times I laughed out loud or snorted tea out of my nose (painful) or read passages out to my other half. This book is hilarious.
But it's more than just funny. Waiting for Callback tackles some pretty serious issues like friendship and bullying and first love and self-esteem and dreams and disappointment and school and family. And it does so wonderfully. The book is fantastically well written and honest, the characters are so believable and real, and I found it impossible to put down. I laughed and I cried as I read, and I absolutely loved Elektra.
I received a copy of this for free via Goodreads First Reads.
5 Words: Acting, school friendship, family, pressure.
My first thoughts upon finishing this book?
When's the next one out?
Because I need it now.
This book was so refreshingly funny. I've lost count of the amount of times I laughed out loud or snorted tea out of my nose (painful) or read passages out to my other half. This book is hilarious.
But it's more than just funny. Waiting for Callback tackles some pretty serious issues like friendship and bullying and first love and self-esteem and dreams and disappointment and school and family. And it does so wonderfully. The book is fantastically well written and honest, the characters are so believable and real, and I found it impossible to put down. I laughed and I cried as I read, and I absolutely loved Elektra.
I received a copy of this for free via Goodreads First Reads.
February 7, 2016
Well, this book just totally cured my February blues. WAITING FOR CALLBACK by dynamic mother/daughter duo Perdita and Honor Cargill is hilarious, and wonderfully fresh. The main character Elektra is juggling school life and exams with huge career ambitions that just can’t wait. A recipe for disaster? Or will Elektra get that call? The novel provides a fantastic insight into the unglamorous side of acting and chasing dreams, and I love the way that excitement and hope continuously bubble away despite the tedious waiting, disasters and rejections. From the funny and realistic dialogue to the ridiculous auditions Elektra find herself in (Dead school girl, for example), I found myself smiling, completely engrossed, all the way through. This really is a must read if you’re in need of an uplift.
October 15, 2017
This was a fun read! I really had fun with this one. It reminded me of Geek Girl in a way which was fun but it was based about a lot of waiting and drama. Yay!
I loved the way it was written. It was nice and I enjoyed Elektra's narrating. I generally enjoyed the story and want to read #2 asap. It was a nice, light read and overall I enjoyed this.
But I do feel like it was slightly predictable. I liked the characters and mostly enjoyed this but it wasn't very memorable but I do feel like it could have been a bit better. Also, the romance wasn't my favourite but I sort of #ship them. I think?
Overall, this was a fun read that I enjoyed and I will definitely be reading #2. I think it's a good book if you are in a reading slump because it made me want to finish it very quickly.
I loved the way it was written. It was nice and I enjoyed Elektra's narrating. I generally enjoyed the story and want to read #2 asap. It was a nice, light read and overall I enjoyed this.
But I do feel like it was slightly predictable. I liked the characters and mostly enjoyed this but it wasn't very memorable but I do feel like it could have been a bit better. Also, the romance wasn't my favourite but I sort of #ship them. I think?
Overall, this was a fun read that I enjoyed and I will definitely be reading #2. I think it's a good book if you are in a reading slump because it made me want to finish it very quickly.
March 7, 2016
Just like rom-coms don't get their dues - the Oscars are all over Leo DiCaprio getting eaten by a bear or whatever, but snogging and lols just don't pick up the statuettes - funny YA often gets overlooked or seen as lightweight, just because it's a dream to read. But making a comedy plot, stuffed full of jokes from one-liners to cringe-worthy scenarios, seem easy is actually HARD, so I hope WAITING FOR CALLBACK gets the awards nods it deserves.
This is a chocolate cake of a book, a good sugary and rich wodge of hyper-real characters doing screamingly funny things with straight faces - if you're a fan of CENTER STAGE or literally any behind-the-scenes film ever, you'll love this insight into the world of teenage actors. Its structure reminded me of a millennial Bridget Jones, and Perdita and Honor deserve a place in the spotlight.
This is a chocolate cake of a book, a good sugary and rich wodge of hyper-real characters doing screamingly funny things with straight faces - if you're a fan of CENTER STAGE or literally any behind-the-scenes film ever, you'll love this insight into the world of teenage actors. Its structure reminded me of a millennial Bridget Jones, and Perdita and Honor deserve a place in the spotlight.
February 13, 2016
Another one of the books that I was really looking forward to reading, and my oh my, did I love it a lot!
Quite a few people who know me know that I love books about acting, about theatre, about reality shows, about actors. I am always on the lookout for a new book about this topic, and when I heard about this book + its topic I was delighted. This one is about acting, yes, but it features a topic I haven't really spotted much in books I read so far, the whole waiting, the trying out for roles, the hoping you might get one. Waiting for callback. This book is totally dedicated to that, and infuses a bit of slice of life and romance with it in a delightful combination.
Really, now that I think of it, the only time I really saw people go through audition after audition and then waiting is in books about modelling. There are a few books about acting which feature one audition, but generally one already knows how that is going to end (since mostly they take place at the beginning/middle of the book).
Not this book. We see Elektra go through various auditions, some we see up and close, some we see her hope for, others we don't see. I found Elektra a strong, great character. Even with all that happens in this book she does her best to stay happy, to find joy in her acting. Because, as you can imagine, it is tough to get rejected for something you looked forward to. Even if it is a role as a dead person (yes, apparently there is a big need for dead people).
Elektra doesn't have it easy, I had a laugh, but also felt a bit sad when she signed up and had to name her talents... Just read, and find out what happens.
And then next to the auditions she got school (busy busy, with some mean girls), theatre/drama (with a cute/hot boy), she got friends. Her life is filled.
As for me? I kept cheering for Elektra, hoping that she would score that one big role. Or even all the smaller ones. She seems to be a great actress, full of happiness, dedication, and determination.
The parents, as expected, didn't really get Elektra's dedication to acting. Her parents wanted her to focus more on school. Though then again, at times I sympathized with them, they have to go with Elektra each time because she is still under 16, they have to wait with her for hours on an end. I can imagine that would drive anyone crazy, and then especially those who don't want to be there that much.
But I did like them later on in the book, and what they did there.
I have to say, that I didn't like Moss, at all. Well sure, to be honest there were 1 or 2 moments were I kind of liked her, but otherwise, no thank you. I found her annoying, and a hypocrite.
So you can talk about your boyfriend for ages, but oh no, not Elektra about her life/acting/waiting game. And if Elektra says something about this you get in a hissy fit? *snort*Girl.... *shakes head* Some people need to get their priorities straight.
And not only that, I just didn't feel the support in her. It was like she was fine with Elektra acting, but all the other things? No.
What more? Mm, other than that I kept laughing my butt off while reading this one. Elektra was a fantastic character, and I just have to give an extra + for the name.
I also loved that we had mail exchanges between the agency and the mother/Elektra. It just gave the book something extra, and made the waiting game even more interesting as we (the readers) got directly involved as well.
Ah yes, I would love a second book. With the ending and all that happened there? I am sure there is a story for a second book, I have several things *cough cough* the romance *cough* that I would love to see further developed.
Mm, I think I have mentioned everything now, the only thing I would do is highly recommend this book to everyone! Looking for a funny, hilarious book, with some romance? You like acting? Or like reading about it? Then be sure to read this book.
Review first posted at http://twirlingbookprincess.com/
Quite a few people who know me know that I love books about acting, about theatre, about reality shows, about actors. I am always on the lookout for a new book about this topic, and when I heard about this book + its topic I was delighted. This one is about acting, yes, but it features a topic I haven't really spotted much in books I read so far, the whole waiting, the trying out for roles, the hoping you might get one. Waiting for callback. This book is totally dedicated to that, and infuses a bit of slice of life and romance with it in a delightful combination.
Really, now that I think of it, the only time I really saw people go through audition after audition and then waiting is in books about modelling. There are a few books about acting which feature one audition, but generally one already knows how that is going to end (since mostly they take place at the beginning/middle of the book).
Not this book. We see Elektra go through various auditions, some we see up and close, some we see her hope for, others we don't see. I found Elektra a strong, great character. Even with all that happens in this book she does her best to stay happy, to find joy in her acting. Because, as you can imagine, it is tough to get rejected for something you looked forward to. Even if it is a role as a dead person (yes, apparently there is a big need for dead people).
Elektra doesn't have it easy, I had a laugh, but also felt a bit sad when she signed up and had to name her talents... Just read, and find out what happens.
And then next to the auditions she got school (busy busy, with some mean girls), theatre/drama (with a cute/hot boy), she got friends. Her life is filled.
As for me? I kept cheering for Elektra, hoping that she would score that one big role. Or even all the smaller ones. She seems to be a great actress, full of happiness, dedication, and determination.
The parents, as expected, didn't really get Elektra's dedication to acting. Her parents wanted her to focus more on school. Though then again, at times I sympathized with them, they have to go with Elektra each time because she is still under 16, they have to wait with her for hours on an end. I can imagine that would drive anyone crazy, and then especially those who don't want to be there that much.
But I did like them later on in the book, and what they did there.
I have to say, that I didn't like Moss, at all. Well sure, to be honest there were 1 or 2 moments were I kind of liked her, but otherwise, no thank you. I found her annoying, and a hypocrite.
So you can talk about your boyfriend for ages, but oh no, not Elektra about her life/acting/waiting game. And if Elektra says something about this you get in a hissy fit? *snort*Girl.... *shakes head* Some people need to get their priorities straight.
And not only that, I just didn't feel the support in her. It was like she was fine with Elektra acting, but all the other things? No.
What more? Mm, other than that I kept laughing my butt off while reading this one. Elektra was a fantastic character, and I just have to give an extra + for the name.
I also loved that we had mail exchanges between the agency and the mother/Elektra. It just gave the book something extra, and made the waiting game even more interesting as we (the readers) got directly involved as well.
Ah yes, I would love a second book. With the ending and all that happened there? I am sure there is a story for a second book, I have several things *cough cough* the romance *cough* that I would love to see further developed.
Mm, I think I have mentioned everything now, the only thing I would do is highly recommend this book to everyone! Looking for a funny, hilarious book, with some romance? You like acting? Or like reading about it? Then be sure to read this book.
Review first posted at http://twirlingbookprincess.com/
January 1, 2022
There is always that girl, the one with her iPhone camera on. That girl who'll record your most embarrassing moments and upload it on Facebook. It'll take, like, seven seconds for her to finish the task. There is always that best friend whose focus becomes her new bourgeoning relationship. That best friend who decides to sit for lunch with her love interest, (in case they missed some pivotal details of each other's lives in the short amount of time).
There is always that extremely charismatic guy (whom you have crush on), He has you in the firm grip of "Friendzone". There is always that nice friend whom you can talk to without pretence. There is always that mean girl whom you loathe.
Elektra is the girl who is discovered by an acting agent. She imagines Oscar glory can't be far away. She tries not to embarrass herself in front of her friends and her super hot crush, Archie. The questions are: Will she get her callback? How long will she remain in friend zone? Will she straighten the crumpled sheet of friendship with former bestie Moss? How unlucky can a girl-next-door like Elektra possibly get?
A laughter inducing debut that comes with fluffy drama. Waiting for callback is a stunning start to a new teen series. I am sure it'll warm other people's hearts like it warmed mine.
This book is exactly what I needed after my fantasy high. I thought I'd just read a couple chapters and put it down. How wrong I was! I finished this book is one sitting and now I am sad that it's over. WFC kept me intrigued and entertained with Elektra's (how cool is that name?!) hilarious yet cringe worthy moments. I can give this book 5 stars rating alone for the acknowledgments, so funny that tears welled up in my eyes and my stomach kind of hurt from laughing too much.
I love Elektra's lists, emails, and those waiting chapters. I like how the chapters start with quotes from various celebrities, those tiny emojis here and there. Don't you just love it when authors and publishers take ordinary steps to make their work a little bit extraordinary? I loved this book and I highly recommend it.
There is always that extremely charismatic guy (whom you have crush on), He has you in the firm grip of "Friendzone". There is always that nice friend whom you can talk to without pretence. There is always that mean girl whom you loathe.
Elektra is the girl who is discovered by an acting agent. She imagines Oscar glory can't be far away. She tries not to embarrass herself in front of her friends and her super hot crush, Archie. The questions are: Will she get her callback? How long will she remain in friend zone? Will she straighten the crumpled sheet of friendship with former bestie Moss? How unlucky can a girl-next-door like Elektra possibly get?
A laughter inducing debut that comes with fluffy drama. Waiting for callback is a stunning start to a new teen series. I am sure it'll warm other people's hearts like it warmed mine.
This book is exactly what I needed after my fantasy high. I thought I'd just read a couple chapters and put it down. How wrong I was! I finished this book is one sitting and now I am sad that it's over. WFC kept me intrigued and entertained with Elektra's (how cool is that name?!) hilarious yet cringe worthy moments. I can give this book 5 stars rating alone for the acknowledgments, so funny that tears welled up in my eyes and my stomach kind of hurt from laughing too much.
I love Elektra's lists, emails, and those waiting chapters. I like how the chapters start with quotes from various celebrities, those tiny emojis here and there. Don't you just love it when authors and publishers take ordinary steps to make their work a little bit extraordinary? I loved this book and I highly recommend it.
February 6, 2016
Originally posted atCheezyfeet Books.
So I started reading Waiting For Callback in the midst of my first bout of university exams. I had been MEGA stressed about these and could never escape the scary thoughts of what the stress was doing to my body and especially how it was affecting my mental health, and I needed to do something to distract myself, literally for my own sanity and well-being. One night when I couldn't sleep I picked up Waiting For Callback and it was exactly what I needed. Something fun, light-hearted and easy to read, and before I knew it I was 100 pages in and loving it (and thinking 'oh no it's 12:30am and I'm really tired but I don't want to stop reading'). It perfectly distracted me from my thoughts as I got lost in Elektra's story, and I loved it.
The book begins with Elektra dressed as a spider, impersonating a carrot onstage. Yep, you read that right!! I found this weird (who wouldn't?) but I decided to roll with it - why not, eh? In the audience is an agent, who goes on to represent Elektra as she begins her career as a young actress. From here on out the story is of Elekta navigating the scary world of child acting: prepping for auditions, the feeling of failure and disappointment when they are unsuccessful, the waiting, etc. To top it all off she is also struggling with school, friendships and the emotional baggage that comes with first crushes and relationships.
Elektra's voice is super easy to read and get lost in, and also so authentic. It's odd how when I started this blog I was younger than all these YA protagonists (I was thirteen, I think?), yet I realised as I was reading Waiting For Callback that now that I am nineteen, I am four years older than the main character, and older than most of the protagonists that I read about now. Yet it didn't affect my ability to relate to Elektra, as I think that the feelings and experiences that you have when you are fifteen don't go away just because you're older. Just because you're older doesn't mean you can't learn from a fifteen year old! This was just something that I found myself considering as I read, and now more as I am writing this review.
I related mostly to what Elektra was going through with her friendships and school stresses, as these things are still happening to me now, if in a slightly different way: uni rather than school, and a lot of my friends are spread over the country at other unis or still at home. One of my best friends has just got together with one of her best friends (I'm soooo happy for them) and while I don't at all feel like she's ditched me for him as Elektra does in the book, it was a tiny worry that crept into my head when she told me. It's a thought I shouldn't have had (sorry if you're reading this, you know who you are) and I think Elektra feels the same- she knows it's silly, yet it's so hard not to listen to the thoughts in your head, no matter what age you are. So yeah I know since a lot of the readers of my blog probably are adults reading YA I don't need to tell you this but I've done a lot of growing up very quickly in the last few months and it's scary, but it's a comfort to know that some things don't change.
The other major (actually probably the main) part of the book is obviously Elektra's auditions and blossoming career as a young actress. I've never been interested in drama or acting (drama class at school was my second least favourite, only after PE), but I do like watching films and TV a lot so it was cool to see a little bit about how casting works and the background things that happen so far in advance of a film that you hardly ever or really never think about when you're sitting back and enjoying watching something. I dunno how realistic they are but they fooled me if they're not! Haha. I felt Elektra's frustration right along with her, and found it just as upsetting when she missed out on parts or when things went mega wrong! I was impressed by how much she didn't let it go to her head and by how mature she was (most of the time!) about it! I was worried at first that she'd be a brat and while she did have some moments it wasn't over-the-top drama queen (that was all Flissy!) so I didn't mind.
Basically, go read Waiting For Callback. It's light-hearted and doesn't take itself too seriously, yet still manages to deal really well with some mature themes. I am so pleased I chose to read this in the middle of exams too, since it meant that I could easily escape from my own head even for a little while, giving me perspective. To top it all off there was more than one Chuck Bass reference in there, and any book that acknowledges the existence and perfection of Chuck Bass is one that I want to read ;) I will definitely be looking out for future books by this mother-daughter duo (and maybe a sequel?! I don't think it needs one necessarily but I definitely would not turn it away!) and you so should too!
*Huge thanks to Simon and Schuster for providing me with a copy of Waiting For Callback in exchange for an honest review. In no way has this affected my opinion of the novel.
So I started reading Waiting For Callback in the midst of my first bout of university exams. I had been MEGA stressed about these and could never escape the scary thoughts of what the stress was doing to my body and especially how it was affecting my mental health, and I needed to do something to distract myself, literally for my own sanity and well-being. One night when I couldn't sleep I picked up Waiting For Callback and it was exactly what I needed. Something fun, light-hearted and easy to read, and before I knew it I was 100 pages in and loving it (and thinking 'oh no it's 12:30am and I'm really tired but I don't want to stop reading'). It perfectly distracted me from my thoughts as I got lost in Elektra's story, and I loved it.
The book begins with Elektra dressed as a spider, impersonating a carrot onstage. Yep, you read that right!! I found this weird (who wouldn't?) but I decided to roll with it - why not, eh? In the audience is an agent, who goes on to represent Elektra as she begins her career as a young actress. From here on out the story is of Elekta navigating the scary world of child acting: prepping for auditions, the feeling of failure and disappointment when they are unsuccessful, the waiting, etc. To top it all off she is also struggling with school, friendships and the emotional baggage that comes with first crushes and relationships.
Elektra's voice is super easy to read and get lost in, and also so authentic. It's odd how when I started this blog I was younger than all these YA protagonists (I was thirteen, I think?), yet I realised as I was reading Waiting For Callback that now that I am nineteen, I am four years older than the main character, and older than most of the protagonists that I read about now. Yet it didn't affect my ability to relate to Elektra, as I think that the feelings and experiences that you have when you are fifteen don't go away just because you're older. Just because you're older doesn't mean you can't learn from a fifteen year old! This was just something that I found myself considering as I read, and now more as I am writing this review.
I related mostly to what Elektra was going through with her friendships and school stresses, as these things are still happening to me now, if in a slightly different way: uni rather than school, and a lot of my friends are spread over the country at other unis or still at home. One of my best friends has just got together with one of her best friends (I'm soooo happy for them) and while I don't at all feel like she's ditched me for him as Elektra does in the book, it was a tiny worry that crept into my head when she told me. It's a thought I shouldn't have had (sorry if you're reading this, you know who you are) and I think Elektra feels the same- she knows it's silly, yet it's so hard not to listen to the thoughts in your head, no matter what age you are. So yeah I know since a lot of the readers of my blog probably are adults reading YA I don't need to tell you this but I've done a lot of growing up very quickly in the last few months and it's scary, but it's a comfort to know that some things don't change.
The other major (actually probably the main) part of the book is obviously Elektra's auditions and blossoming career as a young actress. I've never been interested in drama or acting (drama class at school was my second least favourite, only after PE), but I do like watching films and TV a lot so it was cool to see a little bit about how casting works and the background things that happen so far in advance of a film that you hardly ever or really never think about when you're sitting back and enjoying watching something. I dunno how realistic they are but they fooled me if they're not! Haha. I felt Elektra's frustration right along with her, and found it just as upsetting when she missed out on parts or when things went mega wrong! I was impressed by how much she didn't let it go to her head and by how mature she was (most of the time!) about it! I was worried at first that she'd be a brat and while she did have some moments it wasn't over-the-top drama queen (that was all Flissy!) so I didn't mind.
Basically, go read Waiting For Callback. It's light-hearted and doesn't take itself too seriously, yet still manages to deal really well with some mature themes. I am so pleased I chose to read this in the middle of exams too, since it meant that I could easily escape from my own head even for a little while, giving me perspective. To top it all off there was more than one Chuck Bass reference in there, and any book that acknowledges the existence and perfection of Chuck Bass is one that I want to read ;) I will definitely be looking out for future books by this mother-daughter duo (and maybe a sequel?! I don't think it needs one necessarily but I definitely would not turn it away!) and you so should too!
*Huge thanks to Simon and Schuster for providing me with a copy of Waiting For Callback in exchange for an honest review. In no way has this affected my opinion of the novel.
February 15, 2020
1-1,5 Sterne. Das Buch hat mir nicht gefallen. Meiner Meinung nach ist elektra einfach ein verwöhnte kleines kind. Aber gut vermutlich bin ich auch nicht mehr die Zielgruppe des Buches.
February 17, 2016
Debut novel Waiting for Callback is what I needed. I read at the end of last year because I couldn't wait and although it seem like a very young book, I find that some really don't work and some are actually pretty brilliant and I believe that WFC is in the later category for me.
Elektra James, she isn't no superhero but she is pretty unique character for this YA novel. It first begins as Elektra: "I'm dressed as a spider, waiting to go on stage to impersonate a carrot." That line really says it all. After that performance she was discovered by an acting agency. But it isn't all movies and TV shows, she didn't' quite realise that she was going to be 'dead' sometimes or even just a voice on a commercial. What I loved is that Peridta and Honor touched upon the realistic approaches to acting and to the life of a teenager, it hits up first love, friendships and family. This novel certainly didn't lack any drama, embarrassment and poignant moments of a life of a teenager. They didn't make it that acting isn't always easy for some people, you have to work for it and sometimes there will be a lot of disappointment in between.
As a duo authored novel it was my first and also by a mother and daughter I had my concerns as to how it would read when there could be conflict of writing or exchange of ideas. But I guess my curiosity picked at me and I enjoyed it far more. What I enjoyed was that Honor and Perdita reflects what there relationship truly is like, that are strong and so in tune, it's amazing to be honest it's showed between Elektra and her mum too, how it could be based on them not as individuals but as family.
When I recieved my copy in the post and saw the bright happy cover and the quote "Geek Girl meets Fame.." I knew it would be for me. Although I hadn't read Geek Girl, I just needed an easy, funny, that puts-a-smile-on-your-face-till-the-very-end type of book. Waiting for Callback ticked all those boxes for me. This novel proved to be one of my favourite younger YA I've read in a while and I would recommend to those who loved anything similar from the likes of Ally Carter, Holly Smale and Jenny McLachlan! Waiting For Callback is a super-cute, amazing and light novel that awarded its 5 stars from me.
Rating - 5
Elektra James, she isn't no superhero but she is pretty unique character for this YA novel. It first begins as Elektra: "I'm dressed as a spider, waiting to go on stage to impersonate a carrot." That line really says it all. After that performance she was discovered by an acting agency. But it isn't all movies and TV shows, she didn't' quite realise that she was going to be 'dead' sometimes or even just a voice on a commercial. What I loved is that Peridta and Honor touched upon the realistic approaches to acting and to the life of a teenager, it hits up first love, friendships and family. This novel certainly didn't lack any drama, embarrassment and poignant moments of a life of a teenager. They didn't make it that acting isn't always easy for some people, you have to work for it and sometimes there will be a lot of disappointment in between.
As a duo authored novel it was my first and also by a mother and daughter I had my concerns as to how it would read when there could be conflict of writing or exchange of ideas. But I guess my curiosity picked at me and I enjoyed it far more. What I enjoyed was that Honor and Perdita reflects what there relationship truly is like, that are strong and so in tune, it's amazing to be honest it's showed between Elektra and her mum too, how it could be based on them not as individuals but as family.
When I recieved my copy in the post and saw the bright happy cover and the quote "Geek Girl meets Fame.." I knew it would be for me. Although I hadn't read Geek Girl, I just needed an easy, funny, that puts-a-smile-on-your-face-till-the-very-end type of book. Waiting for Callback ticked all those boxes for me. This novel proved to be one of my favourite younger YA I've read in a while and I would recommend to those who loved anything similar from the likes of Ally Carter, Holly Smale and Jenny McLachlan! Waiting For Callback is a super-cute, amazing and light novel that awarded its 5 stars from me.
Rating - 5
January 27, 2016
Whether it’s the inspired pairing of a mother and daughter author team, or simply the authors' great perceptive insight, Waiting for Callback auditions brilliantly for the part of freshest new voice in young teen fiction.
It tells the story of fifteen year old Elektra, as she struggles to fulfil her dream of becoming an actor, at the same time as she juggles with the everyday dramas a teen faces, from a row with a best friend, schoolwork, a crush on a boy, to frustrating parents and an eccentric grandmother.
The book cleverly portrays the unglamorous world of acting – even when Elektra signs with an agency, it’s mundanely situated above a dentist surgery, and she gets offered bit part roles in advertisements and student films – the part of Dead Girl Number Three, for example – there’s no sudden red carpet or flight to Hollywood.
Accompanying this realistic portrayal of a teen acting career are the fleshed out characters surrounding Elektra. Her parents are a phenomenal supporting cast in the book – their emotional and financial support for Elektra are depicted beautifully, as are their moments of irritation and frustration with their own daughter. Although told in the first person by Elektra, the character of her mother is captured beautifully – the conversations of ‘how did it go’ after her auditions are spot on, as are the hours she spends waiting for her daughter to finish filming some bit part, as well as the father’s detached yet loving interest. Their accurate portrayal induced many wry smiles and snorts of agreement.
There’s incredible detail of the acting classes that Elektra takes too – she finds much of it pointless to begin with, but warms to it, and her enjoyment shines through despite her teenage ‘lack of enthusiasm’ attitude.
The writing is so confident and clear that the reader is pulled along on Elektra’s journey, and roots for every casting with her. Add to this the constant deadpan comedy, and this is a pleasurable and fun read from start to finish. For the rest of the review, please see http://wp.me/p5mtrm-x3
It tells the story of fifteen year old Elektra, as she struggles to fulfil her dream of becoming an actor, at the same time as she juggles with the everyday dramas a teen faces, from a row with a best friend, schoolwork, a crush on a boy, to frustrating parents and an eccentric grandmother.
The book cleverly portrays the unglamorous world of acting – even when Elektra signs with an agency, it’s mundanely situated above a dentist surgery, and she gets offered bit part roles in advertisements and student films – the part of Dead Girl Number Three, for example – there’s no sudden red carpet or flight to Hollywood.
Accompanying this realistic portrayal of a teen acting career are the fleshed out characters surrounding Elektra. Her parents are a phenomenal supporting cast in the book – their emotional and financial support for Elektra are depicted beautifully, as are their moments of irritation and frustration with their own daughter. Although told in the first person by Elektra, the character of her mother is captured beautifully – the conversations of ‘how did it go’ after her auditions are spot on, as are the hours she spends waiting for her daughter to finish filming some bit part, as well as the father’s detached yet loving interest. Their accurate portrayal induced many wry smiles and snorts of agreement.
There’s incredible detail of the acting classes that Elektra takes too – she finds much of it pointless to begin with, but warms to it, and her enjoyment shines through despite her teenage ‘lack of enthusiasm’ attitude.
The writing is so confident and clear that the reader is pulled along on Elektra’s journey, and roots for every casting with her. Add to this the constant deadpan comedy, and this is a pleasurable and fun read from start to finish. For the rest of the review, please see http://wp.me/p5mtrm-x3
February 28, 2016
I got to interview mother-daughter writing team Perdita and Honor Cargill about their debut, WAITING FOR CALLBACK, for the Swanky Seventeens (MG and YA authors debuting in 2017). The interview was a lot of fun and their book sounded like the perfect fun read: a teen who lands an acting agent and thinks her career is about to start, only to find that life "waiting for callback" is a lot more complicated than she expects.
When I got a copy of the book a couple weeks later, I was thrilled. And the book was just as fun and light-hearted as I had hoped. Elektra (and yes, she's aware that her name is horrible) is smart, spunky, but not as composed as she might like. Her attitude keeps some of the discouraging things that happen to her from being overwhelming, as she navigates first love, friendship, ambition and failure. I read the book in a couple of sittings and left with a fuzzy glow.
Funny, clean, romantic and (at times) poignant, this is a wonderful escapist read.
When I got a copy of the book a couple weeks later, I was thrilled. And the book was just as fun and light-hearted as I had hoped. Elektra (and yes, she's aware that her name is horrible) is smart, spunky, but not as composed as she might like. Her attitude keeps some of the discouraging things that happen to her from being overwhelming, as she navigates first love, friendship, ambition and failure. I read the book in a couple of sittings and left with a fuzzy glow.
Funny, clean, romantic and (at times) poignant, this is a wonderful escapist read.
January 3, 2016
This was such a fun uplifting book about the ups and downs of one young teen called Elektra who dreams of being on the stage and screen. With talent and big dreams she is also a very likeable , funny , down to earth character who does not take herself too seriously or anyone around her. With a supportive family, and great friends around her she will go far and she is so nice you want her to do well. There is also a little love interest too which all adds to this fun read. While juggling school , friendship and her part time acting job it's all a great learning expierence that gets more and more exciting as she seems to have a real talent for this type of lifestyle .
I received this book for review from the lovely folks over at Lovereading4kids.
I received this book for review from the lovely folks over at Lovereading4kids.
April 20, 2020
This was really cute and fun to read!
November 14, 2017
I snagged a proof copy of this book from Luna, and didn't manage to get to it. When I found out the authors were going to be at YALC I knew I had to at least try the book, and within the first few pages I knew I was going to love it. Decision made I picked up a finished copy, planning to get both copies signed, but still never got around to reading it. After struggling to read for a while I needed a book I knew I would love, and Waiting for Callback finally found its way off my shelf and in my hands.
Elektra is the protagonist in this story, as we follow her adventures and misadventures through trying to make it in the acting business, as well as trying to live life as a teenager, with school, friends, boys, and the ups and downs that come with being a teenager. We get to see the details of Elektra's life, her parents, her friends, and her crush, who also happens to go to ACT with her. As the book progresses we see some new friendships form (Daisy a fellow actress) and also getting worse (nemesis Flissy), but the possibility of fame and introduction of a boy make it harder for Elektra and her best friend Moss to find time, and both girls find themselves struggling to maintain an easy friendship.
Going into the pages of Waiting for Callback I knew I was going to enjoy this book, but I didn't realise how much. I love the writing style of the book, and how we get to see the inner workings of Elektra's mind, even the bits she may not say out loud. We see her thoughts and feelings about what is going on at the time.
Waiting for Callback is a book that is real, honest, and hilarious. I love the lists, and the deal breakers, especially the edits later on. I liked the email exchanges between the agency and Elektra's parents. The authors also have a similar writing style to Holly Smales Geek Girl series, with the focus on acting rather than modelling, which makes this appealing to fans of that series.
Final Verdict
Waiting for Callback is a great book. I loved the quirkiness of some of the characters, but also how easy it was to relate to Elektra, even though its been several years since I was a teenager. This was an easy book to read, and the writing flows really well. I love that this is a Mother & Daughter writing team, but it definitely doesn't feel like it.
Elektra is the protagonist in this story, as we follow her adventures and misadventures through trying to make it in the acting business, as well as trying to live life as a teenager, with school, friends, boys, and the ups and downs that come with being a teenager. We get to see the details of Elektra's life, her parents, her friends, and her crush, who also happens to go to ACT with her. As the book progresses we see some new friendships form (Daisy a fellow actress) and also getting worse (nemesis Flissy), but the possibility of fame and introduction of a boy make it harder for Elektra and her best friend Moss to find time, and both girls find themselves struggling to maintain an easy friendship.
Going into the pages of Waiting for Callback I knew I was going to enjoy this book, but I didn't realise how much. I love the writing style of the book, and how we get to see the inner workings of Elektra's mind, even the bits she may not say out loud. We see her thoughts and feelings about what is going on at the time.
Waiting for Callback is a book that is real, honest, and hilarious. I love the lists, and the deal breakers, especially the edits later on. I liked the email exchanges between the agency and Elektra's parents. The authors also have a similar writing style to Holly Smales Geek Girl series, with the focus on acting rather than modelling, which makes this appealing to fans of that series.
Final Verdict
Waiting for Callback is a great book. I loved the quirkiness of some of the characters, but also how easy it was to relate to Elektra, even though its been several years since I was a teenager. This was an easy book to read, and the writing flows really well. I love that this is a Mother & Daughter writing team, but it definitely doesn't feel like it.
January 25, 2016
Originally published at http://solittletimeforbooks.blogspot....
Waiting for Callback bounces into the world of contemporary YA with a funny, charming heroine and a behind the scenes glimpse of acting. I really, really enjoyed it.
Perdita and Honor blend the acting world and the world of a 15-year-old girl battling spots, her mum and exams perfectly. I loved experiencing the gritty reality of starting out as an actor – it was rather eye-opening! The only other experiences of acting I've read about are flashy movie stars in contemporary fiction or glossy American TV shows so it was really interesting, actually. I especially liked the pressure it put on Elektra, the surprising dinginess of locations and how agonising the constant waiting was for her. It made it seem like an actual job as well as enforcing just how much Elektra enjoys it: you’d have to in order to put yourself through everything she does in Waiting for Callback!
But I mostly loved reading about Elektra’s everyday life. What can I say, I'm a contemp YA girl! I love the friction a new boy on the scene causes best friends like Elektra and Moss, the agony of dissecting what two kisses on a text from the boy you’re crushing on really means (does that ever stop, btw? Maybe when you’re married and he can't get away any more?) and the sheer annoyance of parents at times. It brings everything I loved (now in retrospect, of course) and loathed about being a teenager. I did actually find Elektra’s mum a tad irritating, though; she has no life outside of Elektra! But she also rang very honestly in her worrying, wanting her daughter to do her best and wanting to do the best for her.
I thoroughly enjoyed Waiting for Callback and I'm already looking forward to the next instalment.
Waiting for Callback bounces into the world of contemporary YA with a funny, charming heroine and a behind the scenes glimpse of acting. I really, really enjoyed it.
Perdita and Honor blend the acting world and the world of a 15-year-old girl battling spots, her mum and exams perfectly. I loved experiencing the gritty reality of starting out as an actor – it was rather eye-opening! The only other experiences of acting I've read about are flashy movie stars in contemporary fiction or glossy American TV shows so it was really interesting, actually. I especially liked the pressure it put on Elektra, the surprising dinginess of locations and how agonising the constant waiting was for her. It made it seem like an actual job as well as enforcing just how much Elektra enjoys it: you’d have to in order to put yourself through everything she does in Waiting for Callback!
But I mostly loved reading about Elektra’s everyday life. What can I say, I'm a contemp YA girl! I love the friction a new boy on the scene causes best friends like Elektra and Moss, the agony of dissecting what two kisses on a text from the boy you’re crushing on really means (does that ever stop, btw? Maybe when you’re married and he can't get away any more?) and the sheer annoyance of parents at times. It brings everything I loved (now in retrospect, of course) and loathed about being a teenager. I did actually find Elektra’s mum a tad irritating, though; she has no life outside of Elektra! But she also rang very honestly in her worrying, wanting her daughter to do her best and wanting to do the best for her.
I thoroughly enjoyed Waiting for Callback and I'm already looking forward to the next instalment.
November 29, 2016
Waiting for Callback is a super adorable story about 15 year old Elektra as she tries to find her big break. After many failed after school activities, Elektra believes she has finally found her calling in acting. Sure, she has no other talents and can't do accents, but she loves being on stage. So landing herself an agent is a very exciting time for her, even if the auditions are few and far between. With actual jobs even fewer and further. But Elektra refuses to give up! She handles every obstacle with good nature and humor.
I read Waiting for Callback straight through in just a couple of hours. Elektra's journey as a budding actress is highly entertaining! How many roles can one girl land as a corpse?! Several, but she's good at it! In between auditions and the endless waiting, we also get to witness Elektra navigate her crush on a fellow aspiring actor. Does her like her? He is just being nice? Is she reading too much into his texts?! She also has a fight with her BFF who has recently gotten a boyfriend and has to manage her school work. But like I said, Elektra handles it! Not always in the best way, but it was always entertaining to read.
If you're looking for a quick, fun, afternoon (or morning) read, definitely pick up Waiting for Callback. It's one of those books that will just make you feel good, even when embarrassing things are happening to our fearless heroine.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
I read Waiting for Callback straight through in just a couple of hours. Elektra's journey as a budding actress is highly entertaining! How many roles can one girl land as a corpse?! Several, but she's good at it! In between auditions and the endless waiting, we also get to witness Elektra navigate her crush on a fellow aspiring actor. Does her like her? He is just being nice? Is she reading too much into his texts?! She also has a fight with her BFF who has recently gotten a boyfriend and has to manage her school work. But like I said, Elektra handles it! Not always in the best way, but it was always entertaining to read.
If you're looking for a quick, fun, afternoon (or morning) read, definitely pick up Waiting for Callback. It's one of those books that will just make you feel good, even when embarrassing things are happening to our fearless heroine.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
December 29, 2015
This was an unsolicited book, which arrived just in time for me to take it with me on holiday. What attracted me to it was the brightly coloured cover. Stunning! I began it on my journey to the airport and I finished it during my 8 hour flight.
I found that this was a quick and easy read, perfect for getting away from it all and had a 'Geek Girl' feel about it. I loved that it has been written by a mother and a daughter and I think that their strong relationship has come through in this novel as it is seamless, it flowed from both of the characters point of view and you would struggle to identify who wrote what.
The main character Electra, is a budding wannabe actor. She is an ordinary teen in the sense of boys, relationships and worries. She attends an acting class and auditions for various parts, she has acting friends, who she seeks advice from and of course there is a book boyfriend in this...
Waiting for Callback is a funny novel which will appeal to many. It is not deep or serious, which is refreshing as a lot of YA seem to focus on heavier subject matter. I thoroughly enjoyed this and would recommend it to others.
I would like to thank the publisher for sending this in exchange for an honest review.
I found that this was a quick and easy read, perfect for getting away from it all and had a 'Geek Girl' feel about it. I loved that it has been written by a mother and a daughter and I think that their strong relationship has come through in this novel as it is seamless, it flowed from both of the characters point of view and you would struggle to identify who wrote what.
The main character Electra, is a budding wannabe actor. She is an ordinary teen in the sense of boys, relationships and worries. She attends an acting class and auditions for various parts, she has acting friends, who she seeks advice from and of course there is a book boyfriend in this...
Waiting for Callback is a funny novel which will appeal to many. It is not deep or serious, which is refreshing as a lot of YA seem to focus on heavier subject matter. I thoroughly enjoyed this and would recommend it to others.
I would like to thank the publisher for sending this in exchange for an honest review.
April 25, 2016
I delayed watching anime to finish this strangely gripping read, and that's a major deal when I watch anime daily (and very few human drama shows). It is really funny and accurately portrays disappointment after disappointment as Elektra fails to get a call back. It gets into what seem slike every single issue surrounding being in entertainment, and views from family and friends.
When she gets a callback it's not what she expects, but she does end up liking it and it was a really moving scene in how much Elektra learns about life. She has typical teen issues with both friends and family which added more drama and amusement to an already appealing story. Definitely one to
check out if you like learning about the acting industry.
I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review on my blog Nayu's Reading Corner http://nayusreadingcorner.blogspot.co...
When she gets a callback it's not what she expects, but she does end up liking it and it was a really moving scene in how much Elektra learns about life. She has typical teen issues with both friends and family which added more drama and amusement to an already appealing story. Definitely one to
check out if you like learning about the acting industry.
I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review on my blog Nayu's Reading Corner http://nayusreadingcorner.blogspot.co...
February 13, 2017
I received this book for free via Goodreads First Reads.
If you break down the premise of this book it could have been formulaic and predictable. Teenage girl wants to be an actress. She has a worried and over protective mother and her father is mentally absent yet well meaning. She sees boys she likes while starting to act in mostly terrible roles.
Yet, sometimes formulas turn out to be something more than the sum of their parts. This book has such a sense of warmth and love throughout it that I couldn't help but smile through most of it. You feel for the main character and want her to succeed. I saw a lot of potential in the authors too. It does make me wonder how close to the mother and daughter relationship in the book their relationship is.
My recommendation is that you should read this. No matter who you are or how old you are. It is just that good. I will definitely buy the sequel today too. A great read that fully deserves 5 stars!
If you break down the premise of this book it could have been formulaic and predictable. Teenage girl wants to be an actress. She has a worried and over protective mother and her father is mentally absent yet well meaning. She sees boys she likes while starting to act in mostly terrible roles.
Yet, sometimes formulas turn out to be something more than the sum of their parts. This book has such a sense of warmth and love throughout it that I couldn't help but smile through most of it. You feel for the main character and want her to succeed. I saw a lot of potential in the authors too. It does make me wonder how close to the mother and daughter relationship in the book their relationship is.
My recommendation is that you should read this. No matter who you are or how old you are. It is just that good. I will definitely buy the sequel today too. A great read that fully deserves 5 stars!
November 30, 2015
I really enjoyed Waiting for Callback.
The main character Elektra is really relatable in that is is just an ordinary teenager with all the usual problems around boyfriends, spots, friends and school work and I really enjoyed her story. In Waiting for Callback you get to see the world of acting through the eyes of an inexperienced teen actor as she makes her first steps into a world which isn't as glamourous as it seems from the outside which makes for lots of really funny moments throughout.
All in all a book I really enjoyed and definitely worth a look if you are a geek girl or flirty dancing fan.
The main character Elektra is really relatable in that is is just an ordinary teenager with all the usual problems around boyfriends, spots, friends and school work and I really enjoyed her story. In Waiting for Callback you get to see the world of acting through the eyes of an inexperienced teen actor as she makes her first steps into a world which isn't as glamourous as it seems from the outside which makes for lots of really funny moments throughout.
All in all a book I really enjoyed and definitely worth a look if you are a geek girl or flirty dancing fan.
December 30, 2015
I was thrilled to receive a proof copy of 'Waiting for Callback' and have been raving about it ever since. The fact that it's written by mother & daughter team Perdita & Honor is intriguing in itself . Yet what stands out for me is the writing- tight, confident, HILARIOUS. Waiting For Callback got me out of a reading slump. I can honestly say it's one of my favourite reads of 2015. It's hard to believe it's a debut!
January 24, 2016
I really enjoyed this book, the main character Elektra is funny and down to earth suffering many of the problems normal 15 years olds face with the added extra of trying to start off her acting career. The plot was good and I enjoyed that there were actor/actress quotes at the begging of each chapter :)
August 24, 2017
CORA AND THE REREADS
THIS BOOK.
I LOVE THIS BOOK.
ELEKTRA AND HER FAMILY AND FRIENDS ARE ALL AMAZING.
This is one of the funniest books I've read and reread. It makes me laugh out loud and cackle on the bus and snort in public. I can't stop myself from reading parts out loud. I couldn't put this book down.
THIS BOOK.
I LOVE THIS BOOK.
ELEKTRA AND HER FAMILY AND FRIENDS ARE ALL AMAZING.
This is one of the funniest books I've read and reread. It makes me laugh out loud and cackle on the bus and snort in public. I can't stop myself from reading parts out loud. I couldn't put this book down.
May 27, 2018
WHY did I wait so long to read this masterpiece.
September 11, 2017
A witty, light-hearted read with authentic characters.
If you want to write an authentic teenage voice, what should you do? Collaborate with a teenager. Written by mother and daughter team Perdita and Honor Cargill, Elektra’s voice was one of the most authentic I’ve read this year, (alongside Editing Emma, for reference.) Elektra isn’t an independent, multi-talented typical YA protagonist. She is a teenage kid. There is an assumption that teens don’t want to be portrayed as kids, but nobody explains where this assumption comes from. OK, we’re getting historical, but I remember refusing to watch The OC because it was basically about people in their 20s. Any similar book or programme was automatically vetoed. There’s a difference between exploring a slowly increasing independence and portraying totally independent characters.
I love Elektra’s friendships, and her family relationships. Friends put each other into awkward situations to gain social status. Other friends are there to commiserate over coffee. Everybody wants a boyfriend, but half the relationships are superficial. It was also great to see the conflict between Elektra the child and Elektra the young adult. Acting puts the clock back on Elektra’s independence. Suddenly, she needs escorting to auditions, and parental permission for every move. I loved how Elektra’s Mum’s perspective came across alongside Elektra’s. She’s a super-protective Mum who struggles with her daughter’s emerging adulthood.
The portrayal of London is spot-on. Too many novels set in London feature excessive numbers of landmarks, street-map precision and thought-provoking themes. Predita and Honor Cargill capture the bordem of middle class day-to-day life in London. Move it down the Central Line, and it could have been my childhood. I howled with laughter as Elektra tallied how many after-school clubs she had attended with how many actual skills she had (think 25:0 respectively.) Moss’s mother? I have met that woman many times over. I have seen parents buying up a shelf of KS1 revision guides, (yup, KS1.) I’ve met parents who say Food Technology and Drama aren’t real subjects, then ground their children for a month for messing around in said subjects. Parents who want the best for their child, but aren’t prepared to believe their child might discover their own ‘best’ given a little space.
The plot isn't overcomplicated, and the book’s strength is its realistic voice and setting. This combined makes it super readable. I sped through, and can’t wait to read the second.
If you want to write an authentic teenage voice, what should you do? Collaborate with a teenager. Written by mother and daughter team Perdita and Honor Cargill, Elektra’s voice was one of the most authentic I’ve read this year, (alongside Editing Emma, for reference.) Elektra isn’t an independent, multi-talented typical YA protagonist. She is a teenage kid. There is an assumption that teens don’t want to be portrayed as kids, but nobody explains where this assumption comes from. OK, we’re getting historical, but I remember refusing to watch The OC because it was basically about people in their 20s. Any similar book or programme was automatically vetoed. There’s a difference between exploring a slowly increasing independence and portraying totally independent characters.
I love Elektra’s friendships, and her family relationships. Friends put each other into awkward situations to gain social status. Other friends are there to commiserate over coffee. Everybody wants a boyfriend, but half the relationships are superficial. It was also great to see the conflict between Elektra the child and Elektra the young adult. Acting puts the clock back on Elektra’s independence. Suddenly, she needs escorting to auditions, and parental permission for every move. I loved how Elektra’s Mum’s perspective came across alongside Elektra’s. She’s a super-protective Mum who struggles with her daughter’s emerging adulthood.
The portrayal of London is spot-on. Too many novels set in London feature excessive numbers of landmarks, street-map precision and thought-provoking themes. Predita and Honor Cargill capture the bordem of middle class day-to-day life in London. Move it down the Central Line, and it could have been my childhood. I howled with laughter as Elektra tallied how many after-school clubs she had attended with how many actual skills she had (think 25:0 respectively.) Moss’s mother? I have met that woman many times over. I have seen parents buying up a shelf of KS1 revision guides, (yup, KS1.) I’ve met parents who say Food Technology and Drama aren’t real subjects, then ground their children for a month for messing around in said subjects. Parents who want the best for their child, but aren’t prepared to believe their child might discover their own ‘best’ given a little space.
The plot isn't overcomplicated, and the book’s strength is its realistic voice and setting. This combined makes it super readable. I sped through, and can’t wait to read the second.
March 29, 2017
This was exactly the read I needed right now. Fun, lighthearted and the best thing to keep me distracted from exam stress. I loooveed the whole premise of behind the scenes not so glam movie making, innocent first loves and friendship drama. You can't disect these books too much or it just ruins the fun :P
This was thoroughly entertaining!
This was thoroughly entertaining!
April 8, 2017
Rating = 5*s
You can read this review in full here: https://bookendsandendings.wordpress....
I had been wanting to read this book for quite a while, as I really enjoyed the Geek Girl books, and I had heard about the book from various events, such as YA Shot, so I was happy to finally have gotten around to reading it!
For me, what really made Waiting for Callback stand out from other books where seemingly average girls are whipped into a whirlwind world of fame was the fact that things didn’t happen quickly for Elektra, and there was, I felt, a degree of realism which I really appreciated. Obviously I am no expert on how easy it is to get work in the acting world, but standard idea is that it is very difficult indeed, and I thought that this book didn’t get swept up in glamour. Elektra had her fair share of disappointments, delays, rejections – and there were even some successes which, despite being much-anticipated jobs, were nowhere near what she may have expected initially.
You can read this review in full here: https://bookendsandendings.wordpress....
I had been wanting to read this book for quite a while, as I really enjoyed the Geek Girl books, and I had heard about the book from various events, such as YA Shot, so I was happy to finally have gotten around to reading it!
For me, what really made Waiting for Callback stand out from other books where seemingly average girls are whipped into a whirlwind world of fame was the fact that things didn’t happen quickly for Elektra, and there was, I felt, a degree of realism which I really appreciated. Obviously I am no expert on how easy it is to get work in the acting world, but standard idea is that it is very difficult indeed, and I thought that this book didn’t get swept up in glamour. Elektra had her fair share of disappointments, delays, rejections – and there were even some successes which, despite being much-anticipated jobs, were nowhere near what she may have expected initially.
May 28, 2016
I was super-excited to receive an early copy of this debut via a Goodreads giveaway, and it definitely brightened an otherwise wet, cold Sunday afternoon! It was light and fun, and had me smiling and even laughing out loud at times.
The fact that the book has been written by a mother/daughter team is really interesting and unusual, and I think that this has worked incredibly well - the teenage voice is very authentic, but at the same time the point of view of the parents also comes across convincingly.
I loved that all the characters had little quirks that made them believable, like the mother's neuroses, the grandmother's hedonism, and the architect father's obsession with minimalist interior design.
When it comes to YA, I generally veer towards quite dark stuff or fantasy, so this was a refreshing change for me. I think it'll go down well with young teenagers, and I really look forward to seeing what this writing duo come up with next!
The fact that the book has been written by a mother/daughter team is really interesting and unusual, and I think that this has worked incredibly well - the teenage voice is very authentic, but at the same time the point of view of the parents also comes across convincingly.
I loved that all the characters had little quirks that made them believable, like the mother's neuroses, the grandmother's hedonism, and the architect father's obsession with minimalist interior design.
When it comes to YA, I generally veer towards quite dark stuff or fantasy, so this was a refreshing change for me. I think it'll go down well with young teenagers, and I really look forward to seeing what this writing duo come up with next!
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