Learn the Lyrics

Just Be, Book 4

By: Sara Pyszka

Narrated by: Corrie Legge

New school. New friends. New Brynn. And maybe a new boyfriend?

Brynn Evason had always been on the fence about going to college, but RCU’s Arts for All program won her over with its accessible dorms, personal care assistants (PCAs), and independent studies in which she’ll learn more about the things she loves to do, including songwriting.

She’s looking forward to a fresh start, especially since her relationship with Tommy came to a screeching halt during the summer. Her best friend, Randi, encourages her to keep her eyes open for cute guys on campus, but Brynn doesn’t think she’s ready to date again.

The breakup had been her idea, but that didn’t make it any less painful, and although they text from time to time, and Tommy plans to visit her on campus, Brynn isn’t sure if he’s part of her future, or if she should leave him in the past.

It’s difficult to keep memories of their relationship from popping up, though, especially when every lyric she writes for her songwriting seminar seems to be about Tommy. Luckily, her mentor and songwriting partner, Trevor, is understanding and helps her shape her feelings into songs she’s proud of.

Brynn can’t deny her immediate connection to Trevor, and as the semester progresses, their songwriting partnership inches toward a different type of partnership. The type that Brynn had all but sworn off.

Will the first semester of college bring Brynn the life experiences she’s been after, as well as a bit of romance? Or will Tommy wiggle his way back into her life as a friend . . . or something more?

©2023 Sara Pyszka (P)2024 Sara Pyszka

Book #4 of an exceptional & enjoyable series.

I have really enjoyed all of Sara Pyszka’s books. They’re well written, sustain your interest & give a rare glimpse into her unique world. I love the “Just Be” series because Brynn Evason is a distinctive character who not only is full of life, personality & talent; she also has cerebral palsy which limits her mobility & audible speech. Her desires are the same as anyone, yet she must navigate a world that can be judgemental, impatient & even ignore her as she uses her “techno talk” device to speak. Brynn types words with her eyes, (a real technology that many more people need access to). This book is about a young adult finding her independence, social groups, honing her skills and gifting all the while trying to balance personal care givers & being heard. I’m already looking forward to book #5.

Overall, I think the narrator’s voice is perfect for the main character, Brynn & the other female characters in the book. My only cons in this book would be the irritating & fast voice of Trevor and the slowness in which Tommy speaks - both of which, in my opinion, seemed to be a distraction and/or took away from their characters.