I’m Glad I Did Review
Cynthia Weil, a Grammy winner and Oscar-nominated songwriter, brings us a captivating coming-of-age story about a 16-year-old aspiring songwriter. Set in the summer of 1963, the novel realistically depicts the past, largely thanks to Weil’s deep personal knowledge of the music industry of that era.
The protagonist, J.J. Green, lands a summer job as an assistant to a prominent music producer in the famed Brill Building, helped by her uncle who is already part of the music industry. Her responsibilities include writing and pitching songs. However, J.J. faces pressure from her lawyer-filled family, who want her to pursue a legal career. She has just three months to record a song and prove herself or abandon her dream.
At home, J.J. lacks support, except from her uncle, who is estranged from the family. She steps into this new world of music with a mix of excitement and insecurity, questioning her own talent. One night, while working on some original music, she befriends Darcie, a custodian who was once a famous singer until drugs derailed her career. Now clean, Darcie mentors J.J., helping her find confidence in her songwriting abilities. J.J.’s confidence grows further when she meets a charismatic young lyricist, and together, they write a bluesy song. They also find themselves falling in love.
However, their budding romance and collaboration are overshadowed by a suspicious murder. As secrets related to theft and corruption start to unravel, J.J. is drawn into the darker side of the music industry. The suspense thickens as she races to uncover the murderer before it’s too late.
Weil’s debut novel eloquently transports readers back to the 1960s with rich, detailed descriptions. Her characters are vividly crafted, each with unique voices that feel authentic. The novel skillfully balances themes of family conflict, love, and friendship, making it a compelling coming-of-age story.
Cynthia Weil, known for classics like “You’ve Lost that Lovin’ Feeling” and “Where Have You Been All My Life,” brings her storytelling prowess to the young adult genre seamlessly. While some teens might not recognize the artists mentioned, they will still enjoy the intriguing mystery, love story, and J.J.’s relatable journey toward self-discovery. This book is a fantastic debut from one of the music industry’s most talented songwriters, and you’ll wish you could hear the songs described within its pages.
