Rock star recess

K-Gr 3--Music class has Elsie feeling uninspired, so when her teacher tells her to rock out on her own time, she enlists her best friends Lizzy and Luke to start a band. Their goal is to put on the biggest concert their class can imagine in the 30 minutes they get for recess. The trio, now known as the Rebells, has thought of everything: hair, makeup, publicity, crowd control, a band manager, refreshments, and stage effects. However, when they are ready for their big moment they realize they forgot to practice the music. Unsure of what to play for their fans, the Rebells improvise with a classic tune. While the story is contemporary, Mullock has created a nod to rock stars of the past with a retro neon palette and detailed illustrations that create whimsy and add energy to the book. VERDICT Reminiscent of Laura Numeroff's works, this title takes a lively look at what's possible during recess when friends let their imaginations run wild. Best suited for elementary collections and independent readers who enjoy humor.--Monisha Blair