You, Me, and Our Heartstrings

Debut author See writes with authority about a talented teenage violinist who has cerebral palsy in this swoony romance. Juilliard hopeful Daisy Abano, a white senior at the prestigious Manhattan Academy of Musical Performance, is thrilled when she’s chosen to play a concert duet with her crush Noah Moray, a white cello prodigy who has anxiety and |is from “one of the most illustrious music families in all of New York City.” Despite their differing opinions on what music to play, the two are well-matched performers. When their dazzling concert performance—and their passionate on-stage kiss—goes viral, the pair are launched into the limelight. While Daisy is rightfully upset by ableist comments calling her an inspiration for “overcoming [her] cerebral palsy,” she knows that the fame could better her chances of receiving a scholarship to Juilliard. But as the remarks increase in frequency and the notoriety exacerbates Noah’s anxiety, the duo’s relationship becomes strained. Although the novel’s message leans on formulaic plot beats, Daisy and Noah’s alternating perspectives offer an enticing portrayal of two teens confronting obstacles while falling in love in the public eye. Ages 12–up. Agent: Emily Forney, BookEnds Literary. (July)