Review of The Rock 'n Roll Kids

[Onuoha Joy]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Rock 'n Roll Kids" by Liam Clancy.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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A parent's duty often entails granting their children access to education, but what happens when that duty conflicts with their desires? When did the dreams they had for their children's future begin to diverge from the dreams they had for themselves? "The Rock 'n Roll Kids" by Liam G. Clancy masterfully explores the delicate balance between parental guidance and personal ambition as Rocky and Lizzy struggle to reconcile their aspirations with the expectations of their father, Piper Jim. 

Pipe Sergeant Jim Rockingham is given a task by an influential friend to gather information about an honest captain in the army to eliminate and destroy his career. Unknown to Jim's son Rocky, his father already had it planned to involve him as a spy by making him obtain a barman's job at McKee Officer's Mess. Rocky had a half-brother in the army, popularly known as Lizzy, whom Jim was usually ashamed to associate with. Rocky is an easygoing person and soon makes friends with people at his workplace, including his superiors like Captain Gilmore, the captain marked out for destruction. Despite working here, Rocky is still persistent with his music, much to the dismay of his father. His life, however, takes a serious turn after he overhears some crazy conspiracies and is taken to Lebanon on a UN peacekeeping mission. Did he abandon his passion for music? Or did he submit to his father's career path and plans? 

Dreams vs. Duty is one very compelling theme in this book. Rocky's desire to pursue music as a career is at odds with his father's wishes for him to have a military career, highlighting the tension between following one's passion and fulfilling parental expectations. This theme shows that pursuing one's dream can lead to happiness and success, even if it goes against the expectations of others. The author also highlights corruption and power struggles throughout this book. The story exposes the darker aspects of military and political hierarchies, revealing the corrupting influence of power and the lengths to which individuals will go to maintain or gain control. This theme is evident in Piper Jim's willingness to compromise his values and relationships to advance his career, the conspiracy to smear Captain Gilmore's name, the underlying motives of self-preservation and power, and the corrupt cabals that operate in the shadows, pulling strings to manipulate outcomes. Music's unifying and comforting force is also a constant theme in Clancy's book. The story highlights music's ability to bridge gaps, provide comfort, unite people, and inspire growth. 

The majority of the plot is set in Dublin. Other places where some parts of the plot are set include Lebanon, Cadiz, and London. I would recommend this book to lovers of musical narratives, those who are contemplating giving up on their dreams due to parental or peer pressure, and anyone who loves a good novel. I would rate this book a 5 out of 5. The editor gave me no room for errors, giving me no reason to seek an improvement to the book.

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The Rock 'n Roll Kids
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[Mojisola Omowunmi Omotosho]

Fantastic exploration of dreams versus duty! The reviewer's enthusiasm has me intrigued—I might just check this out.

[Obido Samuel Chiemerie]

“The Rock ‘n Roll Kids” by Liam G. Clancy poignantly explores the clash between personal dreams and parental expectations through the journey of Rocky Rockingham. With a compelling narrative that weaves music, family dynamics, and political intrigue, Clancy’s novel stands out for its vivid portrayal of ambition versus duty. The book’s seamless integration of its themes makes it a must-read for those grappling with their own aspirations amidst external pressures.

[Sandre Lamar]

"The Rock 'n Roll Kids" by Liam G. Clancy weaves a captivating tale of dreams, duty, and intrigue. It explores the clash between personal aspirations and parental expectations amidst a backdrop of military espionage and musical passion.