Review of Clay Nichols

[Laney K]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Clay Nichols" by Gary R Bingham.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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Clay Nichols by Gary R Bingham is a book that spans the childhood and early adulthood of Clay, a boy with immense musical talent. Clay had found his dad's old guitar one day, and his mother encouraged him to learn how to play it. Clay, though unsure at first, soon realized he was gifted and enjoyed music. Alongside a few friends from school, he started a band. In the background is the mystery that surrounds Clay's dad. He can't be around due to some unknown security concern, and the secrets surrounding him dwell in Clay's mind. Will Clay learn what his father is up to? How will Clay's music progress? All answers lie in Clay Nichols.

The majority of this book is told through dialogue. I enjoyed how the conversations gave insight into the characters. It also helped to portray the theme of secrets because it's often hard to tell when someone is lying. After all, half-truths are so easy to speak. There was just enough description to bring the book to light, and the dialogue drove the plot along.

I also liked how the book jumped through points in time. Clay, as a young child, started writing in a diary. His older self was rereading those, so the book jumped from the present to the past as Clay relived all the events from his life that shaped his childhood. The book also spanned about ten years which meant the reader got to see Clay grow up and develop his passions.

I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. Due to the number of errors being greater than ten, I must take off a star. With another round of thorough proofreading, this book would be able to really shine. However, as it stands, it is an excellent concept with some editing issues. I believe that teens and adults who have a passion for music would enjoy this book. The themes of family, secrets, and following your passion drive forward the narrative and turn Clay into a compelling protagonist.

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Clay Nichols
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[Rica Concepcion]

The book sounds great; a musical concept, family, and confidential matters are tackled in the book. The kids will like this book. I appreciate the honest and comprehensive review. Well done 

[Amy Luman]

What’s going on with Clay’s dad? Dialogue is great! I enjoy being shown what is happening and not told.

[RutvikPatel]

Your review of "Clay Nichols" by Gary R Bingham provides a thoughtful analysis of the book's strengths and areas for improvement.You effectively highlight the book's reliance on dialogue as a means of character development and plot progression. This focus on conversation and the portrayal of secrets through half-truths adds depth to the narrative and creates a sense of intrigue.