Finalist in the NZ Awards for Children & Young Adult 2025, the judges wrote;
"Violet Grumble is putting aside her performance (and social) anxiety, picking up a guitar and starting a band. But when stuff starts to go missing, band rivalry tensions reach a new high. A riotously fun and brilliantly constructed adventure that incorporates a heartfelt and accurate depiction of the ADHD girl-brain in action."
Rowena read and enjoyed Violet and the Velvets: Book 1 by Rachael King. The story took her back to her tween days, while modern diversity is seamlessly woven throughout.
'Affirming, joyous, and often hilarious...' - The Sapling
Kiki Van Newtown from The Sapling also interviewed Rachael King, to read the interview click www.thesapling.co.nz, Ruth King interview
Meet Violet Grumble: a music-loving, guitar-toting tween whose dream is to compete at BandChamps.
The problem is that none of her friends can play an instrument. Violet won't let that stop her!
But things get tougher when the band's gear starts to go missing - what's going on?
Can Violet solve the mystery and harness her ADHD powers? Can she help the Velvets overcome stage fright AND beat The Alphas at the final showdown?
After all, you only need three chords to play a song... how hard can it be?
Rachael King
Age: From 8 years
Paperback, 208 pages, H: 198mm W: 128mm
Weight: 190 grams