Title: Muted

Author: Tami Charles

Genre: YA Contemporary, poetry, realistic fiction

Summary:

“Muted” by Tami Charles is a poignant and gripping YA contemporary novel written in verse, portraying the harsh realities of the music industry. The story follows Denver, a seventeen-year-old aspiring artist who, along with her friends Dali and Shak, gets entangled in the glamorous yet dangerous world of a famous R&B star, Sean “Mercury” Ellis. As the dream of stardom turns into a harrowing nightmare, Denver faces a critical choice between her big break and her own well-being.

Review:

Tami Charles’s “Muted” is a bold and raw exploration of the music industry’s dark underbelly, inspired by real events like the R. Kelly case. The narrative effectively captures the allure and perils of fame, especially for young, vulnerable talents seeking an escape from their limited surroundings. The verse form of the novel enhances the story’s emotional intensity, reflecting the rhythm and turmoil of the music world.

The journey of the three girls, Denver, Dali, and Shak, is a testament to the seductive power of fame and the daunting challenges it poses. The book made me think about how poverty and difficult circumstances can push individuals into precarious situations. This resonates deeply with the book’s theme. It highlights the vulnerability of aspiring artists and the exploitation they may face.

With her ability to see through Merc’s facade due to her other life options, like basketball and choir, Shak’s character provides a crucial contrast. It underscores the importance of having diverse opportunities and support systems for young people, shielding them from exploitative situations.

While I applaud the representation in the book, unfortunately, the Dominican culture through language usage in the book felt inauthentic at times. Cultural representation is vital in literature, and when it misses the mark, it can momentarily disconnect readers familiar with the culture. This aspect, although minor, is significant in ensuring genuine representation.

Denver’s sudden recollection in the third act also gave me a pause. As someone who is traumatized and under duress, to be able to remember a date easily was hard for me to believe. Smoothing this scene would have added an important layer of realism that could have enhanced the narrative. Such depth in portraying psychological and physical states can provide the reader with a more authentic and relatable experience.

Overall, “Muted” is a powerful, engaging, and important read. Its portrayal of the complex dynamics of the music industry, along with the emotional and ethical dilemmas faced by young artists, makes it a compelling and thought-provoking novel. Despite the minor lapses in cultural representation and a slightly unrealistic plot moment, the book’s strength lies in its storytelling and relevance to young readers and their guardians.

Conclusion:

“Muted” is not just a tale of aspiration and exploitation; it’s a cautionary story that resonates with real-world implications, making it an essential read for young adults and those who care for them. It offers a valuable perspective on the challenges and choices young people face in the pursuit of their dreams. If you read and enjoyed “On The Come Up” by Angie Thomas, which also delves into the complexities of young talent navigating the music industry, or “The Poet X” by Elizabeth Acevedo, another powerful novel in verse that explores themes of identity and self-expression, give this book a try.

Rating: 4/5