Ronnie’s mother is forcing her and brother, Jonah, to visit their dad after all these years. Ronnie’s anger at his absence has reached into her love of music. She hasn’t played the piano since he left, and doesn’t want him to play it while she’s visiting. He builds a plywood wall around the piano to make her happy. But he continues to play the piano when she isn’t around. Ronnie eventually discovers her father’s song, but will its effect pierce the emotional wall she’s built? Ronnie’s other rebellion is playing Goth-Girl and mixing with the wrong crowd as soon as she arrives, leading to more problems. When she and Jonah discover their father’s secret, one can’t help but wonder if further resentment is due, or if they’ll adopt a selfless attitude. Needless to say, their relationships are tested even further when Mom shows up, and Ronnie is dealt yet another disturbing blow. In the end, one can’t help but think that if grown-ups would just be honest, it would be psychologically healthier for all.

The Last Song is story of emotional judgment, family secrets, breaking barriers and forgiveness. Like past Sparks novels (my favorite being The Notebook) this one will tug at your heartstrings, if not make you outright cry. Narrators Pepper Binkley and Scott Sowers successfully bring Sparks’ poignant storyline and emotionally-flawed characters to life. It’s an insightful, noteworthy listen worth sharing with others. Pass it on.