The Hits and Misses of Melody Moss
By Helen Dallimore
Reviewed by Jenny Ruge
Helen Dallimore is an actress, singer, director and writer. She has written for TV, mostly comedies, but The Hits and Misses of Melody Moss is her first foray into writing fiction for children. It has been included in the 2026 CBCA Notables list for Younger Readers.
Twelve-year old Melody Moss is obsessed with musicals. On the eve of beginning high school, she starts a diary that documents the hilarious trials and tribulations she encounters over the first term of Year 7. Her former best friend, Abby, has decided that musicals are ‘not cool’ and ditched Melody for new friends, the Clones. When the music teacher announces a competition to write a musical, Melody enlists the help of new musically-gifted friend Victor, and together they come up with the winning idea: singing octopuses (octopi?) in love. With Abby and Tyler (handsome, but totally inept as a singer and actor) cast in the lead roles, Melody experiences her very first boy crush. A disastrous attempt at baby-sitting, as well as her tendency to speak before considering the consequences (she’s allergic to paper?), throw Melody into several tricky situations. And when shy Victor feels betrayed and pulls out of the musical, Melody finds herself out of her depth.
The characters in this novel are well-drawn and believable. Melody’s insecurities are instantly recognisable to anyone who’s worried about starting high school. Over time, Melody comes to recognise the contrast between Victor, who is loyal and supportive, and Abby, whose friendship hinges more on self-interest and ‘being cool’. It’s a relatable novel about friendship, honouring creativity and finding your tribe.
The light-hearted diary format of the novel makes it a much easier read than its 297 pages would suggest. The inclusion of various lists and asides, often depicted as torn slips of paper taped into the diary, as well as small illustrations and multiple changes of font, keep the writing fresh and dynamic. Melody’s use of language is mostly typical of a twelve-year-old, only occasionally missing the mark. But overall, middle grade readers will easily see themselves reflected in the pages of this book.
The novel is the first in a series. The sequel, The Secrets and Scandals of Melody Moss, will continue to follow Melody as she grapples with turning thirteen and growing up.
Recommended for readers aged 9+.
Penguin 2025
Helen Dallimore
