Modern youth is wont to complain that it is misunderstood; this author at least shows a deep understanding of the outlook, motives and values of contemporary adolescents, together with a rare sympathy and compassion. [Beat of the City] introduces the reader to a number of young people of wide diversity of character and circumstance whose lives touch each other, and tells of the effects this has on them. Adults play their part, too, and are just as vividly and sympathetically portrayed. Not the least dominant is the city [of Melbourne] itself, which virtually projects an identity of its own. The book has a sincere and genuine realism which will hold the attention and command the admiration of all teenage readers….