| Language | From $0.00 |
| Release Date | April 27, 2010 |
| Genre | Romance |
| Author | Jenny Han |
| File Size | Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers |
| Rating | (4.16) |
It’s Not Summer Without You picks up a year after the events of the first book, The Summer I Turned Pretty. Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah are now dealing with the aftermath of Susannah’s death, the boys' mother and Belly’s surrogate mother. The once inseparable trio finds themselves drifting apart as they struggle to cope with their grief. When Conrad suddenly disappears, Belly and Jeremiah set out on a mission to find him, reigniting old feelings and forcing them to confront their changing relationships.
This young adult contemporary novel delves into themes of love, friendship, and coming of age. It’s Not Summer Without You primarily appeals to teenagers and young adults who enjoy romantic, character-driven stories set against the backdrop of an idyllic beach town.
Belly Conklin is a 16-year-old girl with a romantic and sentimental personality. She’s been in love with her best friend Susannah’s eldest son, Conrad, for as long as she can remember. Belly is a relatable protagonist whose experiences with love, loss, and self-discovery resonate with readers.
Conrad Fisher is the moody, mysterious older brother who has always been the center of Belly’s affections. As he struggles with his mother’s death and the pressures of his father’s expectations, Conrad becomes increasingly distant from Belly and his family.
Jeremiah Fisher, Conrad’s younger brother, is the more easygoing and friendly sibling. He has always been there for Belly, offering his support and friendship. Jeremiah also secretly harbors feelings for Belly, which complicates their relationship as the story progresses.
Susannah Fisher, the deceased matriarch of the Fisher family, continues to have a significant impact on the characters' lives. Laurel, Belly’s mother, plays a more prominent role in this book as she navigates her own grief and supports her daughter. The story also introduces Cam, Belly’s new love interest, who serves as a catalyst for the love triangle between Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah.
The central plot of It’s Not Summer Without You revolves around the love triangle between Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah. As Belly and Jeremiah search for Conrad, their feelings for each other intensify, testing the boundaries of friendship and loyalty. This love triangle adds tension and intrigue to the story, as readers are kept guessing as to how these relationships will ultimately unfold.
It’s Not Summer Without You tackles themes of coming of age and the growing pains associated with it. As Belly and the Fisher brothers deal with the loss of Susannah, they are forced to confront their own emotional growth and the changes in their relationships. The novel explores the complexities of growing up, learning to let go of the past, and embracing the uncertainties of the future.
At its core, the story is about the complexities of family dynamics and how the characters navigate their grief and changing relationships. The novel delves into the strained relationship between Conrad and his father, as well as Belly’s evolving relationship with her own mother. It also highlights the importance of the chosen family, as Belly and the Fisher brothers lean on each other for support during their time of loss.
Jenny Han’s writing style is both engaging and accessible, making it easy for readers to connect with the characters and their emotions. Her vivid descriptions of the beach setting and the characters' inner thoughts create a nostalgic, immersive reading experience. Han’s ability to evoke the bittersweet nature of growing up is what makes this novel stand out among other young adult contemporary novels.
The pacing of It’s Not Summer Without You is well-balanced, allowing readers to fully invest in the characters and their emotional journeys. The story unfolds at a pace that keeps readers engaged without feeling rushed or drawn out. The alternating viewpoints between Belly and Jeremiah add depth to the narrative, providing insight into their individual perspectives and experiences.
It’s Not Summer Without You is a captivating and emotional read that will resonate with fans of young adult contemporary novels. Its relatable characters, engaging plot, and heartfelt themes make it a standout addition to the Summer I Turned Pretty trilogy. With its immersive writing and well-paced storytelling, this book is a must-read for fans of Jenny Han and those who enjoy tales of love, friendship, and the bittersweet journey of growing up.
