That Summer

Reader reviewed by Randi

Can you imagine being only 15 and over 6 feet tall? Well thats what the main character of this book struggles through and her dad remarring another woman who he left her mom for. Its really hard for her so when her sister's ex boyfriend shows up, who was there and reminds her of the good old times, she can't help but keep herself away. You'll be shockd to find out he and her sister broke up in the first place!

Reader reviewed by Cowgirl

"That Summer" by Sarah Dessen, is about a girl who is about to face a lot of changes.  Her sister is getting married to a boring guy, Lewis, she meets up with her Sisters old boyfriend, she develops a new sense of courage, and she learns some life lessons. 

I enjoyed reading "That Summer" and was the first book by Sarah Dessen that I've read!  I will definatley be reading more!

Reader reviewed by Stephanie

In her fifteenth summer, Haven is nearing six feet tall and feeling every bit as awkward as a fish out of water. That summer is particularly tumultuous for her: in addition to her embarrassingly rapid growth spurt, she also has to suffer through two marriages, her fathers remarriage and her sister Ashleys.

Its hard for Haven to see her father moving into a new life with his new bride, leaving her and her mother behind. Meanwhile, Haven thinks that Ashley is being too selfish with her impending marriage. But it is not only that. Ashley has always been pushing Haven away her whole life and acting like a pain. Wistfully Haven remembers the summer Ashley went out with Sumner Lee. He made Ashley loosen up and allowed Haven to get close to her sister.

All of a sudden, Sumners back being his usual comfortable, friendly self, taking Haven along for the ride. Hes just what she needs this summer, when she feels disconnected from everyone else. In a way, shes also secretly hoping that Sumner will help bring her and Ashley closer together, just like he did all those years ago.

But sometimes things arent always how Haven wants them to be. This summer, shell learn that people will let her down, but she can grow into her body, soul and all. It only takes one summer.

Sarah Dessen is a consistently impressive author, and her debut will not let anyone down. It has heart and realism, two things that many YA books nowadays are sorely lacking. Dont miss this rich story.

Reader reviewed by Garden0fdreams

Overall, the book was interesting and catchy, like all Sarah Dessen books, but the romantic side of the novel didn't really catch my attention much and was a bit bland.