Review Detail

The Lightning Circle is a book I was drawn to for its unique concept and presentation. It is both a novel in verse and a poetry collection, presented as Nora's camp journal, and I found myself enjoying this fresh perspective in a young adult novel.

This is a quick and delightful read for lovers of poetry, art, and summer camp alike. I have read very few novels set at a summer camp, and I was not disappointed with this one. The lyrical writing paired with exceptional illustrations from the talented Laura K. Watson immerses you in the setting.

I loved all of the girls and women in this book. Their different personalities and backgrounds made each character unique and distinctive, and it was clear that there was some influence from the author's own camp experience. Nora is a strong and encouraging female character, and watching her heal from her first heartbreak and grow both as a camp counselor and a person was heartwarming.

I was confused at the beginning of the book about what happened to Nora that led her to escape her hometown by fleeing to work at an all-girls summer camp, but it did help to build suspense, and it kept me interested and excited to turn the pages.

This tender and personal coming-of-age novel beautifully portrays the devastation of first heartbreak and the importance of forging long-lasting female friendships. I enjoyed every moment of watching Nora's story unfold, and this is a book I will be recommending to all of the young women in my life.