Recommended Age: 16 - 19
Dear Reader, this book contains material related to eating disorders and racism that some readers may find distressing. The author explores these themes in sensitive and survivor-centered ways, but the content of this work may nevertheless be emotionally challenging, so self-care is advised.
Like everyone finishing up high school, Adrian Carter is facing a difficult decision about what comes next, with pressure from all sides; his dad thinks he should go to business school, his girlfriend wants him to join her band’s cross-country tour, and his favourite teacher insists his achievement of the Citadel Phoenix Scholarship entails a responsibility to represent his community through university education. Adrian knows in his heart what he really wants, but it isn’t so easy to go for it when he’s risking disappointing everyone he loves in the process.
The Summer Between Us is a beautifully written coming-of-age story that sensitively tackles topics like racism, familial strife, and eating disorders, while providing a cast of individuals who are both authentic and inspiring. Character-driven and profound, this book features emotionally intelligent BIPOC protagonists who are certain to inspire readers of all ages, not just the teens aged 16-19 for whom it was written.
Check out our other reviews of The Summer Between Us here and here.