One-line Summary:

“It’s Not Summer Without You” is a heartwarming young adult novel that explores themes of friendship, loss, and the complexities of love during a summer at the beach.

A Summer Reunion

“It’s Not Summer Without You” by Jenny Han is the second book in the “Summer” series, following the lives of three childhood friends, Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah. The story picks up a year after the events of the first book, “The Summer I Turned Pretty.” Belly, now sixteen, is excited to spend another summer at Cousins Beach, where she has spent countless summers with the Fisher family. However, this summer is different. Conrad, the brooding and complicated older brother, is still grieving the loss of his mother, and Belly is determined to help him heal.

Navigating Love and Loss

As the summer unfolds, Belly finds herself caught in a complicated love triangle. She has always had a crush on Conrad, but she also has feelings for Jeremiah, who has been her best friend for as long as she can remember. While Conrad continues to push her away, Jeremiah is there to support and comfort her. Belly must navigate her own emotions and the complexities of her relationships with both boys, all while dealing with her own grief over the loss of her mother.

Throughout the book, Han skillfully explores the themes of love and loss. She delves into the different ways people cope with grief and how it can affect their relationships. Conrad’s grief over his mother’s death has caused him to distance himself from those who care about him, including Belly. Jeremiah, on the other hand, is more open about his emotions and is always there for Belly when she needs him. The contrast between the two brothers highlights the different ways people handle loss and the impact it can have on their relationships.

The Power of Friendship

While the romantic relationships take center stage in the story, the power of friendship is also a significant theme in “It’s Not Summer Without You.” Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah have been friends since childhood, and their bond is tested throughout the summer. Belly’s loyalty is torn between the two brothers, and she must navigate the complexities of her feelings while also trying to preserve their friendship. Han beautifully captures the ups and downs of friendship, showcasing the strength and resilience that can come from long-lasting relationships.

Key Takeaways:

• Grief can affect people in different ways and impact their relationships.
• The complexities of love and friendship can create challenging situations.
• Support and understanding are crucial in navigating loss and difficult emotions.

Memorable Quote:

“Sometimes people leave without a goodbye. Sometimes goodbye is a long, painful goodbye.” – Jenny Han

In “It’s Not Summer Without You,” Jenny Han expertly weaves a story of love, loss, and friendship against the backdrop of a summer at the beach. Through the eyes of Belly, readers experience the complexities of navigating relationships and the impact of grief on individuals and their connections with others. Han’s writing captures the emotions and challenges of adolescence, making the story relatable to young adult readers. The book serves as a reminder of the power of friendship and the importance of supporting one another through difficult times.