One-line summary:
Keeping the Moon is a heartwarming coming-of-age novel that follows the journey of Colie, a teenager struggling with self-esteem, as she spends a transformative summer in a small beach town.
Discovering Self-Worth
Colie, a fifteen-year-old girl, has always been self-conscious about her weight and appearance. After her mother, a famous fitness guru, leaves for Europe, Colie is sent to spend the summer with her eccentric Aunt Mira in the small beach town of Colby. In this unfamiliar environment, Colie grapples with her insecurities and learns to embrace her true self.
Aunt Mira, a free-spirited artist, encourages Colie to express herself through art and fashion. Through their friendship, Colie begins to see her worth beyond her physical appearance. She meets Isabel, a confident and outspoken girl, who becomes her best friend and teaches her the importance of self-acceptance. As Colie grows closer to Isabel and Mira, she starts to shed her insecurities and discovers her own unique talents and strengths.
Unlikely Friendships and Empowerment
Colie’s journey towards self-acceptance is further enhanced by her interactions with other characters in Colby. She meets Morgan, a beautiful and popular girl who initially seems judgmental but later reveals her own vulnerabilities. Morgan’s friendship helps Colie realize that everyone has their own insecurities, and appearances can be deceiving.
Colie also befriends Norman, a quiet and kind-hearted boy who works at the local gym. Norman sees beyond Colie’s physical appearance and appreciates her for who she truly is. Their friendship blossoms into a sweet romance, reinforcing Colie’s newfound self-confidence and belief in her own worthiness of love and acceptance.
Embracing Individuality and Overcoming Prejudice
Keeping the Moon explores the themes of individuality and the harmful effects of prejudice. As Colie becomes more comfortable in her own skin, she challenges societal norms and expectations. She participates in the Last Chance Bar and Grill’s annual Miss Teen Queen of Colby contest, defying stereotypes and proving that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes.
Through her experiences in Colby, Colie learns to stand up for herself and others, breaking free from the shackles of judgment and prejudice. She becomes a source of inspiration for those around her, encouraging them to embrace their true selves and celebrate their individuality.
Key Takeaways:
- Self-acceptance and embracing one’s true self are essential for personal growth and happiness.
- Appearances can be deceiving, and everyone has their own insecurities.
- Friendships and relationships based on acceptance and understanding are transformative.
- Challenging societal norms and embracing individuality leads to empowerment.
“Maybe the truth is, there’s a little bit of loser in all of us. Being happy isn’t having everything in your life be perfect. Maybe it’s about stringing together all the little things.”
Keeping the Moon is a heartwarming story that explores the journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance. Through Colie’s experiences in the small beach town of Colby, readers are reminded of the importance of embracing one’s true self, challenging societal norms, and forming genuine connections with others. The novel serves as a reminder that beauty and worthiness come in all shapes and sizes, and that true happiness lies in the little moments that make up our lives.
