One-line summary:

That Summer is a captivating coming-of-age novel that explores the complexities of family, friendship, and first love through the eyes of a teenage girl.

Discovering the Power of Secrets

That Summer follows the story of fifteen-year-old Haven, who spends her summer in her small hometown in Virginia. Haven’s life is filled with secrets, both her own and those of her family and friends. As she navigates the ups and downs of adolescence, Haven begins to unravel the power of these secrets and their impact on her relationships.

Haven’s family is going through a difficult time as her parents’ marriage is falling apart. Her father has moved out, leaving her mother, sister, and herself to cope with the aftermath. Haven’s mother is consumed by her own pain and struggles to be present for her daughters. Meanwhile, Haven’s older sister, Ashley, is planning her wedding, which adds another layer of tension to the already fragile family dynamic.

Amidst the chaos, Haven finds solace in her friendship with Sumner, a boy from her neighborhood. Sumner is an enigmatic character who shares Haven’s love for writing and adventure. Together, they embark on a journey of self-discovery, exploring the hidden corners of their town and their own emotions. Through their friendship, Haven learns the importance of trust, vulnerability, and the power of connection.

Unveiling the Complexity of First Love

As Haven navigates the complexities of her family life, she also grapples with her own feelings of first love. When Sumner’s older brother, Sumner Lee, returns home for the summer, Haven finds herself drawn to him. Sumner Lee is charming, mysterious, and carries his own secrets. Haven’s infatuation with him becomes a catalyst for her own self-discovery and understanding of love.

However, Haven soon realizes that love is not always straightforward. She discovers that love can be messy, complicated, and sometimes painful. Through her experiences with Sumner Lee, Haven learns about the importance of setting boundaries, understanding her own worth, and recognizing the difference between infatuation and genuine connection.

The Power of Self-Reflection and Growth

Throughout That Summer, Haven undergoes a transformative journey of self-reflection and growth. She learns to confront her own fears, insecurities, and the impact of her family’s secrets on her own well-being. Haven’s coming-of-age story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of self-discovery.

As Haven navigates the challenges of her summer, she discovers that secrets can be both destructive and liberating. She realizes that by embracing vulnerability and opening up to others, she can forge deeper connections and find her own voice. Haven’s journey serves as a reminder that growth often comes from embracing the messy, uncertain aspects of life and finding strength in the face of adversity.

• Family secrets can have a profound impact on relationships and personal growth.
• First love is complex and often involves self-discovery and understanding.
• Self-reflection and vulnerability are key to personal growth and forging deeper connections.

“Sometimes you have to feel the past to believe it.”

In That Summer, Sarah Dessen beautifully captures the essence of adolescence, exploring themes of family, friendship, and first love. Through Haven’s journey, readers are reminded of the power of secrets, the complexity of first love, and the importance of self-reflection and growth. Dessen’s storytelling is both heartfelt and relatable, making That Summer a must-read for anyone seeking a captivating coming-of-age tale.