One-line summary:

This One Summer is a coming-of-age graphic novel that explores the complexities of friendship, family, and growing up during a summer vacation.

A Summer of Exploration and Discovery

Set in the idyllic town of Awago Beach, This One Summer follows the story of Rose, a young girl on the cusp of adolescence, as she spends her summer vacation with her family at their lakeside cottage. Rose’s days are filled with swimming in the lake, collecting rocks, and exploring the town with her best friend, Windy. Together, they navigate the challenges of growing up, from dealing with family tensions to grappling with their own changing bodies and emotions.

As Rose and Windy spend their days at the beach, they become increasingly intrigued by a group of local teenagers who are dealing with their own issues, including unplanned pregnancies, relationship troubles, and the weight of past mistakes. Through their observations and interactions with the older teens, Rose and Windy begin to grapple with the complexities of adulthood and the harsh realities of the world beyond their childhood innocence.

Themes of Friendship and Coming-of-Age

At the heart of This One Summer is the exploration of friendship and the challenges that come with growing up. Rose and Windy’s bond is tested as they navigate their changing interests and experiences. They find solace in each other’s company, sharing secrets, fears, and dreams. The novel beautifully captures the bittersweet nature of friendships during adolescence, where the innocence of childhood is slowly replaced by the complexities of adulthood.

Through Rose’s perspective, the novel also delves into the struggles of coming-of-age. Rose grapples with her own identity, trying to understand her place in the world and the shifting dynamics of her family. She wrestles with her feelings of anger, confusion, and sadness, as she witnesses her parents’ strained relationship and confronts the harsh realities of the world around her.

Artistic and Emotional Depth

This One Summer is a graphic novel that combines stunning artwork with a poignant narrative. The illustrations, done by Jillian Tamaki, beautifully capture the essence of the story, from the serene beauty of the lake to the raw emotions on the characters’ faces. The use of muted colors and delicate lines adds to the overall atmosphere of the novel, evoking a sense of nostalgia and melancholy.

The emotional depth of the story is further enhanced by the skillful storytelling of Mariko Tamaki. The dialogue and internal monologues of the characters are authentic and relatable, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a deep level. The novel explores themes of loss, disappointment, and the complexities of human relationships, offering a nuanced portrayal of the challenges of growing up.

Key Takeaways:

• Friendship can be both a source of comfort and a source of conflict during adolescence.
• Coming-of-age is a complex and often challenging process that involves self-discovery and navigating the realities of the world.
• The transition from childhood to adulthood is marked by the loss of innocence and the need to confront difficult emotions and experiences.

“We don’t have to be afraid of everything turning into nothing.”

In conclusion, This One Summer is a beautifully illustrated and emotionally resonant graphic novel that explores the complexities of friendship, family, and coming-of-age. Through the eyes of Rose and Windy, readers are reminded of the bittersweet nature of growing up and the importance of navigating the challenges of life with the support of loved ones.