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Second Chance Summer

3.69
on Goodreads (147)

What’s inside...

Sandwiched between two exceptional siblings, Taylor Edwards never felt like she stood out—except for her history of running away when things get too complicated. Then her dad receives unexpected, terrible news, and the family makes the last-minute decision to spend the summer together in the cramped quarters at their old lake house. Taylor hasn't been to the summerhouse since she was twelve, and she definitely never planned on going back. Up at the lake she is confronted with people she thought she had left behind, like her former best friend Lucy, and Henry Crosby, her first crush, who's all grown up...and a lot cuter. Suddenly Taylor is surrounded by memories she'd rather leave in the past—but she can't run away this time. As the days lying on the beach pass into nights gazing at the stars, Taylor realizes she has a second chance—with friends, with family, maybe even with love. But she knows that once the summer ends, there is no way to recapture what she stands to lose. From Morgan Matson, the PW Flying Start author of Amy & Roger’s Epic Detour, this is a remarkable new novel about hope in the face of heartbreaking grief. When twelve-year-old former best friends Maddie and Chloe arrive at camp and discover they are cabin mates, they must decide if they want to continue staying mad at each other or give their friendship another go.
Age

8-12

Length

240 pages

Text complexity

Character compass

Taylor Edwards
Gelsey Edwards
Warren Edwards
Lucy Marino
Henry Crosby
Mrs. Edwards
Mr. Edwards

Discussion points

How do you think Taylor felt when she had to face her past at the lake house, and how would you feel in her place?
What do you think are the most important lessons Taylor learns over the summer?
Why do you think forgiveness and reconciliation are key themes in this story?
How do the relationships Taylor has with her family and friends change throughout the book, and what do you think caused those changes?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their own experiences to Taylor’s, creating a personal connection with the story. Discuss the complexities of friendships and family dynamics, highlighting how understanding and communication play crucial roles. Use the book’s setting and events to talk about handling challenging situations and the importance of second chances in life. Lastly, focus on the emotional growth of characters to teach empathy and resilience.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: Value of Family Bonds
Explanation: In 'Second Chance Summer', the protagonist's family reconnects and strengthens their relationships during a summer together, emphasizing the importance of family support and togetherness.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to cherish and prioritize time spent with family, understanding that strong family bonds are a crucial support system in life.
Example Lesson: Dealing with Loss
Explanation: The story deals with the protagonist facing the impending loss of a loved one, portraying the various stages of grief and the healing process.
Real-World Application: This helps children understand and cope with loss in their lives, providing them with the insight that grief is a natural process and discussing emotions is healthy and necessary.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face Fears
Explanation: The main character overcomes personal fears to make the most of her summer, learning to step out of her comfort zone.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to face their own fears and embrace new experiences, helping them grow and develop resilience.
Example Lesson: Importance of Forgiveness
Explanation: Characters in the book learn to forgive each other for past mistakes, highlighting how forgiveness can mend relationships and foster understanding.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of forgiveness, encouraging them to resolve conflicts and maintain healthy relationships with peers and family members.
Example Lesson: Appreciating the Present
Explanation: The book illustrates the importance of living in the moment and appreciating the time we have with loved ones.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to value the present and find joy in the everyday, fostering a positive attitude and mindfulness.

Second Chance Summer by Morgan Matson, Sarah Kapit