Summer and July
on Goodreads (471)
What’s inside...
From the critically acclaimed author of Train I Ride and Echo’s Sister comes a moving story of friendship between two girls looking for some happiness in a world that can be a little cruel. Twelve-year-old Juillet is preparing for the worst summer ever, staying in Ocean Park, California with her mother who will be working at the local hospital. Juillet is left to fend for herself, distanced from her father and her best friend, Fern. A chance meeting with Summer, a local surfer girl, sparks a new friendship that helps Juillet come out of her shell and confront her fears. As they grow closer, Summer reveals her own painful secret, and Juillet must step up to be the supportive friend Summer needs. Named one of Bank Street College of Education's Best Children’s Books of the Year, this story is perfect for fans of Rebecca Stead, Ali Standish, and Erin Entrada Kelly.
Age
8-12
Length
336 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Julliet
Summer
Julliet'S Mother
Discussion points
How do you think Juillet felt when she first arrived in Venice Beach? What would you do if you were in her shoes?
Summer and July start as strangers but grow close very quickly. What do you think helped them become friends? Have you ever made a friend in an unexpected way?
Both characters face personal fears in the story. Can you talk about a time when you overcame a fear and how it made you feel?
The book explores themes of acceptance and understanding. Why is it important to accept people for who they are?
How do the settings in the book, like the beach or the boardwalk, affect the story? Can you think of a place that has a special meaning to you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the characters' emotions and actions, relating them to their own experiences.
Discuss the significance of friendship and empathy, emphasizing how understanding differences can lead to strong bonds.
Highlight the role of settings in the story, and ask your child to describe a place where they feel happy or safe.
After discussing each question, encourage your child to summarize what they've learned from the story about dealing with challenges and embracing diversity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Acceptance and Diversity
Explanation: The story illustrates acceptance through the friendship between Juillet, a confident new girl in town, and Summer, a shy local. Despite their differences, they form a strong bond.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to embrace diversity and be open to friendships with peers who may seem different from them.
Example Lesson: Dealing with Loss
Explanation: Summer grapples with the recent loss of her mother, which is a central theme. The book handles this sensitive topic with grace, showing how Summer processes grief.
Real-World Application: Children can learn coping strategies for loss or change, such as expressing emotions and seeking support from friends.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face Fears
Explanation: The book portrays Summer overcoming her fear of the ocean, showing the importance of facing fears with the support of friends.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to tackle their own fears and understand that it’s okay to seek help when they feel scared.
Example Lesson: Importance of Self-Expression
Explanation: Juillet expresses herself through fashion and skateboarding, encouraging Summer to discover her own forms of self-expression.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore different ways of expressing themselves, whether through art, sports, or other hobbies.