Book Reviews

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Judy Blume Returns with Summer Sisters

By Jennifer Abrams

Judy Blume once took us through the trials and tribulations of childhood and adolescence. Now, in her new book, "Summer Sisters," she shares with us a touching story of an eighteen-year friendship and its lasting effects. Although "Summer Sisters" is Judy Blume's first adult novel in almost fifteen years, it does not disappoint. Whether you are a Judy Blume fan from way back when, or you just hunger for a moving story loaded with well-developed characters, this book is for you.

"Summer Sisters" is the story of Vix and Caitlin, two young girls with very different backgrounds and personalities, who enter into a lasting friendship. The story follows a cast of diverse characters through `first loves,' college, marriage, and motherhood. The friendship blossoms during magical summers spent on Martha's Vineyard with Caitlin's family. Enduring relationships develop not only between the two girls, but also with a whole host of other characters.

Judy Blume has a wonderful ability to create characters that you can see yourself in. Vix is dependable and quiet, while Caitlin is wild, free-spirited, and unpredictable . Both envy one another - the story is laced with personality conflicts and bumps in the road of life--but it is envy that motivates and complicates the story.

Blume uses viewpoints of the different characters interspersed throughout the book to peel away the outer layers of the characters and expose their true nature. The use of different perspectives adds depth to each character and keeps the reader wondering about how each character feels.

Blume has created an exceptionally moving story, with characters that tend to stay with the reader long after the book has been put aside. "Summer Sisters" has the ability to make the reader laugh, cry, or do both at the same time. Although "Summer Sisters" is loaded with emotional peaks and valleys, the story moves at a fast pace, not getting bogged down in sappiness. Strong, engaging characters combine with an involving plot to create a book that is hard to put down.

Judy Blume has one again proven herself as a writer who can touch the hearts of adults, as well as children. Her characters are realistic and memorable; her story touching. "Summer Sisters" is an easy and thoroughly enjoyable read. Don't let summer end without reading "Summer Sisters."

 

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