That+Summer

For my first summer reading book I chose "That Summer" by Sarah Dessen as well. This book is about the summer when everything changed for Haven and her family. The events that Haven had to indure include two weddings. The first holly union is between her father and the women who ripped Haven's family apart and Haven is afraid that the second marraige from Lewis to her sister, Ashley, may do even more damage to her already fragile mother and herself. To add to the summer wedding madness, Haven growing taller than most of the Lakeview Models which not only making her feel socially awkward but is also a big problem when it is time to fit the bridesmade dresses. Just when Haven thinks she might not survive the summer of ordeals, Ashley's old boyfriend Sumner Lee, and Haven's personal favorite of all of the highschool boys that came running when they saw Ashley, shows up and brings back memories of the summer when everything seemed perfect in Haven's family. Haven soon begins to wonder and question what happend to the old Ashley. What really went on between her and Sumner? What will happen to Haven and her mother once Ashely moves out? Will Havens new stepmom be a blessing or will she still be the women who ripped her family to shreds? Read the book to find out. To be quiet honest, I really did not enjoy "That Summer." To me, it never really became much of a romance book since the romantic part is only when the brides and grooms said their I Dos. Though I did find the book intresting, "That Summer" would have to be one of the worst books I have ever read, not because it wasn't written well or a hard book to get through, I do not think that the storyline has enough to offer to make it an entertaining book. Overall, on a scale of 1-10 I would give it a 5 because though it had no story, I personally think that it might be a good book if you could relate to divorce or if you are looking for something to get you through a hard time. - Mary Sturgis

"That Summer" by Sarah Dessen, is about a girl named Haven who is going through a very hard time. Her father is getting remarried, her sister Ashley is getting married to a man Haven feels is not right for her, and her Mother is extremely lonely. To top it all off, Haven is 6 feet tall and still growing. Haven feels that there is no place in the world for her to fit in now that her life has changed. During the book Haven remembers one of the happier times, when her parents were still together and the family was a whole. Her sister even had what Haven thought was "the one." His name was Sumner Lee. Haven runs into Sumner while she is working. Haven asks Sumner what happened to their relationship. He told her that he doesn't deserve Ashley and he made a horrible mistake. Haven later asks her sister and learns information that never would have crossed her mind. Maybe her sister's new man is perfect for her, or is there a second chance for Sumner? What will Haven do? Her world is spinning to fast for her to take control. Will time slow it down or does Haven have absolutely no hope? Will Haven learn it is never to late to start a new beginning? Read the book to find out what happens. I really enjoyed this book because it showed me that it is never to late to start a new beginning. I feel that Sarah Dessen did a great job relating the book to real life instances. She did not make the book unrealistic. The only thing bad I would say about the book is that it was not a book that I had trouble putting down. However I did not set it aside when I wanted to read. I would give the book an 8 1/2 out of 10. I recommend "That Summer" to anyone who likes books about young girls trying to figure out their place in life. -Grace Flickinger

Response That Summer looks like a good book. When many things are happening at a time, it makes the book interesting. I like realistic books more than I like fantasy. I will now consider reading it! Rachel Mabie

Response This book sounds very interesting. I think you did a very good job of explaining the book without giving away to much. Why did you have no trouble putting the book down was it at all boring at times? Alanna Reply- Thats a very good question. Many times in the book there were "scenes" that were boring and i really didn't feel like reading. For instance some parts in the book she talks about her job at a shoe store, and I find those parts very boring at times. Grace Flickinger

Response I read this book and I enjoyed it. I've read all the books Sarah Dessen has wrote, and although this isn't my favorite by her, I definitely don't dislike it. If you enjoyed this book, you might be interested in other books by this author, including //This Lullaby//, //The Truth About Forever//, and //Just Listen//. Those are my three favorites by her, my top being //Just Listen//. I also liked the way you described this book and the plot. It was easy to understand and if I hadn't already read this book, I definitely would've read it after reading this review. --Tess

Response This books sounds really good but sad. I would try to read it but I sometimes have trouble with depressing books! But I am totally going try! (by the way i like both of your reviews guys!)

Emma Colman