
Reach for this book when your teen is grappling with a major fork in the road or wondering how their life might change based on a single decision. It is an ideal pick for readers navigating the complexities of an estranged relationship with a parent or those feeling the push and pull of growing up. The story follows Summer, whose summer breaks into two parallel realities based on whether she answers a phone call. In one, she explores France and connects with her distant father: in the other, she remains home to face her local life and first love. Friedman handles themes of identity and family secrets with a sophisticated but accessible touch. It is a grounding read for ages 12 and up that validates the anxiety of choice while showing that every path offers growth. Parents will appreciate the thoughtful exploration of how we define ourselves through our relationships and the secrets our parents keep.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewSweet, age-appropriate romance with some kissing.
Themes of parental abandonment and family secrets.
The book deals with parental estrangement, divorce, and hidden family secrets (a half-brother). The approach is direct and realistic. There is no religious overtone, keeping it secular and contemporary. The resolution is realistic and hopeful, emphasizing that neither path is perfect, but both are meaningful.
A 14-year-old girl who enjoys 'Sliding Doors' style narratives and is beginning to see her parents as flawed, real people rather than just authority figures. It is perfect for the teen who feels like they are at a crossroads.
The book can be read cold. Parents may want to be ready to discuss the concept of 'omission' versus 'lying' regarding the family secrets revealed. A parent might notice their child obsessing over a 'big decision' (like choosing a high school or a summer camp) or expressing frustration over a distant relative.
Younger teens (12-13) will likely focus on the romantic 'what if' and the travel elements. Older teens (15-17) will better appreciate the nuances of the parallel timeline structure and the deeper themes of identity and parental fallibility.
Its unique 'split-narrative' structure allows the reader to see the butterfly effect in action, which is a rare and engaging format for the YA contemporary genre.
The novel uses a dual-timeline structure to follow Summer Everett. At the airport, she has to decide whether to answer a call from her father. The narrative then splits: 'France' Summer goes to Provence to live with her artist father, uncovering his past and a secret family, while 'Home' Summer stays in New York, getting closer to her crush, Pan, and dealing with her mother's secrets. Both paths eventually lead to a shared emotional realization about self-reliance and the nature of family.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.