EDITORIAL REVIEW:
“An original and fun read from start to finish, Loon Cove Summer is an inherently compelling and skillfully crafted story that showcases author Donna Galanti's distinctive and narrative driven storytelling style. With its unexpected plot twists and deftly crafted characters, this thoroughly 'kid friendly' action/adventure novel is especially and unreservedly recommended.”
– Midwest Book Review
AUTHOR ENDORSEMENTS:
“A warm-hearted novel, Loon Cove Summer shows how being open to new possibilities and connections can be a powerful remedy for grief. Readers will love the multi-generational cast of characters, all residents of the lakeside campground that 13-year-old Sarah's family struggles to keep afloat. Maine provides a rich setting for this charming novel that balances profound loss with humor and hope.” – Kate Allen, national bestselling author of The Line Tender
“This funny and heartfelt novel with a cast of witty eccentrics reminded me that sadness and hilarity can walk hand-in-hand. As sparkling, refreshing, and mysterious as a Maine lake in summertime.” – Cathy Carr, author of 365 Days to Alaska
“Loon Cove Summer is a page-turning read set in the wilds of Maine offering an intimate look into a thirteen-year-old girl as she navigates the loss of her mother and her father’s subsequent depression.” – Paul Greci, author of Surviving Bear Island
“In this unique and memorable setting, Galanti’s lyrical prose and skillful balancing of humor and grief, will make you feel like you’ve just spent a summer at sleepaway camp with close friends. The cast of unforgettable characters and tender relationships stays with you, making Loon Cove Summer the perfect beach—or campground—read for any young person searching for meaning and adventure in their own world of firsts.” – Jessica Rinker, author of The Dare Sisters
READER REVIEWS:
“This book. This book. This beautiful, heartbreaking book. It's not just a story about summertime ... although it is that as well. It's not just a story about conservation and saving the beloved loons ... although a big part of it is. We see how one voice CAN make a difference, and inaction is the only true enemy of positive change ... but again, not the whole story. It's not just a story about growing up, experiencing all the firsts, and changes that life can bring...although it is this as well. It's about going about your day and carrying on, even when you have a broken heart. When I say that I felt for Sarah, I mean I really FELT for Sarah. The lessons shared help guide us. The love and the laughter, the smiles and the tears, they all build us up as much as they can make us fall ... but feeling those emotions, and remembering those times are precious just the same. A great read for Middle Grade fans of all ages with many a life lesson to share. The author does a wonderful job of getting the emotions into the story, while taking us on a summer trip we won't soon forget.” – Gina, Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers blog
“Loon Cove Summer was a heartfelt story full of bold loveable characters. I would recommend Loon Cove Summer to anyone who wants a story about perseverance and birds! As an avid loon lover, I enjoyed all of the fun facts about the species and how they survive even the hardest times. The balance that Galanti provided between scientific facts and heartfelt story was a beautiful and enjoyable blend. I can't wait for this one to be published!” – Katelyn W., Educator, NetGalley
“Following a summer of triumphs and tribulations Sarah navigates love, loss, change and first crushes with an array of loveable characters. This book was a breath of fresh air with a focus on nature loving teens in a world that is so heavily focused on technology. With personal nostalgic feelings of camping as a child and listening to the call of the loons, this was a perfect summer middle grade read!”– Jen R, Librarian, NetGalley
“What a wonderful story! Feisty, funny thirteen-year-old Sarah Richardson is our guide into a heartwarming summer of adventure, new love, and the challenge of protecting endangered loons. The Maine campsite where she lives with her father and uncle is rich with animals and nature and colorful characters, all who help Sarah navigate the pain of having recently lost her mother. Lyrical and precisely observed, Loon Cove Summer is truly a book of wonder. I found myself tearing up, and a few moments later, laughing. Donna Galanti writes with emotional honesty and imaginative vision—the kind that helps us see the world with new eyes and that reminds us of how miraculous it is to be thirteen and on the verge of… absolutely everything.” – Ruth Setton, Barnes & Noble
“Donna Galanti has written a wonderful novel with delightful lines of dialogue and descriptions of a beautiful landscape of Maine. Her dedication to protecting endangered birds, wildlife, and endangered trees shines brightly through this narrative.” – Melissa Blizzard, Goodreads
