Book Review of Summer of ’79: A Summer of ’69 Story
A Nostalgic Return: My Thoughts on Summer of ’79: A Summer of ’69 Story
There’s something uniquely comforting about revisiting well-loved characters, don’t you think? It’s like wrapping up in a soft, familiar blanket on a chilly day. That’s precisely how I felt picking up Elin Hilderbrand’s Summer of ’79: A Summer of ’69 Story, a delightful novella that revisits the Foley/Levin gang ten years after the events of Summer of ’69. As a long-time fan of Hilderbrand’s work, I was eager to see how life had unfolded for Kate and her crew, especially amid the poignant backdrop of grief and family tensions following the death of Kate’s mother, Exalta.
Set against the stunningly evocative Nantucket landscape, this slim e-book had me hooked from the very first lines. Hilderbrand wastes no time in establishing the weight of loss—"Exalta is dead. She died in her sleep two days earlier…" This stark admission sets the stage for an emotional journey as Kate grapples with her new role as matriarch, a position that carries both burdens and joys.
What I absolutely adored about this novella is Hilderbrand’s mastery in character development. Switching POV among Kate and her four children—Blair, Kirby, Tiger, and the spirited Jessie—provides a tapestry of perspectives that keeps the narrative lively and dynamic. Jessie, my personal favorite from Summer of ’69, has blossomed into a young woman feeling adrift within her family. Her journey resonates deeply: "She feels like a stranger in her own family, but there’s nothing new about that." This quote perfectly encapsulates the teenage struggles of identity and belonging, making Jessie’s voice not just relatable but captivating.
The pacing felt just right for a novella; each chapter flowed seamlessly into the next, allowing me to devour it in one sitting. Hilderbrand’s prose is, as always, rich and evocative. The world she builds around her characters feels palpable, from the salty tang of the ocean air to the warmth of shared family moments, even amidst the undercurrents of sadness.
Surprisingly, amidst the somber setting, there’s a playful energy that comes alive, allowing moments of laughter and connection. Hilderbrand beautifully balances the gravity of loss with the exuberance of family ties and shared experiences, which reminds us that life, even in its darkest times, often facilitates laughter and love.
If you enjoyed Summer of ’69, then Summer of ’79 is an absolute must-read. It’s not just a reunion; it’s a heartfelt exploration of resilience, familial bonds, and the complexities of grief. I find myself wishing for more novellas like this for my favorite series—there’s something undeniably satisfying about checking in with beloved characters after a passage of time.
In conclusion, whether you’re a die-hard Hilderbrand fan or new to her tales, this novella is sure to resonate with anyone who cherishes a good story about family and the intricacies of life. Personally, it’s a poignant reminder of the bonds that tie us together and the courage required to carry our loved ones’ legacies forward. I would give this novella a solid 4 stars for its charm, emotional depth, and, of course, the delightful return to Nantucket.
Happy reading!
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