The Lost Summer

October 1, 2009
Gr 9 Up-Helena, a 17-year-old rookie counselor at the Tennessee camp where she had been a camper for eight summers, learns that growing up and taking on responsibilities changes almost everything about the innocent fun of camp. One good change: Ransome, an older counselor at the neighboring boys' camp, is actually interested in her, and their flirtation grows more serious. Yet Helena experiences a change for the worse in the friendship department. Katie, her best friend, has a birthday too late to allow her to be a counselor this year, and the division in their status leads to a gulf between them. When older counselor Winn lets Helena into the inner circle of counselors, it's a dream; but when Winn begins treating Helena like a pariah after she and Ransome begin a physical relationship, the freeze-out by yet another camp friend is a nightmare. A terrible accident ensues, and all of Helena's hopes for the best summer ever are lost. This coming-of-age novel might deserve a spot in some summer-camp care packages, but Helena comes across as a bit whiny and weak at times. Those looking for outdoorsy girl-drama can find some here, though the ending is a bit abrupt."Suzanne Gordon, Peachtree Ridge High School, Suwanee, GA"

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