44 pages • 1 hour read
Last Days of Summer
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Book Brief
353
Novel • Fiction
Brooklyn, New York • 1940s
1998
Middle grade
14-18 years
900L
Super Short Summary
Last Days of Summer, an epistolary novel by Steve Kluger, follows Joey Margolis, a witty, resourceful Jewish boy in 1940s Brooklyn, navigating challenges after his parents' divorce. Joey forms an unexpected bond with Charlie Banks, a New York Giants third baseman, who becomes his mentor and father figure, helping him through life's trials and becoming part of Joey's family. Intimate letters, school reports, clippings, and baseball scorecards narrate Joey's journey of growth, love, and resilience. The book contains depictions of bullying based on religious identity.
Heartwarming
Nostalgic
Humorous
Bittersweet
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
5,787 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Last Days of Summer by Steve Kluger is a poignant and humorous epistolary novel praised for its engaging characters and clever storytelling. Reviewers appreciate the blend of historical context with personal growth, although some found the letter format occasionally disrupts the narrative flow. Overall, it offers a compelling reflection on friendship and resilience in difficult times.
Who Should Read Last Days of Summer?
Readers who enjoy Last Days of Summer by Steve Kluger are likely fans of poignant, humorous historical novels with strong character development. Ideal for enthusiasts of A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving and The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer, who seek heartfelt stories blending both comedy and pathos.
5,787 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
353
Novel • Fiction
Brooklyn, New York • 1940s
1998
Middle grade
14-18 years
900L
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