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353
Novel • Fiction
Brooklyn, New York • 1940s
1998
Middle grade
14-18 years
900L
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
5,787 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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.
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
Charlie Banks
A record-breaking third baseman for the New York Giants, originally from Wisconsin, who becomes an unlikely mentor and father figure to Joey after learning about his struggles with local bullies.
Hazel McKay
A talented torch singer who marries Charlie Banks and plays a supportive role in Joey's life by involving him in her musical performances.
Ida Margolis
Joey’s mother, portrayed as a witty and decent person, raising Joey alongside her sister after her husband leaves her.
Aunt Carrie Gettinger
Joey’s affectionate and devoted aunt, who lives with him and his mother, and recognizes the importance of Charlie Banks in Joey's life.
Dr. Donald Weston
Joey’s childhood psychologist who becomes a supportive figure for Joey as he negotiates his feelings about his neighborhood bully.
Rabbi Morris Lieberman
The rabbi overseeing Joey’s bar mitzvah who eventually finds common ground with Charlie Banks despite their differing backgrounds.
David Margolis
Joey’s absent father, whose departure leads to Joey’s relocation and contributes to the strengthened bond between Joey and Charlie Banks.
Craig Nakamura
Charlie's Japanese-American neighbor and friend, who faces challenges due to racial discrimination and eventually becomes a civil rights lawyer.
Stuke
The first baseman for the New York Giants who is Charlie’s best friend and later becomes a Philosophy professor.
Rachel
Joey’s classmate and love interest, who he eventually marries and with whom he starts a family.
353
Novel • Fiction
Brooklyn, New York • 1940s
1998
Middle grade
14-18 years
900L
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