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Summer Sisters

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1998

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Book Brief

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Judy Blume

Summer Sisters

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1998
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Martha's Vineyard • 1970s-1990s

Publication Year

1998

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Judy Blume's Summer Sisters, published in 1998, the novel tracks the evolving friendship between Vix, who comes from a modest background, and the affluent Caitlin from adolescence into adulthood, exploring themes like romantic entanglements, familial dynamics, and the contrast between innocence and maturity. The book discusses topics such as child abuse, sexual abuse, grooming, and suicidal ideation.

Nostalgic

Bittersweet

Contemplative

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.1

129,885 ratings

67%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Summer Sisters by Judy Blume captivates readers with its nostalgic, poignant depiction of friendship and coming-of-age. Critics praise Blume's character development and emotional depth. Some find the pacing uneven and the climax underwhelming. Overall, it's lauded for its relatable, evocative storytelling, but not without minor flaws.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Summer Sisters?

A reader who would enjoy Summer Sisters by Judy Blume likely appreciates coming-of-age narratives and deep explorations of friendship and complex relationships. Fans of The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants by Ann Brashares and Beaches by Iris Rainer Dart will find this novel equally engaging and evocative.

4.1

129,885 ratings

67%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Vix (Victoria Leonard)

The protagonist, whose journey from a modest upbringing to a transformative friendship with Caitlin unfolds through her perspective and experiences, marked by a drive for independence and academic success.

A dramatic and enigmatic character from a wealthy family, whose carefree lifestyle contrasts with Vix's, bringing both friendship and complexity to Vix's life.

Caitlin's laid-back and former hippie father, who maintains a mostly passive role in the household and has a relaxed approach to parenting.

Lamb's wife, who becomes a nurturing figure for Vix, supporting her education and treating her as part of the family.

A working-class islander from Martha's Vineyard, who becomes Vix's primary romantic interest over summers spent on the island.

Vix’s younger brother, with whom she shares a close bond and who follows her footsteps in seeking independence.

Vix’s mother, who works for the Countess and is portrayed as distant and pragmatic, with a focus on maintaining family stability.

Vix’s supportive father, who struggles with employment stability and maintains a passive demeanor much like Lamb.

Vix’s sister, who is caught in a challenging and contrasting life situation, serving as both an antagonist and foil to Vix.

Vix’s brother, who has a brief presence in the narrative, with concerns surrounding his safety hinted at.

Abby’s son from a previous marriage, who spends summers on the Vineyard and has a developing character through experiences with depression.

A friend of Daniel's from Chicago who becomes Vix’s romantic interest later in the story.

Caitlin’s brother, who avoids the household’s tumultuous dynamics and excels in computers while grappling with adolescent challenges.

A frail and quirky employer of Tawny, whose eccentric stories and connections to characters in the book add depth to her role.

Caitlin’s mother, who shares a bohemian lifestyle and beliefs with her daughter, eschewing traditional parental responsibilities in favor of personal adventures.

Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Martha's Vineyard • 1970s-1990s

Publication Year

1998

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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