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59 pages 1 hour read

That Summer

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021

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Book Brief

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Jennifer Weiner

That Summer

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021
Book Details
Pages

432

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania • 2010s

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In That Summer by Jennifer Weiner, a chance email mix-up leads Daisy Shoemaker to meet Diana Starling, whose traumatic past intersects with Daisy's present family life, revealing deep histories of accountability, blame, and justice within the context of the #MeToo Movement. The narrative, told from multiple perspectives, explores the lasting effects of a sexual assault involving Daisy's husband, Hal, and how it impacts their daughter, Beatrice.

Emotional

Bittersweet

Nostalgic

Contemplative

Romantic

Reviews & Readership

4.0

102,620 ratings

67%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

That Summer by Jennifer Weiner offers a compelling narrative with well-drawn characters and timely themes. Positive reviews commend the book's emotional depth and engaging storytelling. Negative feedback points to occasional predictability and pacing issues. Overall, it's considered a thought-provoking and enjoyable read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read That Summer?

Ideal for fans of contemporary women's fiction, That Summer by Jennifer Weiner appeals to readers who enjoy character-driven stories with emotional depth and themes of personal growth. Similar to Elin Hilderbrand's The Identicals and Liane Moriarty's Big Little Lies, this novel tackles complex relationships and long-buried secrets.

4.0

102,620 ratings

67%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Diana Scalzi (Diana Starling)

The protagonist who evolves from a hopeful teenager into a multifaceted adult, facing the challenges arising from her past trauma.

Originally named Diana Rosen, she is a key character whose journey involves navigating personal struggles and redefining her identity.

A successful lawyer with a complicated past, whose actions and attitudes have lasting effects on those around him.

The daughter of Daisy and Hal, she is a bold advocate for women's rights and represents a new generation of empowered young women.

Daisy's older brother who struggles with past actions and has dedicated his life to good works to deal with guilt.

A caretaker on Cape Cod known for his patience and kindness, providing support and stability to those in need.

Hal's father, embodying traditional, patriarchal views and resisting changes brought by modern social movements.

An individual with a troubled past who struggles with personal demons and represents the weight of past mistakes.

A classmate of Beatrice's, initially engaging with her on a dare, but potentially influenced by her strong principles.

Daisy's late best friend whose memory and wisdom continue to guide and influence Daisy's decisions.

Book Details
Pages

432

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania • 2010s

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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