Book Review: Half Moon Summer by Elaine Vickers

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the HALF MOON SUMMER by Elaine Vickers Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

 

About the Book:

Title: HALF MOON SUMMER

Author: Elaine Vickers

Pub. Date: June 6, 2023

Publisher: Peachtree

Formats: Hardcover, eBook, Audiobook

Pages: 288

Find it: Goodreads, https://books2read.com/HALF-MOON-SUMMER

Two seventh graders discover it takes more than grit and a good pair of shoes to run 13.1 miles. You’ve got to have a partner who refuses to let you quit.

Drew was never much of a runner. Until his dad’s unexpected diagnosis. Mia has nothing better to do. Until she realizes entering Half Moon Bay’s half-marathon could solve her family’s housing problems.

And just like that they decide to spend their entire summer training to run 13.1 miles. Drew and Mia have very different reasons for running, but these two twelve year olds have one crucial thing in common (besides sharing a birthday): Hope. For the future. For their families. And for each other.

Reviews:

★ “Drew’s prose is direct and descriptive; Mia uses free verse to capture concise moments and feelings. . . . Uplifting.”—Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review

★ “Via distinct dual perspectives that alternate between Drew’s POV, told in compassionate prose, and Mia’s, conveyed in rhythmic verse, Vickers (Like Magic) vividly captures one emotionally turbulent summer filled with a friendship’s mutual trust and support.”—Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

“Vickers deftly distinguishes between the alternating perspectives by composing Drew’s point of view in prose and Mia’s chapters in verse. . . . their perceptiveness and the parallels between their concerns about family finances and relationships greatly enhance the emotional appeal of this story.”—The Bulletin for the Center of Children’s Books

 

Why Should You Read This?

“Half Moon Summer” by Elaine Vickers is a heartwarming and inspiring middle-grade novel that beautifully captures the transformative power of friendship, determination, and hope. Set in the picturesque town of Half Moon Bay, the story follows two unlikely seventh-grade runners, Drew and Mia, who find themselves bound together by a shared goal and a deep desire to overcome personal challenges.

Drew, not known for his athleticism, has never considered running seriously until his father’s unexpected diagnosis. Struck by the reality of his father’s health, he sees running the town’s half-marathon as an opportunity to do something meaningful and prove to himself that he can push beyond his perceived limits. On the other hand, Mia, facing her family’s housing problems, sees the half-marathon as a potential solution. Together, they embark on an extraordinary summer journey that will test their physical endurance and mental strength.

Elaine Vickers does an exceptional job of portraying the emotional depth of both protagonists. Drew and Mia are distinct characters with their own unique personalities, backgrounds, and motivations. Readers will easily connect with their struggles, fears, and hopes, making the story all the more relatable and powerful.

The heart of the narrative lies in the blossoming friendship between Drew and Mia. As they train together, they learn to support and encourage each other, forming a bond that extends beyond the race itself. Their dynamic is beautifully portrayed, showcasing the importance of having someone who believes in you, even when you doubt yourself.

Vickers’ prose flows effortlessly, making the novel a delight to read. The story is not just about running; it delves into themes of family, resilience, and finding strength in the face of adversity. Drew and Mia’s journey is not just about crossing the finish line but discovering the true essence of hope—for themselves, their families, and their futures.

The setting of Half Moon Bay adds a charming backdrop to the narrative. The quaint coastal town, with its vibrant community and supportive atmosphere, further enriches the story, making it feel warm and welcoming.

“Half Moon Summer” is a perfect blend of heart, humor, and inspiration. It teaches young readers valuable life lessons about perseverance, empathy, and the power of human connections. The story encourages readers to dream big, take chances, and understand that the support of a friend can make all the difference.

In conclusion, Elaine Vickers’ “Half Moon Summer” is an enchanting and emotionally resonant novel that celebrates the strength of the human spirit and the beauty of friendship. With its relatable characters and uplifting themes, this book is an ideal read for middle-grade readers and beyond. Drew and Mia’s journey will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression and inspire readers to chase their dreams, one step at a time.

 

About Elaine Vickers:

Elaine Vickers lives with her husband and three kids in Southern Utah, where she writes books and teaches college chemistry. She always wanted to be a writer and a teacher, except when she wanted to be an architect, an artist, a pediatrician, a judge, or a famous actress. Visit her at elainevickers.com for book recommendations, science activities, and ideas for starting your own backyard book club.

 

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Giveaway Details:

1 winner will receive a finished copy of HALF MOON SUMMER, US Only.

Ends July 25^th, midnight EST

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