Book Review: Loon Cove Summer by Donna Galanti

Loon Cove Summer is a heart-felt story of loss, grieving, first crushes and the will to make a difference.

 

Since her mother's death from cancer Sarah has been trapped in her grief. The only things that keep her going is helping out at the family's campground and trying to save the loons that live on their lake.

Loons: (North American English) or divers (British / Irish English) are a group of aquatic birds found in much of North America and northern Eurasia.  

 

Loon Cove Summer is a wonderful story for tween readers 10 -14 years. It raises awareness of environmental issues as thirteen -year-old Sarah volunteers at the wild bird rehabilitation centre and also tracks the loons movements and breeding. She has a mission to save the loons in the area. This was a project she started with her mother.

 

The introduction of Theo , who is on holiday at the lake, adds a lovely friendship theme. Sarah's crush on Theo is sweet and realistic and her awkwardness, clumsiness and blushing adds humour to the story. The banter and fun ribbing between Sarah and Theo is natural and amusing. Theo has been through his own tragedy and loss however exudes an air of confidence and resilience. Talking to Theo helps Sarah understand she is not alone in her grief. I think their friendship is what I loved most about the story.

 

Loon Cove Campground has a wonderful cast of eccentric inhabitants who add wit, humour, words of wisdom and a close community feel to the story.

 

Loon Cove Summer is a story about realising your dreams for the future and working towards making them happen.

 

" Every big idea starts small with one person ... So, go - be that one person who makes a change for the better." - Loon Cove Summer

 

I adored this heartrending and heartwarming story of working out who you are after a major loss, moving on with your life and dreams. I enjoyed the environment aspect with the raptor rehabilitation centre, encouraging children to become wildlife warriors and junior conservationists.

 

Loon Cove Summer is a memorable read filled with humour, suspense, hope and reconciliation.

Donna Galanti evokes a world where love, hope and connectedness ultimately triumph.

 

Perfect for fans of: Nature, survival stories, great outdoors, STEM adventure, and environmental causes. 

 

Content: dead mother

              first kiss - very sweet 

 

My rating 5 / 5  🦆🦆🦆🦆🦆 

Recommended age: 10 - 14 years

 

Publisher: Wild Trail Press

Publication date: 6th May 2025

Genre: Children's / Tween Fiction

Pages: 276 

Price: AU$9.14 (kindle) 

Source: Courtesy of Media Masters Publicity