smclawler 's review for:

This One Summer by Mariko Tamaki

4.0

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This summer, almost everyone at Awago Beach is dealing with an age appropriate problem. I say "almost" everyone because Windy's mother and grandmother seem to be happily humming along in life, with happy hours, art, and moonlight swims. The 'tweens talk about their bodies, misinformation about sex, and watch R and X rated horror movies. The teens advertise their bodies via clothing, talk about sex, and then harass those who may have had sex. The adults don't talk about sex, but they like to horse around, tell jokes, and generally "play". Rose's mom is the exception as she is suffering from depression due to a matter that involves sex. It is definitely a coming of age story for all the age groups, with the final crisis bringing resolution to the characters. Beautiful artwork sets the mood for the events, places, and people.