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.

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.

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

Judy Blume

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Summer Sisters and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Summer Sisters Summary

Background

Summer Sisters Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Dancing Queen (1977-1980)”

Prologue-Part 1

Summer Sisters Prologue-Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Rapture (1982-1983)”

Part 2 Summer Sisters Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “We Are the World (1983-1987)”

Part 3 Summer Sisters Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Didn’t We Almost Have It All (1987-1990)”

Part 4 Summer Sisters Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5 Summary: “Steal the Night (1990-1995)”

Part 5-Epilogue

Summer Sisters Part 5-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Summer Sisters Character Analysis

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Themes

Summer Sisters Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Summer Sisters Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Summer Sisters Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Summer Sisters Essay Topics

Summer Sisters

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Summer Sisters?

Reading Age

Book Details