"Keeping the Moon" is a young adult novel written by Sarah Dessen. It was first published in 1999. The story revolves around a teenage girl named Colie Sparks who is sent to spend the summer with her eccentric Aunt Mira in the small beach town of Colby. Colie is initially self-conscious and insecure due to her past experiences with bullying and her mother's success as a fitness guru. Throughout the summer, Colie befriends locals including Isabel, who works at the local clothing store, and Norman, who is an aspiring artist. As she spends time with them, she begins to develop a sense of confidence and self-acceptance. She also learns more about herself and her own strengths. The title "Keeping the Moon" refers to the idea of holding onto something beautiful and intangible, even when it seems difficult to do so. The novel explores themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the importance of embracing one's true self. Like many of Sarah Dessen's novels, "Keeping the Moon" deals with issues relevant to teenagers, such as self-esteem, friendship, and finding one's place in the world. It has been praised for its realistic portrayal of teenage life and its relatable characters.