Plot summary, “Twenty Boy Summer” by Sarah Ockler in 5 Minutes - Book Review
0"Twenty Boy Summer" is a young adult contemporary novel written by Sarah Ockler. Published in 2009, the story revolves around the friendship of two best friends, Anna Reiley and Frankie Perino, as they navigate grief, secrets, and summer romance.
The novel begins a year after the death of Anna's brother, Matt. Anna and Frankie have always been inseparable, but they both harbor unspoken feelings for each other. To fulfill a pact they made with Matt, the girls embark on a mission to find and date twenty boys during their summer vacation in California.
As they spend the summer at a beachside vacation home with Anna's family, the girls navigate their complicated emotions and the challenges of love and loss. Anna's guilt and grief over her brother's death, as well as her growing romantic feelings for Frankie, create a backdrop of emotional turmoil.
However, the secrets the girls hold and the truth about Matt's death threaten to unravel their friendship. Anna struggles with her feelings for Frankie, knowing that pursuing a relationship with her best friend's secret love might jeopardize their bond.
"Twenty Boy Summer" delves into themes of love, grief, guilt, and the complexities of teenage friendships. The story explores the ways in which grief can impact relationships and how individuals navigate their emotions while trying to move forward.
Sarah Ockler's novel has been praised for its realistic portrayal of teenage emotions, the strong bond between Anna and Frankie, and its exploration of grief and healing. It tackles sensitive topics with depth and sensitivity, capturing the complexities of adolescence and the transformative power of summer experiences.
It's important to note that "Twenty Boy Summer" deals with mature themes and is recommended for young adult readers. The novel has received positive reviews for its authentic portrayal of grief and its impact on relationships, making it a compelling read for fans of contemporary young adult fiction.