“What We Found Last Summer is a delightful, nostalgic adventure that will have Gen X readers reminiscing about a time when childhood meant freedom, fresh air, and getting into trouble without a mobile phone in sight.
Calvin, Derek, Ryan, and Ravi are four young boys whose favorite hideaway is a treehouse in desperate need of renovation. But when they venture into the woods to liberate some building materials from an abandoned treehouse, they stumble upon something belonging to the Mob. Unfortunately, the Mob would rather like it back.
Throw in some colorful villains, a rival family down the road, and a touch of young romance, and the boys suddenly have considerably more to worry about than rotten floorboards. Not to mention a side plot where the police are trying to get a Mob member to flip on their team.
The lively pacing, believable characters, and wonderfully authentic childhood friendships make this an engaging read. The author skillfully blends Gen X nostalgia with an adventure that younger readers can equally enjoy. And just when everything seems neatly resolved, a clever twist delivers one final surprise.
The author beautifully captures the complexities of childhood friendships and family bonds, from a younger brother’s admiration for his older sibling to the jealousy of a friend feeling replaced, and the ever-present fear of one of them getting into trouble. And Lolo? Never underestimate a protective grandfather!
The heartfelt Coda, featuring a personal story about the author’s son, adds unexpected emotional depth. For Gen X readers, memories stirred by “Don’t Stop Believin’” will strike a nostalgic chord. An already entertaining story becomes something more meaningful, bringing everything wonderfully full circle.
Entertaining, amusing, and thoroughly enjoyable. Highly recommended! Rating: ★★★★★ ,” The International Review of Books.
