Book Review: Donut Summer by Anita Kelly
If you’re looking for a story that captures the sweetness of young love alongside the struggles of personal growth and identity, then Donut Summer by Anita Kelly is a must-read. When I stumbled upon this title and learned that Anita Kelly, a master of both adult romance and YA contemporary, wrote it, I felt an instant connection. The premise—a summer sprinkled with donuts, friendship, and self-discovery—had me excited from the start.
At the heart of Donut Summer is Penny, a sixteen-year-old whose summer plans quickly evolve from saving money for college to rescuing a beloved local donut shop from corporate takeover. Enter Mateo, her coworker who is anything but a friend. Their relationship starts off rocky, but as they spend more time together, Penny realizes that her views and feelings may need some serious reevaluation. This evolving dynamic is not just about donuts; it braids themes of friendship, identity, and the importance of carving out one’s space in the world.
Penny is relatable, especially with her struggles with anxiety—something that is all too real for many of us. Her tendency to overthink and anticipate the worst situations made her come across as unhinged at times, yet I found myself empathizing deeply with her. Kelly does an exceptional job portraying mental health with sensitivity, allowing readers to grasp the complications many face. Similarly, Mateo’s journey of navigating family acceptance and identity adds rich layers to their character. The support from his sister provides a warmth that counterbalances the discomfort from their parents, and it’s through this family lens that we see the importance of having a supportive network.
Kelly’s writing style is engaging and fluid, keeping the pace brisk while allowing for moments of introspection. The balance of humor and heartfelt emotion shines through, encapsulating the essence of summer and the tumultuous emotions of young adulthood. One memorable quote that struck a chord was, "Maybe life is just ridiculous. There’s something peaceful about that thought." This perfectly encapsulates the whimsical yet poignant nature of adolescence.
I also couldn’t help but smile when Penny reflects, “I will shower Mateo della Penna with good vibes and good vibes only.” This light-hearted moment is a testament to the genuine affection that blossoms between the two—a reminder that sometimes the perfect moments come when we least expect them.
In conclusion, Donut Summer is more than just a light-hearted YA read; it’s a celebration of friendship, love, and the complexities of teenage life. With its rich character development, relatable struggles, and a dash of humor, this book is perfect for anyone who enjoys stories of self-discovery wrapped in an enchanting summer setting. I recommend it to readers both young and young at heart, especially those who appreciate diverse representation and uplifting narratives.
This summer, let Penny and Mateo’s journey inspire you to embrace the sweetness in life while carving your path—donuts not included (but highly recommended!).
Discover more about Donut Summer on GoodReads >>