Float by Kate Marchant: A Heartfelt Dive into Summer Adventures
When I first picked up Float by Kate Marchant, I was drawn in by its premise: a coming-of-age story about a girl navigating the choppy waters of her parents’ divorce while discovering herself over a sun-soaked summer in Florida. As I flipped through the pages, I couldn’t help but recall my own teenage summers—those sweet, fleeting moments filled with awkwardness and firsts. Marchant has masterfully captured that bittersweet nostalgia, making Float not just a story about teen love but also a profound exploration of self-acceptance.
At the heart of Float is Waverly Lyons, a girl seemingly out of her depth—literally, as she’s unable to swim—who finds herself uprooted from the icy climes of Fairbanks, Alaska, to the sunny, unfamiliar shores of Holden, Florida. I immediately resonated with her feelings of awkwardness and isolation. As she arrives at her aunt’s house, the beach culture clashes with her shivering northern spirit, a predicament many can relate to when faced with a transition. Yet, Waverly’s journey is anything but monotonous. Through charming interactions and heartfelt moments with her new friends, especially the cute neighbor Blake, she begins to blossom, filling her summer with laughter, friendship, and heartflutters.
Marchant’s writing flows effortlessly, blending humor with poignant moments. The dialogue crackles with life, echoing the uncertainties and fierceness of adolescence. "The smallest gesture of kindness — common courtesy, really — from a hot boy was enough to soften me," Waverly humorously reflects, a sentiment that many of us have felt in our own youth. It’s not just the romance; Waverly’s evolving friendships hold equal, if not greater, importance in her journey of self-discovery.
The pacing is brisk yet comfortable, making it an easy read for lazy summer afternoons. Within 376 pages, Marchant provides a satisfying feast of emotions, from the giddy excitement of new love to the heartbreak of impending goodbyes. Her characters shine, particularly Waverly’s vibrant circle of friends, which adds an added depth that enriches the narrative. I found myself rooting for Waverly as she navigated the ups and downs of her new life, and her inner monologues often made me chuckle, reminiscent of my own high school experiences.
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that Float carries themes typical of young adult literature, including adolescent mischief and awkward moments that come with burgeoning interests in romance. Some moments felt predictable, but Marchant cleverly adds little surprises that keep the story fresh, proving her aptness at storytelling.
In the end, Float is not just a charming tale of summer love; it’s a reminder of the beautiful chaos that comes with growing up. The book feels like a warm hug on a summer day—perfect for anyone looking to escape into a world of friendship, love, and self-acceptance. Whether you’re a teenager navigating your own journey or an adult reminiscing about simpler times, this book is bound to resonate. I couldn’t help but feel seen, reminded of my own teenage awkwardness and the friends who helped me float through it all.
So, grab a copy, find a sunny spot, and let yourself be whisked away by Waverly’s adventurous summer. You’ll likely finish it in one sitting, just like I did. Happy reading!