Review of Donut Summer by Anita Kelly
When I first heard about Donut Summer, I was instantly intrigued—not just because it involved donuts (seriously, who can resist a good pastry?), but also because Anita Kelly’s knack for weaving emotion into charming narratives had me hooked from the beginning. Having received a digital ARC for an honest review, I was eager to dive in and explore what Kelly had in store for us this time in the realm of queer young adult contemporary fiction.
At its heart, Donut Summer is a beautifully crafted tale about sixteen-year-old Penny, who starts her summer with a dual mission: raising money for her college tuition and saving her beloved donut shop from being swallowed by corporate greed. The juxtaposition of her summer goals with her personal growth is striking, and I found myself rooting for her from page one. The dynamic between Penny and her coworker Mateo—who are decidedly NOT friends at the beginning—adds a lovely layer of tension that keeps the story fresh.
Penny’s struggle with extreme anxiety, manifested through her overthinking and spiraling thoughts, is depicted honestly and empathetically. I couldn’t help but feel for her as she navigated the complexities of her mind. In a world where mental health discussions are becoming increasingly important, Kelly handles this theme with deft sensitivity, making Penny’s experiences relatable to anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed.
Then there’s Mateo—a character who tugged at my heartstrings. Coming from a family that is still trying to accept their identity, Mateo represents the struggle many face in finding acceptance and understanding. Their bond with Penny not only facilitates personal growth but also underscores the importance of friendship and support during challenging times.
Kelly’s writing style is both engaging and fluid, making the story flow effortlessly. The pacing kept me invested, with just the right balance of lighthearted moments mingled with deeper, more emotional scenes. Quotes like, “Maybe life is just ridiculous. There’s something peaceful about that thought,” resonated with me deeply, reminding me of the importance of finding humor amidst life’s chaos. Similarly, Mateo’s reflections on their identity and fluidity—“I prefer queer… Nothing wrong with bi, or pan…” —sparked a beautiful discussion about labels and self-acceptance that I wish more stories would tackle.
Overall, Donut Summer is the perfect summer read for anyone who loves stories filled with friendship, young love, and the sweet (pun intended) discoveries of self. With its optimistic take on mental health, identity, and resilience, it offers a satisfying conclusion that leaves you hopeful. Whether you’re drawn to YA contemporaries or beautifully told queer narratives, this book deserves a spot on your shelf.
If you’re like me and enjoy narratives that evoke both laughter and contemplation, then I highly recommend picking up Donut Summer. Anita Kelly has a way of creating characters who feel incredibly real and relatable, and I, for one, am looking forward to more of her work in the future!