Review of The Sun Will Come Out by Joanne Levy
As a lifelong advocate for middle-grade literature, I was immediately drawn to The Sun Will Come Out by Joanne Levy. The title alone evokes a sense of hopeful anticipation, and I couldn’t resist diving into Bea Gelman’s world—a twelve-year-old navigating the complexities of summer camp, friendship, and self-discovery. Having long been fascinated by stories about growth and overcoming adversity, I found this book both engaging and relatable, particularly in our post-pandemic era when feelings of isolation and anxiety are all too familiar.
At the heart of this charming novel is Bea, a painfully shy girl who’s got a knack for breaking out in hives at the mere thought of talking to new people. When her best friend, Frankie, opts out of their planned summer adventure at Camp Shalom, Bea is left to tackle the unknown all on her own. This poignant setup strikes a chord with anyone who has ever felt apprehensive in new social settings. There’s a raw honesty in Bea’s experiences, from her struggles with mean girls to her encounter with genuine friendship.
Joanne Levy has a delightful way of weaving humor throughout Bea’s challenges. I found myself laughing out loud at her antics, especially her decision to spend the summer in the infirmary to avoid the emotional upheaval of camp life. It’s a relatable choice for anyone who has desired to escape from their worries, and yet, it leads Bea to a pivotal friendship with Harry, a boy facing much more serious challenges than hers. Through Harry’s strength and positive outlook on life, Bea learns that life’s hurdles can be met with resilience, and that it’s okay to step out of her comfort zone—even when the butterflies in her stomach feel more like dragons!
The writing style in The Sun Will Come Out is approachable and engaging, crafted with a keen sense of pacing that keeps the reader invested. Each chapter unfolds with Bea’s voice resonating with authenticity, her doubts, fears, and triumphs mirrored in the pages—making it easy for readers of all ages, not just middle-graders, to connect with her journey. The narration is peppered with humorous touches that lighten the emotional heft, allowing moments of reflection amidst the laughter.
A particularly memorable quote that resonated with me was when Bea muses, "Silver linings can be found just about anywhere." This idea beautifully encapsulates the essence of the novel: that even in the most challenging situations, hope and friendship can emerge as guiding lights. It not only speaks to Bea’s growth but also serves as a reminder to all of us to look for the good, even when life feels daunting.
This book is perfect for young readers navigating their own friendship dynamics, making it an ideal choice for classrooms, reading clubs, or summer reading lists. It’s also a great read for parents and caregivers who want to spark discussions about self-worth, friendship, and resilience with their children.
In conclusion, The Sun Will Come Out left me with a sense of warmth and encouragement. I found myself rooting for Bea every step of the way as she bravely stepped into the unknown. Levy has crafted a delightful tale that not only entertains, but also educates, reminding us all that growth often comes from confronting our fears—and sometimes, the sun really does shine through the clouds.