This One Summer by Mariko Tamaki captures the nuances of adolescence with its beautiful illustrations and poignant storytelling. Critics praise its handling of complex themes and the realistic portrayal of teenage emotions. However, some readers feel the pacing drags and that the ending lacks resolution. Overall, it’s a compelling, visually stunning graphic novel.

Fans of Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi or Annie on My Mind by Nancy Garden will enjoy This One Summer by Mariko Tamaki. Ideal for young adults who appreciate nuanced coming-of-age stories, it explores themes of friendship, family, and adolescence with evocative illustrations and a summer setting.

This One Summer follows preteens Rose and Windy during a summer at Awago Beach as they navigate the complexities of growing up, encountering adolescent curiosity, family tensions, and local teenage dramas. The story captures their experiences with friendship, discovery, and the realization that adulthood is more complicated than it seems. The book discusses sexuality, suicide, a miscarriage, and includes profanity.

Mariko Tamaki

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This One Summer Background

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Pages 1-65

This One Summer Pages 1-65 Summary & Analysis

Pages 66-169

This One Summer Pages 66-169 Summary & Analysis

Pages 170-259

This One Summer Pages 170-259 Summary & Analysis

Pages 260-319

This One Summer Pages 260-319 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

This One Summer Character Analysis

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This One Summer

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