There Will Be Other Summers - Book Review

There Will Be Other Summers by Tegan Anderson is a coming-of-age novel by a young British author who captures the challenges and triumphs of young adulthood. Set in England, it offers American readers a glimpse into British culture, language, and local nuances. The story follows Ryn and Asher, two diverse, flawed, but likable characters. They both experience dysfunctional families, loneliness, depression, and physical disabilities. Ryn, who is blind, struggles with depression and isolation, while Asher is self-conscious about her advancing deafness. Can their maturing friendship help them find a will to live as adults?

 Ryn, despite being blind, possesses a vivid internal world, particularly fascinated by the sounds, textures, and smells of the nearby ocean, a sensory richness that often contrasts with his secret contemplation of suicide. Asher, on the other hand, faces constant challenges communicating in a world primarily designed for hearing individuals. She displays a marked reluctance to embrace adaptive communication methods like signing or lip reading, and actively plans for a future that will distance her from her estranged parents, who she feels do not truly comprehend or support her evolving needs. The two characters initially cross paths during group mental health therapy, a setting where they tentatively begin to explore the possibilities of friendship. A shared writing assignment, an activity that encourages introspection and expression, becomes a pivotal point, allowing them to discover unexpected connections in their individual experiences of pain and ultimately to establish a deep, platonic relationship.

Each character’s emotions and internal dialogue work together to deepen their personality, making them feel authentic and relatable. Through conversational and approachable prose, the author creates moments where the reader can connect, often thinking, “Hey, that sounds like me.” This relatability is further enhanced by the novel’s exploration of a shared love for art and writing, emphasizing the importance of expressing feelings through creative outlets. One pivotal moment occurs when Asher stumbles across a discarded letter, hinting that its writer is struggling with suicidal thoughts. Compelled by empathy and a sense of responsibility, Asher assumes the role of savior, setting out on a heartfelt mission to identify the writer and intervene before it’s too late. This journey highlights the profound impact of understanding and connection in addressing emotional struggles.

There Will Be Other Summers delves deeply into the meaning of true friendship, exploring what it means to have a best friend and uncovering the subtle yet profound difference between being alone and experiencing loneliness. It also poses thought-provoking questions, such as, “What is the difference between love and a crush?” These universal themes are brought to life through the journey of Ryn and Asher, whose story invites readers to empathize with their struggles and triumphs, sharing in both their joyful moments and their heartaches. As the characters grow and navigate their connection, the novel beautifully illustrates that “a lot can be said without sight or sound.” Recommended for mature young adult readers, the book takes an honest look at the complexities of queer identity and mental health, addressing these topics with sensitivity and depth.

Therapists and guidance counselors will find "There Will Be Other Summers,"  helpful to understanding the world of teens and handicapped.