Review: The Summer I Learned to Dive by Shannon McCrimmon

The Summer I Learned To Dive by Shannon McCrimmon

Published: May 9, 2012

Format: Copy provided by author in exchange for honest review

Rating: 4/5

Summary

Since the time she was a little girl, eighteen-year-old Finley “Finn” Hemmings has always lived her life according to a plan, focused and driven with no time for the average young adult’s carefree experiences. On the night of her high school graduation, things take a dramatic turn when she discovers that her mother has been keeping a secret from her—a secret that causes Finn to do something she had never done before—veer off her plan. In the middle of the night, Finn packs her bags and travels by bus to Graceville, SC seeking the truth. In Graceville, Finn has experiences that change her life forever; a summer of love, forgiveness and revelations. She learns to take chances, to take the plunge and to dive right in to what life has to offer.

My Thoughts

Finn was girl who did everything she was supposed to do. She was great in school, a great daughter and never got in trouble. But she always felt something was missing. She never experienced how it was to be a real teenager. She had questions about her past and wondered if there was more to what her mother has always told her.

When she realizes that her mother lied to her about her father and grandparents she goes off in search of the truth. In doing so she reconnects with her grandparents and finds the true meaning of family. She also makes friends, which she never really had before. Not to mention experiences her first love Jesse.

I loved this coming of age story. It was honest and sweet and showed the real meaning of family and eventually forgiveness. It shows that the truth wasn't as bad as it was made out to be. That the lies hurt way more than the truth every could.

This is the first installment of a series. The second book The Year I Almost Drowned is continuing the journey of Finn finding herself. What happens with her family and her relationship with Jesse. I can’t wait to read it and see how it all plays out. Shannon McCrimmon is a wonderful storyteller and just by this story alone I cannot wait for her future novels.