Written by Evan Griffith
Manatee Summer tells the story of a boy named Peter and how he navigates a summer with a lot of changes. His Grandpa, who is more like a father, has moved in with him and has Alzheimer’s. Peter is his caretaker while his Mom goes to work. Also, he learned that his best friend Tommy is moving, which means they won’t be starting middle school together in the fall. On top of all of this, Peter discovers an injured manatee, which he names Zoe. The story works out Peter’s frustrations about his changing life and how he realizes he can be an activist to save Zoe and other manatees. An enjoyable read, very well written. It’s a story that will resonate with children with difficulties and changes in their life, and can show how to work through them.
Reviewed by Erin Vorkink, Librarian, Morningside Elementary
Review shared in November 2022
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 3-5
Manatee Summer
Written by Evan Griffith
Quill Tree Books, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers
271 pages
Release Date: June 28, 2022
ISBN: 9780063094918
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
