The Summer of June

Eleven-year-old June has goals for the summer. One of them is to beat her anxiety and become the brave lion she knows she can be. This might be difficult, but June’s up for the challenge. Setting goals in June’s case involves teaching your friend how to play chess, regretting your shaved head, and dealing with a mean and selfish librarian. This might seem hard, but once June finds herself, this summer will be worth it.

June is such a lovable character because she tries so hard to fight her anxiety. I love that she and her mom are both so gutsy! Homer was a sweet and interesting character who grew on me. He seemed a little rude only at first, but he proves to be a wonderful friend to June. The library where June’s mother works sounds so fun and lovely! I love that the majority of the story took place at a public library. I think this would be a great book for kids who are struggling with anxiety to read alone or with their parents.