Umbrella Summer

This is a sweet book that I have read over the years to my students. The main character draws you in as you learn how she deals with the sudden death of her brother. You empathize with her as you see how her parents are also dealing with this death. This is a sweet story about keeping the friends you have, finding new friends in unexpected places, and processing and moving on past the death of a loved one.

I'm a teacher and a mom. I read this with a small group of 14 year olds,and we have had great discussions about mental health and the stages of grief. This book helps you get an inside track on personal grief. The characters are realistic and relatable.

A mi hija adolescente le encanto el libro

Umbrella Summer made me realize that you have to keep your umbrella of worry down in order to feel the sunshine. You must also realize when it is time to let go of the ones who passed away. Sadly I have gone through something similar in a way , but not as intense as Annie. My great grandma passed away when she was 92. I had broken my ankle about five days before so i couldn't go to her funeral and pay my respects. She was probably one of my greatest role models because she has gone through so much and kept a positive attitude her whole life. After reading this i know i need to let my umbrella down and feel the sunshine

I am not sure who the intended target audience/demographic was for this book but it is a very easy and entertaining read. It's kind of like an adolescent version of the Junie B Jones books that girls like to read in elementary school. I could totally relate to the main character being bogged down by excessive worry and loved the umbrella analogy. I would recommend to anyone over the age of 12 who is interested in reading an entertaining and insightful book.

The book was cheap enough...the shipping and handling was alittle high.....it cost as much as it would have from a school book order (BUT we didn't see it in her Book Order)....The one sent was in ok condition (about the same as the one from her class).....The PRICE was right for the condition it was in.....IWe received it fairly quickly.....I'd say the only real downfall was the shipping costs...

It was a little depressing at parts, but the good parts were really awesome. To me it was sad that her brother died. Probably to everyone. Her dad seemed careless. Her mom was depressed. And Annie, was, well, cautious. I mean it's good to be cautious, but she went over board. In the end I am glad she folded up her umbrella. It took her a long time, but I guess that is what happens. It's sad to loose a family member. But that's life. And we have to except that.

This story will appeal to all, both male and female. I am always looking for moving chapter books to read aloud to my students. If you are searching for strong character qualities, then this story lends itself perfectly! The fun focus on vocabulary development in the story will provide an avenue from which to extend upon. The author will make you feel everything from grief and sorrow to excitement and pure peacefulness! I laughed, cried, reflected and totally enjoyed this book.