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Atomic Summer
THREE friends, TWO secrets, ONE lie, and the summer that changed their lives
2012 Southern California Book Festival, Honorable Mention recipient
What readers are saying about Atomic Summer?
Every character comes alive
Refreshing
The story transported me back in time
˃˃˃ Why should you grab a copy of this award winning novel?
2012 Southern California Book Festival, Honorable Mention recipient
From award winning author, Elaine D. Walsh comes an introspective and emotional novel with vivid characterization. This insightful, nostalgic, and witty story follows the lives of three teenage girls as they 'come of age’.
In 1953, the world was ripe for destruction. The Korean War dragged on and the Rosenbergs were executed as spies. Senator Joseph McCarthy convinced the country communists were infiltrating the government, and the threat of nuclear war festered in the collective consciousness of the nation.
While American’s constructed backyard bomb shelters, the government conducted nuclear tests in the desert, three teenage girls planned their futures. Their innocent conversations about what each of them would do if the end of the world were imminent, coupled with a friend’s obsession, become the catalyst for a prank that spins wildly beyond control and draws in an entire town. Left behind in the wake of that summer’s events are their unrealized dreams and open wounds. In 1973, a reunion trip to the small town of their youth returns them to the summer of 1953 and the passion and betrayal that changed their lives.
BE PREPARED! This summer will be Atomic!
What readers are saying about Atomic Summer?
Every character comes alive
Refreshing
The story transported me back in time
˃˃˃ Why should you grab a copy of this award winning novel?
In addition to being one of the top summer reads, the author dedicated the book to her mother who died of cancer and is donating all her royalties to cancer causes and charities.
Grab your copy now and see why everyone else loves Atomic Summer380 pages, Paperback
First published June 21, 2012
16 people are currently reading
935 people want to read
About the author
Elaine D Walsh
4 books165 followersThe latest...Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award quarter finalist and recipient of an honorable mention at the 2012 Southern California Book Festival.
Nimitz Highway and River Street is an intersection on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. It is also the place I impatiently came out of the womb ready to start my own personal history. Plan A was the military vehicle whisking my laboring mother toward the base hospital for a traditional birth. That did not happen. Plan B has been my life since.
I was one of two children but with my father being one of nine, I enjoyed the richness and craziness of growing up in a larger extended family. Being brought up Catholic I have an appreciation for the history and tradition of the church that stays with me although I did not stay with the church. My mother suffered bouts of guilt about birth control and other church teachings I never let bother me. I struggled in other ways, dealt with it, and moved on.
Mom did her best to prepare me for life as a woman. Secretarial courses and domestic chores would prepare me to be a wife. Growing up in the flowering women’s rights movement as a child of the 70’s, we had differing ideas, and I had other plans. I went off to college in upstate New York majoring in psychology with the intent of being a “death & dying” counselor. This would be my paying job while I wrote the next great American novel. Plan B kicked in and I graduated with a B.A. in English, packed my car, and upset my parents by moving to Florida in search of my destiny.
This is where you will find me now, along with tens of thousands of northern transplants who invaded the Sunshine State. I adopted the sports allegiances of my adopted home state (Tampa Bay Rays and Buccaneers) much to the chagrin of my New York Yankee baseball and football Giant family. Without ever having taken one business course, I created my own brand and became a successful business executive by day and women’s fiction writer by night. So far, I have lived a Lifetime Movie Network life, a mixture of extraordinary, ordinary, mundane, and terrifying, providing me great inspiration and fanning my creative flame.
My father instilled in me a strong sense of family. Semper Fidelis is not only his beloved Marine Corp motto but also a guiding principle in his life. My family stood by me, accepted me, and supported me during my difficult times. Other times, we laughed and created memories. He brought to life the words unconditional love.
From my mother, I gained an appreciation for the complexities of relationships and richness in life one finds exploring and experiencing everything from a recipe, to a historical site, to lunch with friends, or a glass of wine. Material possessions meant little to her. She was a collector of experiences. We journeyed together and grew as individuals and as mother-daughter. I shared her journeys battling cancer, surviving one and succumbing to another. In one of our last soulful conversations before she died, she told me she was glad I also had a daughter and she hoped I would enjoy my own daughter as much as she enjoyed me.
Being a daughter, mother, friend, and soul mate are the most powerful influences in my life and my stories. But as a women’s fiction writer, does this surprise anyone?
Nimitz Highway and River Street is an intersection on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. It is also the place I impatiently came out of the womb ready to start my own personal history. Plan A was the military vehicle whisking my laboring mother toward the base hospital for a traditional birth. That did not happen. Plan B has been my life since.
I was one of two children but with my father being one of nine, I enjoyed the richness and craziness of growing up in a larger extended family. Being brought up Catholic I have an appreciation for the history and tradition of the church that stays with me although I did not stay with the church. My mother suffered bouts of guilt about birth control and other church teachings I never let bother me. I struggled in other ways, dealt with it, and moved on.
Mom did her best to prepare me for life as a woman. Secretarial courses and domestic chores would prepare me to be a wife. Growing up in the flowering women’s rights movement as a child of the 70’s, we had differing ideas, and I had other plans. I went off to college in upstate New York majoring in psychology with the intent of being a “death & dying” counselor. This would be my paying job while I wrote the next great American novel. Plan B kicked in and I graduated with a B.A. in English, packed my car, and upset my parents by moving to Florida in search of my destiny.
This is where you will find me now, along with tens of thousands of northern transplants who invaded the Sunshine State. I adopted the sports allegiances of my adopted home state (Tampa Bay Rays and Buccaneers) much to the chagrin of my New York Yankee baseball and football Giant family. Without ever having taken one business course, I created my own brand and became a successful business executive by day and women’s fiction writer by night. So far, I have lived a Lifetime Movie Network life, a mixture of extraordinary, ordinary, mundane, and terrifying, providing me great inspiration and fanning my creative flame.
My father instilled in me a strong sense of family. Semper Fidelis is not only his beloved Marine Corp motto but also a guiding principle in his life. My family stood by me, accepted me, and supported me during my difficult times. Other times, we laughed and created memories. He brought to life the words unconditional love.
From my mother, I gained an appreciation for the complexities of relationships and richness in life one finds exploring and experiencing everything from a recipe, to a historical site, to lunch with friends, or a glass of wine. Material possessions meant little to her. She was a collector of experiences. We journeyed together and grew as individuals and as mother-daughter. I shared her journeys battling cancer, surviving one and succumbing to another. In one of our last soulful conversations before she died, she told me she was glad I also had a daughter and she hoped I would enjoy my own daughter as much as she enjoyed me.
Being a daughter, mother, friend, and soul mate are the most powerful influences in my life and my stories. But as a women’s fiction writer, does this surprise anyone?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
September 5, 2012
I got to tell you. Atomic Summer was an enjoyable read!
I certainly commend Walsh on her characterization. Normally when I read a book in two days, I am not that impacted by characters at all. However, Atomic Summer is an exception. Each character evoked different emotional responses from me. Faith's character was eponymous of her name. She is a loyal Catholic, and though she tries her best to uphold morality, she is often gullible. There are times when I feel so sorry for her when she cannot interpret how vicious the world is. Octavia is socially-awkward, and for a part of the book, I grew tired of having to read her narration. Surrounded by books and constricted by her responsibilities for Archie, Octavia though intelligent, is quite mundane considering her age. Then I realized, "wait - this girl has adult responsibilities to fulfill". So I must confess, I began to grow fond of her because I felt pitiful for her. Also, she had the most pain to deal with. My favorite characterization was for Bernadette. She is a vicious adolescent with dictating hormones and no conscience. Though Bernadette did not narrate, Walsh gave us a lot of information on her via her loyal friends. I think Bernadette represents a lot of people we know today. She is manipulative and mocking, covetous and crazed. Sometimes I wish Walsh made her break an arm. There are many other characters in the book - Susannah, Stephen, Lyle, Allen, Wesley, etc - that not only enhance the plot, but make the book more authentic by presenting personalities we are familiar with.
The plot was fast-paced - perfect for a summer read. I spent two nights reading this on my tablet, often finding out that morning came upon me.The novel is chronicled well by both Octavia and Faith. Their transitions are well-organized, allowing for a smooth plot. It was not hard to follow at all despite the stark difference between character narration. Unfortunately, the ending of the novel seemed a bit rushed. The reunion of 1973 was too functional in its exposing of secrets. The reunion was more of a "tell-all" session, and could have been less obvious.
Walsh's style is one that keeps readers intrigued. She leaves a lot of room for suspicion and even adds elements of humor. Flashbacks are obviously essential since the characters in the novel are adults now. Her diction differs amongst narrators. For instance, with Octavia you will except eloquence and slight depression. While with Faith, her diction is simple. She presents a wide range of personalities, whether it be a sleazy lurker (Lyle) or an egotistic matriarch (Susannah). With her ability to depict such distinct natures, it is obvious that Walsh excels in being a versatile writer. Her figurative elements such as her historical allusions and vivid imagery build up a story that immediately places the reader in the frantic atmosphere of the 1950s. I also loved the combination of themes Walsh presented. There is childhood innocence, betrayal, sexuality, religion, loss, grief - it is amazing how many themes can occupy such a short read.
I highly recommend Atomic Summer not only to those in need of a fast-paced read, but to those who insist that the world was completely structured differently in terms of society. You will be shocked to see how Atomic Summer - a 1950s novel -parallels to our lives today. Its significance is one that will never expire as long as we live.
I certainly commend Walsh on her characterization. Normally when I read a book in two days, I am not that impacted by characters at all. However, Atomic Summer is an exception. Each character evoked different emotional responses from me. Faith's character was eponymous of her name. She is a loyal Catholic, and though she tries her best to uphold morality, she is often gullible. There are times when I feel so sorry for her when she cannot interpret how vicious the world is. Octavia is socially-awkward, and for a part of the book, I grew tired of having to read her narration. Surrounded by books and constricted by her responsibilities for Archie, Octavia though intelligent, is quite mundane considering her age. Then I realized, "wait - this girl has adult responsibilities to fulfill". So I must confess, I began to grow fond of her because I felt pitiful for her. Also, she had the most pain to deal with. My favorite characterization was for Bernadette. She is a vicious adolescent with dictating hormones and no conscience. Though Bernadette did not narrate, Walsh gave us a lot of information on her via her loyal friends. I think Bernadette represents a lot of people we know today. She is manipulative and mocking, covetous and crazed. Sometimes I wish Walsh made her break an arm. There are many other characters in the book - Susannah, Stephen, Lyle, Allen, Wesley, etc - that not only enhance the plot, but make the book more authentic by presenting personalities we are familiar with.
The plot was fast-paced - perfect for a summer read. I spent two nights reading this on my tablet, often finding out that morning came upon me.The novel is chronicled well by both Octavia and Faith. Their transitions are well-organized, allowing for a smooth plot. It was not hard to follow at all despite the stark difference between character narration. Unfortunately, the ending of the novel seemed a bit rushed. The reunion of 1973 was too functional in its exposing of secrets. The reunion was more of a "tell-all" session, and could have been less obvious.
Walsh's style is one that keeps readers intrigued. She leaves a lot of room for suspicion and even adds elements of humor. Flashbacks are obviously essential since the characters in the novel are adults now. Her diction differs amongst narrators. For instance, with Octavia you will except eloquence and slight depression. While with Faith, her diction is simple. She presents a wide range of personalities, whether it be a sleazy lurker (Lyle) or an egotistic matriarch (Susannah). With her ability to depict such distinct natures, it is obvious that Walsh excels in being a versatile writer. Her figurative elements such as her historical allusions and vivid imagery build up a story that immediately places the reader in the frantic atmosphere of the 1950s. I also loved the combination of themes Walsh presented. There is childhood innocence, betrayal, sexuality, religion, loss, grief - it is amazing how many themes can occupy such a short read.
I highly recommend Atomic Summer not only to those in need of a fast-paced read, but to those who insist that the world was completely structured differently in terms of society. You will be shocked to see how Atomic Summer - a 1950s novel -parallels to our lives today. Its significance is one that will never expire as long as we live.
November 27, 2013
THREE friends, TWO secrets, ONE lie, and the summer that changed their lives.
This is the second time I write this review, so I don't think it would be as good as the original because I am a dork and I happen to delete all my novels by mistake yeah I am a dorky....
My professor said once about a novel that is it enlightening novel. I feel this way toward this book. However it is not a boring book. It is not just a book; it is a book about real life, about war, love, faith, loss, dreams, some may got what they want, but others won't...
It is story about three friends. Different personalities, different prospective, and it is spoken in multiple points of view. In one tiny summer that changes their lives forever.
I found the side characters are interesting and enjoying Savannah Vaughn, Lyle, reverent Pappy, father Buffy, the witch, Octavia's brother, peter... and many other characters. They really reassemble real people or the inhabitants of a small town in the time of war.
The characters were complicated, we can study them from different sides, I found the character of reverent pappy is very interesting in away, and Lyle's character in another.
There were small tiny things or marks added to the book or to the plot a strong coherence like the rosary, peaches, I Love Lucy show and many other things.
The environment of the war at that time well painted, it really adds to the really of the book, the places, characters, and events are pulsing with life, Giving us stories from life and lessons about life and death, about the horrible side of the war, the side which most people try to ignore, the real and vicious side of it.
Main and favourite characters:
Faith; good hearted beautiful sweet girl, her only dream is to have children and to be with the guy she loves Allen, narrator and friend number 1.
Octavia red headed, smart girl. She dreams to be a doctor. She hates Bernadette and she doesn’t trust her unlike faith, which turns out to be the right thing. She refuses to let go of her brother, and keeps pushing him on fighting his definite death, narrator and friend number 2.
Bernadette Vaughn, oh god, this is a hell of a character, she is playful young woman. Obsessed about sex and the secret of controlling men and manipulate them. She has her own ideas and prospective about life, for example she believes the end of the world is coming and she doesn’t want to die virgin. She wants to get what she wants even though it means to betrayal her closest friend. However I can't just blame her for her actions and what she did to Allen, not exactly because Bernadette was influenced by the world of that time, the environment, her mother teachings, after all she is her mother's daughter. Friend number 3.
Allen 18 years, handsome, dreams to be a scientist; he tries to keep his homosexuality low, and hid it away. He ends up unhappy trapped in small town, One of Bernadette cunning victims.
Wesley 17 dreams to be a playwright. I could say he is the one having love affair with Allen. But unlike Allen he manages to get away from this town and he makes his dreams come true. Fav
Stephen Vaughn handsome, sergeant from Korean War, broken from what he had done and seen in the war. He is the one who woke the tears in my eyes. Fav
My favourite paragraphs are for the same characters which are.
“You have shown tremendous courage in letting them go and in letting Archie go, even though you’re not quite sure what it will mean to you. Still, you’re willing to accept the risk and trust something good will come of it. If only I can be half as courageous as you.”
“You are courageous.”
“You’ll find I’m not and when you do, please don’t be disappointed in me.”
“How could I ever be disappointed in you? I couldn’t have done what I did without you. You said this place was a fitting place to say goodbye. Say goodbye to your ghosts then.”
“This is where we’ll say our good-byes. As for them, I’ll take them someplace else, someplace fitting, to a tomb where I can bury them and tell them to go to hell.”
“I don’t want you to leave Port Pompeii.”
“It’s time to leave, Octavia. I think I can do it this time.”
“Will you tell me where you’re going? I’ll write. I’ll have plenty of time to write now that I won’t have my books. I could even visit you sometime.”
His sorrowful eyes hold me in his gaze. “You’ll have to let me go, just as you’re letting these other things go that are important to you.”
Stephen to Octavia.
*****
Finally, my passion wanes enough to allow me to realize how embarrassed I should be. As I am about to retreat and free him from the fury of my kisses, I feel his hand on the back of my head, stopping me from retreating. Suddenly, his lips envelop mine and his tongue slips past my lips, into my mouth, creating an explosion inside of me. I respond to his kiss with a voracious appetite, trying to stuff myself full with hundreds of kisses all at once until his patient mouth finally coaxes mine to relax and enjoy the tenderness with which he kisses me
******
“I’m angry with you, Stephen Vaughn.” I allow the initial pain of speaking those words to wash over me and steel myself for the others. “I’m angry because you chose the easy path instead of the more difficult one. You could have been a hero, one you could have been proud of. You see, you didn’t have to be the hero everyone else thought you should be. The ones came back and overcame their ghost and demons in spite of their experiences and lost limbs, they were heroes. The man you met in Korea didn’t want you to follow him into death. I am sure he wanted you to live so that at least one of your lives could have been fruitful. I am angry because you gave me the courage to face my fears, yet lacked the courage to tackle your own. I am angry because I’ve thought for years that you only had enough courage for one person, and I thought you gave it to me, and that somehow I robbed you of life by taking it.” I draw in a deep breath and exhale the thought into words I should have been spoken too many years ago. “I am angry because you left me even though you knew how much I would miss you; how much I loved you. ”
This is Octavia addressing Stephen.
I cried and I cried and I cried...
Why Stephen?
Why did you quit the fight?!!
Why!!!
My favourite stories in the book are Octavia's and Stephen for sure, along with Wesley's and Allen's story. Both of them ended in a tragic way that made me shade tears.
This book is def worth reading.
Recommended for everyone.
Thank you Elaine D Walsh for this amazing book, although it made me cry, it is a hell of experience.
This is the second time I write this review, so I don't think it would be as good as the original because I am a dork and I happen to delete all my novels by mistake yeah I am a dorky....
My professor said once about a novel that is it enlightening novel. I feel this way toward this book. However it is not a boring book. It is not just a book; it is a book about real life, about war, love, faith, loss, dreams, some may got what they want, but others won't...
It is story about three friends. Different personalities, different prospective, and it is spoken in multiple points of view. In one tiny summer that changes their lives forever.
I found the side characters are interesting and enjoying Savannah Vaughn, Lyle, reverent Pappy, father Buffy, the witch, Octavia's brother, peter... and many other characters. They really reassemble real people or the inhabitants of a small town in the time of war.
The characters were complicated, we can study them from different sides, I found the character of reverent pappy is very interesting in away, and Lyle's character in another.
There were small tiny things or marks added to the book or to the plot a strong coherence like the rosary, peaches, I Love Lucy show and many other things.
The environment of the war at that time well painted, it really adds to the really of the book, the places, characters, and events are pulsing with life, Giving us stories from life and lessons about life and death, about the horrible side of the war, the side which most people try to ignore, the real and vicious side of it.
Main and favourite characters:
Faith; good hearted beautiful sweet girl, her only dream is to have children and to be with the guy she loves Allen, narrator and friend number 1.
Octavia red headed, smart girl. She dreams to be a doctor. She hates Bernadette and she doesn’t trust her unlike faith, which turns out to be the right thing. She refuses to let go of her brother, and keeps pushing him on fighting his definite death, narrator and friend number 2.
Bernadette Vaughn, oh god, this is a hell of a character, she is playful young woman. Obsessed about sex and the secret of controlling men and manipulate them. She has her own ideas and prospective about life, for example she believes the end of the world is coming and she doesn’t want to die virgin. She wants to get what she wants even though it means to betrayal her closest friend. However I can't just blame her for her actions and what she did to Allen, not exactly because Bernadette was influenced by the world of that time, the environment, her mother teachings, after all she is her mother's daughter. Friend number 3.
Allen 18 years, handsome, dreams to be a scientist; he tries to keep his homosexuality low, and hid it away. He ends up unhappy trapped in small town, One of Bernadette cunning victims.
Wesley 17 dreams to be a playwright. I could say he is the one having love affair with Allen. But unlike Allen he manages to get away from this town and he makes his dreams come true. Fav
Stephen Vaughn handsome, sergeant from Korean War, broken from what he had done and seen in the war. He is the one who woke the tears in my eyes. Fav
My favourite paragraphs are for the same characters which are.
“You have shown tremendous courage in letting them go and in letting Archie go, even though you’re not quite sure what it will mean to you. Still, you’re willing to accept the risk and trust something good will come of it. If only I can be half as courageous as you.”
“You are courageous.”
“You’ll find I’m not and when you do, please don’t be disappointed in me.”
“How could I ever be disappointed in you? I couldn’t have done what I did without you. You said this place was a fitting place to say goodbye. Say goodbye to your ghosts then.”
“This is where we’ll say our good-byes. As for them, I’ll take them someplace else, someplace fitting, to a tomb where I can bury them and tell them to go to hell.”
“I don’t want you to leave Port Pompeii.”
“It’s time to leave, Octavia. I think I can do it this time.”
“Will you tell me where you’re going? I’ll write. I’ll have plenty of time to write now that I won’t have my books. I could even visit you sometime.”
His sorrowful eyes hold me in his gaze. “You’ll have to let me go, just as you’re letting these other things go that are important to you.”
Stephen to Octavia.
*****
Finally, my passion wanes enough to allow me to realize how embarrassed I should be. As I am about to retreat and free him from the fury of my kisses, I feel his hand on the back of my head, stopping me from retreating. Suddenly, his lips envelop mine and his tongue slips past my lips, into my mouth, creating an explosion inside of me. I respond to his kiss with a voracious appetite, trying to stuff myself full with hundreds of kisses all at once until his patient mouth finally coaxes mine to relax and enjoy the tenderness with which he kisses me
******
“I’m angry with you, Stephen Vaughn.” I allow the initial pain of speaking those words to wash over me and steel myself for the others. “I’m angry because you chose the easy path instead of the more difficult one. You could have been a hero, one you could have been proud of. You see, you didn’t have to be the hero everyone else thought you should be. The ones came back and overcame their ghost and demons in spite of their experiences and lost limbs, they were heroes. The man you met in Korea didn’t want you to follow him into death. I am sure he wanted you to live so that at least one of your lives could have been fruitful. I am angry because you gave me the courage to face my fears, yet lacked the courage to tackle your own. I am angry because I’ve thought for years that you only had enough courage for one person, and I thought you gave it to me, and that somehow I robbed you of life by taking it.” I draw in a deep breath and exhale the thought into words I should have been spoken too many years ago. “I am angry because you left me even though you knew how much I would miss you; how much I loved you. ”
This is Octavia addressing Stephen.
I cried and I cried and I cried...
Why Stephen?
Why did you quit the fight?!!
Why!!!
My favourite stories in the book are Octavia's and Stephen for sure, along with Wesley's and Allen's story. Both of them ended in a tragic way that made me shade tears.
This book is def worth reading.
Recommended for everyone.
Thank you Elaine D Walsh for this amazing book, although it made me cry, it is a hell of experience.
October 19, 2012
"THREE friends, TWO secrets, ONE lie, and the summer that changed their lives."
This caption definitely attracted my attention and I believed many others. I knew I want to read this book.
The story is mainly told from two point of view, Faith & Octavia, about the lives of the 3 girls. I wouldn’t called them best friend because Bernadette apparently had a character which made most people dislike her right from the start. Faith is one of the pretty and holy girl who had no flaws and is so innocent that she would believed anyone she had just met but at times she seems to be a goody two shoes. Octavia on the other hand is a serious and unattractive girl due to her family background but it can been seen in the book that she envied Faith . Bernadette, a proud girl who came from one of the richest family in the small town, smokes, crazy about boys and loved to do anything that is rebellious.
The story started in 1953 in the bomb shelter in the Vaughn house which is a regular hangout place for the 3 friends and moves along with the boys problem and family problem for each of them. Halfway through the book, the brother of Bernadette, Stephen Vaughn, came home from the Korea war and an affection grew between him and Octavia. I really loved the story between them. Both of them are very lovable characters and I kept on reading because I want to know what will happened to the both of them. I almost teared at the last few pages of the books. (Those tears are welling up in my eyes!) It has such a beautiful ending.
The plot is good and the characters are very real and interesting to read about. However the first half of the book is pretty slow as nothing seems to be happening. I still have no idea what is the secrets and what is the lie. The life in 1973 is only 1 last chapter in the book to wrap up all the loose ends. One problem is keeping up with the book. When I was particularly absorbed in a part of the story, the next chapter suddenly switched the scene to another and the last scene only came back 1 to 2 chapters down and I had already lost my touch on the storyline by then. The flow of the book could be better improved. I think the book would be even better if we could had read from Bernadette’s point of view too.
This book is a pretty light read for its content and I would recommend to anyone who wants a little bit of chick-lit, a little bit of suspense and some romance to read this book as you will be able to find them all in just one book.
Disclaimer: I had received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This caption definitely attracted my attention and I believed many others. I knew I want to read this book.
The story is mainly told from two point of view, Faith & Octavia, about the lives of the 3 girls. I wouldn’t called them best friend because Bernadette apparently had a character which made most people dislike her right from the start. Faith is one of the pretty and holy girl who had no flaws and is so innocent that she would believed anyone she had just met but at times she seems to be a goody two shoes. Octavia on the other hand is a serious and unattractive girl due to her family background but it can been seen in the book that she envied Faith . Bernadette, a proud girl who came from one of the richest family in the small town, smokes, crazy about boys and loved to do anything that is rebellious.
The story started in 1953 in the bomb shelter in the Vaughn house which is a regular hangout place for the 3 friends and moves along with the boys problem and family problem for each of them. Halfway through the book, the brother of Bernadette, Stephen Vaughn, came home from the Korea war and an affection grew between him and Octavia. I really loved the story between them. Both of them are very lovable characters and I kept on reading because I want to know what will happened to the both of them. I almost teared at the last few pages of the books. (Those tears are welling up in my eyes!) It has such a beautiful ending.
The plot is good and the characters are very real and interesting to read about. However the first half of the book is pretty slow as nothing seems to be happening. I still have no idea what is the secrets and what is the lie. The life in 1973 is only 1 last chapter in the book to wrap up all the loose ends. One problem is keeping up with the book. When I was particularly absorbed in a part of the story, the next chapter suddenly switched the scene to another and the last scene only came back 1 to 2 chapters down and I had already lost my touch on the storyline by then. The flow of the book could be better improved. I think the book would be even better if we could had read from Bernadette’s point of view too.
This book is a pretty light read for its content and I would recommend to anyone who wants a little bit of chick-lit, a little bit of suspense and some romance to read this book as you will be able to find them all in just one book.
Disclaimer: I had received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 4, 2012
I had been recommended this book by the author and checked out the ratings and some of the reviews before I committed to reading and then reviewing this book. I started reading it pretty soon after I downloaded it and was initially a little unsure as to how I felt about it. For me, the plot moved quite slow at first, and I am that type of reader who likes to be engrossed from the start and particularly love books that has me frantically turning the pages. Normally I would put a book aside that doesn't instantly grab me and not bother to finish it but I did not want to do that with 'Atomic Summer' because for one thing, the reviews raved about it and I wanted to give it a fair chance but more importantly, even though it was moving slowly, as I kept reading the characters began to come alive for me. Suddenly I found myself truly caring about Faith, Octavia and Bernadette. Not to mention Allan and Wesley. As I read I fell in love with Wesley and then there was Bernadette and the awful things she would say to cringe at but I also felt my heart break just a little for Octavia.
Towards the second half of the book I was indeed furiously turning pages and have just spent the last two hours not putting the book down until I had finished it and I am so glad that I persevered.
The author has an incredible talent of bringing her characters to life. She has created wonderful individuals that will mesmerise you and woven them into a truly memorable, heartwarming yet bittersweet story that will leave you thinking about them for days if not weeks after. Throughout the story, the author kept me guessing and it was this need to find out the answers to many of my questions that kept me reading, and then, wrapping it all up beautifully in the end, she answered all of them and confirmed some I had already guessed.
For a heartwarming, poignant read, I would happily recommend this book. You will find yourself transported back to the 1950's, live their hopes and dreams as if you were there, and return to your present day with fond memories, as if you really lived it.
Towards the second half of the book I was indeed furiously turning pages and have just spent the last two hours not putting the book down until I had finished it and I am so glad that I persevered.
The author has an incredible talent of bringing her characters to life. She has created wonderful individuals that will mesmerise you and woven them into a truly memorable, heartwarming yet bittersweet story that will leave you thinking about them for days if not weeks after. Throughout the story, the author kept me guessing and it was this need to find out the answers to many of my questions that kept me reading, and then, wrapping it all up beautifully in the end, she answered all of them and confirmed some I had already guessed.
For a heartwarming, poignant read, I would happily recommend this book. You will find yourself transported back to the 1950's, live their hopes and dreams as if you were there, and return to your present day with fond memories, as if you really lived it.
June 19, 2012
This book is a fun summer read. It’s one of those stories that you can sit by the pool or on the beach or anywhere you can curl up for a few hours and escape for some R&R reading enjoyment. The first lines intrigued me and from there I kept turning the pages to see what came next and I was not disappointed.
The story opens in 1973 with a brief flashback from Faith, who is one of the main characters. She is traveling back to her hometown for a reunion where she will be reunited with her girlhood friends in the small town in upstate New York where she grew up. Something happened that summer that changed her life and the lives of her friends. The way the writer sets up the opening scene made me want to find out. In other words, I was hooked! I didn’t have to give it a few chapters to see if I was interested in turning the pages.
The story immediately jumps to 1953. Bernadette, who is Faith’s best friend, is holding court in her family’s bomb shelter. It is 1953 for goodness sakes and the communist “red scare” is in full flight, so what a perfect place for teenagers to hang out, cool off, grow up and grow bored. Bernadette is obsessed with boys. They aren’t quite as enamored with her and who can blame them. She is a narcissist you just want to reach in to the pages and slap. I love it when a character drums up emotion in me, both good and bad. Well, Bernadette doesn’t hide her interest for Faith’s boyfriend which sets up a nice conflict between these supposed best friends. But Faith is too naïve and too good of a friend to do what I would have done which is punch Bernadette right in the kisser. Then there’s the ugly duckling third wheel friend Octavia who you find yourself rooting for as she struggles to step out of the dark shadows of her troubled family.
Besides the story’s main characters Faith, Bernadette and Octavia (which BTW, the point of view shifts between Faith and Octavia which makes for interesting story telling), there is the over the top, self proclaimed southern belle matriarch of Bernadette’s family, giving the reader insight as to why Bernadette is the overbearing girl she is. And wait until you meet the mysterious Reverend Flews. Add two teenage boys to this stew of a story to spice it. There’s a lot to taste as you slurp from the author’s spoon and find yourself trying to figure out all of the ingredients that go into this coming of age story.
The author’s tag line is “THREE friends, TWO secrets, ONE lie, and the summer that changed their lives”. The author leaves breadcrumbs to follow one secret while she slowly reveals another and the euphoric and heart wrenching impact of each one. And the lie that becomes blatantly clear early on what it is and who is telling it and the entire community gets sucked in to it. “Oh, what a tangled web we weave, when we practice to deceive”. It is deliciously tangled and the next best seller in my eyes.
The story opens in 1973 with a brief flashback from Faith, who is one of the main characters. She is traveling back to her hometown for a reunion where she will be reunited with her girlhood friends in the small town in upstate New York where she grew up. Something happened that summer that changed her life and the lives of her friends. The way the writer sets up the opening scene made me want to find out. In other words, I was hooked! I didn’t have to give it a few chapters to see if I was interested in turning the pages.
The story immediately jumps to 1953. Bernadette, who is Faith’s best friend, is holding court in her family’s bomb shelter. It is 1953 for goodness sakes and the communist “red scare” is in full flight, so what a perfect place for teenagers to hang out, cool off, grow up and grow bored. Bernadette is obsessed with boys. They aren’t quite as enamored with her and who can blame them. She is a narcissist you just want to reach in to the pages and slap. I love it when a character drums up emotion in me, both good and bad. Well, Bernadette doesn’t hide her interest for Faith’s boyfriend which sets up a nice conflict between these supposed best friends. But Faith is too naïve and too good of a friend to do what I would have done which is punch Bernadette right in the kisser. Then there’s the ugly duckling third wheel friend Octavia who you find yourself rooting for as she struggles to step out of the dark shadows of her troubled family.
Besides the story’s main characters Faith, Bernadette and Octavia (which BTW, the point of view shifts between Faith and Octavia which makes for interesting story telling), there is the over the top, self proclaimed southern belle matriarch of Bernadette’s family, giving the reader insight as to why Bernadette is the overbearing girl she is. And wait until you meet the mysterious Reverend Flews. Add two teenage boys to this stew of a story to spice it. There’s a lot to taste as you slurp from the author’s spoon and find yourself trying to figure out all of the ingredients that go into this coming of age story.
The author’s tag line is “THREE friends, TWO secrets, ONE lie, and the summer that changed their lives”. The author leaves breadcrumbs to follow one secret while she slowly reveals another and the euphoric and heart wrenching impact of each one. And the lie that becomes blatantly clear early on what it is and who is telling it and the entire community gets sucked in to it. “Oh, what a tangled web we weave, when we practice to deceive”. It is deliciously tangled and the next best seller in my eyes.
September 27, 2013
I very much enjoyed this book. It’s rare when you get a story about teens that doesn’t have zombies, vampires, or supernatural stuff in it, and while I enjoy those types of books, this story, set in the 1950′s in the small town of Port Pompeii, is a very satisfying read on its own. It immerses the reader in another time and place and brings that place, and the quirky, dramatic, and sometimes scary people in it, to life.
While this book is about three sixteen year olds, it really isn’t written for kids. The story is part charming and wistful, reminiscent of a simpler, more innocent age, and part dark and sinister, reminding us that even though we think of bygone times as tranquil and happy, the same fears, perversities, needs and desires lurked beneath the status-quo surface. Walsh does a great job of exploring these elements in the story.
I loved the dialogue in this book, I loved the way each character had her (and his) own unique story. The town of Port Pompeii itself is a character, and descriptions of the area were well written and not overdone. Most of all, the writing is honest. And what I mean by that is, even though some parts of the book may make some readers a little squeamish, Walsh went with her gut and wrote them anyway, which takes courage as a writer. She tells it like it is–this may be set in the 1950′s, but the girls in this story deal with real issues and not all of them are pretty.
The only reason I didn’t give this a 5-star is because I struggled with deciding whether I should or not, and when that happens, I have to go with my gut. I very much liked the book, but it was just a little long and had some minor issues that made me decide to give a little lower of a ranking than 5-stars. But definitely read this one. It is not for younger kids, older teens can probably handle it. This is more of an adult book, and a very well done adult book it is.
Nik's Picks Book Reviews
www.nikki-bennett.com
(The author provided me a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.)
While this book is about three sixteen year olds, it really isn’t written for kids. The story is part charming and wistful, reminiscent of a simpler, more innocent age, and part dark and sinister, reminding us that even though we think of bygone times as tranquil and happy, the same fears, perversities, needs and desires lurked beneath the status-quo surface. Walsh does a great job of exploring these elements in the story.
I loved the dialogue in this book, I loved the way each character had her (and his) own unique story. The town of Port Pompeii itself is a character, and descriptions of the area were well written and not overdone. Most of all, the writing is honest. And what I mean by that is, even though some parts of the book may make some readers a little squeamish, Walsh went with her gut and wrote them anyway, which takes courage as a writer. She tells it like it is–this may be set in the 1950′s, but the girls in this story deal with real issues and not all of them are pretty.
The only reason I didn’t give this a 5-star is because I struggled with deciding whether I should or not, and when that happens, I have to go with my gut. I very much liked the book, but it was just a little long and had some minor issues that made me decide to give a little lower of a ranking than 5-stars. But definitely read this one. It is not for younger kids, older teens can probably handle it. This is more of an adult book, and a very well done adult book it is.
Nik's Picks Book Reviews
www.nikki-bennett.com
(The author provided me a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.)
October 10, 2012
Captivating and enjoyable!
Author Elaine Walsh paints a vivid image on each page through a detailed depiction of character and setting in this 50s coming-of-age tale.
The experiences, dreams, and fears of the cast of young teens will hit home with readers who have lived through the same exploratory—and sometimes confusing—period in their own lives. I could easily relate to the characters and even recognized specific traits in a few of my former school friends! Emotions run the gamut in this tender story of friendship, and certain scenes tug at our heartstrings. Be forewarned.
Against the backdrop of small-town Port Pompeii, the distinct personalities of the characters come to life and simple events appear all the more dramatic. I was especially impressed with the depth of the historical descriptions. From bomb shelters to verandahs, from bars to churches, I could visualize each setting as though I’d been there before.
Events move fast in Atomic Summer, and the story of young interconnected lives ends too soon, but the characters will linger with me for a long time. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
Author Elaine Walsh paints a vivid image on each page through a detailed depiction of character and setting in this 50s coming-of-age tale.
The experiences, dreams, and fears of the cast of young teens will hit home with readers who have lived through the same exploratory—and sometimes confusing—period in their own lives. I could easily relate to the characters and even recognized specific traits in a few of my former school friends! Emotions run the gamut in this tender story of friendship, and certain scenes tug at our heartstrings. Be forewarned.
Against the backdrop of small-town Port Pompeii, the distinct personalities of the characters come to life and simple events appear all the more dramatic. I was especially impressed with the depth of the historical descriptions. From bomb shelters to verandahs, from bars to churches, I could visualize each setting as though I’d been there before.
Events move fast in Atomic Summer, and the story of young interconnected lives ends too soon, but the characters will linger with me for a long time. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
November 27, 2012
I was only five years old in the summer of 1953. I remember hearing about the Rosenbergs being executed but I was too young to understand what they had done. Everyone was worried about nuclear war. We had air raid drills at school that scared me to death. Some folks built bomb shelters.
The three girls who are the main characters of this story are sixteen when the story begins. Bernadette is the spoiled, self-centered daughter of a Southern Belle wannabe who has changed her name to Savannah and refers to her home as Tara. Octavia has vague dreams of becoming a medical researcher but her life is consumed with the care of her invalid brother. Faith just wants to marry her boyfriend Allen and raise a family.
Twenty years later, the opening of a friend's play brings them together again and they see how their lives have turned out differently than the way they planned them. This book deals with many themes, life and death, religion and God, war and peace, and appearances and reality. It should appeal to anyone who remembers that period in history as well as those who don't.
The three girls who are the main characters of this story are sixteen when the story begins. Bernadette is the spoiled, self-centered daughter of a Southern Belle wannabe who has changed her name to Savannah and refers to her home as Tara. Octavia has vague dreams of becoming a medical researcher but her life is consumed with the care of her invalid brother. Faith just wants to marry her boyfriend Allen and raise a family.
Twenty years later, the opening of a friend's play brings them together again and they see how their lives have turned out differently than the way they planned them. This book deals with many themes, life and death, religion and God, war and peace, and appearances and reality. It should appeal to anyone who remembers that period in history as well as those who don't.
May 24, 2015
So, i was tired of reading my usual mystery or horror books, so i decided to read something completely different. Being a manly man, i rarely venture into books considered 'chick lit', but this one caught my attention because of the era in which it's set, the 1950s. Set during the cold war, when we all were convinced that nuclear bombs were poised to fall on us any minute and there was a communist behind every bush. It made us all a little crazy. Anyway, this is a coming of age book about 3 teenage girls growing up in a small town in 1953; their relationships with each other, with the boys that interested them, with God, with family. I got totally involved in it all. The characters were believable and sympathetic and the plot lines were intricate and nicely unraveled. I really have nothing at all bad to say about this book, which is rare for me. This was really masterful writing.
January 27, 2025
A wonderful read! Every once in a while, I pick up a book that appears simple, requires no thinking, and is a time killer. That is why I picked up this book, plus it was a free read. Then I got blown out of the water. The historical background, lay out, and character descriptions were not delegated to their own little chapters. They were spread with the progression of the story, and I liked that spread very much. It was unique.
I expected to read about Allen and Faith falling in love, then he would dump her and the rest of the story would be about her broken heart. My 'expectations' changed over and over and over again I say. You have written quite a book, Ms. Walsh. Thank you, dear author!
I expected to read about Allen and Faith falling in love, then he would dump her and the rest of the story would be about her broken heart. My 'expectations' changed over and over and over again I say. You have written quite a book, Ms. Walsh. Thank you, dear author!
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July 22, 2012I looooved it! This book will go down as one of the best summer reads in history.I could not put it down. Elaine had the gift to put me inside the book.To "see "that wonderfull small town and all of the people who live in it!I will miss you Faith,Octavia and yes ,even you Bernadette...all of you.....
Helen Hixon
Helen Hixon
October 17, 2012
I must admit, I wanted to strangle Bernadette throughout most of the book. I also wished I could knock some sense into Faith and make her see what was so plainly obvious to the rest of us. I would be lying if I said I didn't guess virtually everything that happened. The only future I really hoped I was wrong about was Octavia. I definitely felt for her. It was a great book and I enjoyed it enough to read it on my tiny phone.
February 23, 2013
This is one of the best "coming-of-age" novels I've read in a long time. The characters, some of whom you grow to love (Octavia and Wesley, in my case) and others whom you just love to hate (*ahem* Bernadette *cough, cough*), are extremely potent. The story builds slowly, and although I had imagined different plot twits and a totally different ending, I found this to be an enjoyable read. Highly recommended!
November 8, 2012
So when is the movie? The characters in this book were wonderful. The story had me hooked from the very beginning. Elaine Walsh lands us in 1953 with a group of teenage girls-the bossy rich girl, the bookish girl, and the sweet, pretty girl who lives over a bar, then she adds the Korean War, nuclear paranoia, and religion. It's a coming of age story that is well worth reading. Excellent!
February 16, 2014
It is June 1953, and the lives of three 16 years old friends living in Port Pompeii NYC is told from the point of view of Faith the gullible and Catholic, and Octavia the socially-awkward with family responsibilities. Then there is Bernadette the last of the trio of friends.
August 5, 2012
I truly enjoyed the story. Loved getting into the minds of some of the characters. They were multi-dimensional. Well done!
October 1, 2012
The end of the book made reading the first part worth the time. This is another free download from Kindle.
February 21, 2013
When I saw the description Atomic Summer, I honestly thought it would interest me, and for the most part it did, so four stars.
October 2, 2013
Atomic Summer is a beautifully tragic coming-of-age story written by Elaine Walsh. Her words draw the reader into the world of 1953 where life should be simple and fun. In actuality, it is far from it. Ms. Walsh introduces us to Faith, Octavia and Bernadette, three teenagers trying to find their hopes and dreams in Port Pompeii, New York. The entire book is from the perspectives of Faith and Octavia; who have very different beliefs but remain loyal friends.
I found so much tragedy in the book; however, I, also, found hope, healing and forgiveness. Ms. Walsh’s characters were so easy to like and empathize. Well, except for Bernadette who has to be one of the most self-centered characters I have ever seen. I tried to feel sorry for her but I just couldn’t. All of my sympathy and hope went to Faith and Octavia who were such tragic and beautiful heroines. Both faced difficult life-changing decisions and experienced loss that may be too hard to survive.
The young men in this novel, also, face tragedy and life-altering choices. Stephen just breaks your heart. His character shows how awful war really is and how hard it is to face reality again. I thought Ms. Walsh did a wonderful job convening his pain. Allen is someone who I feel free less sympathy for. His secret pain was a very taboo subject for the 1950s. However, I felt he was a coward while his best friend, Wesley, was able to rise and accept his own identity.
Atomic Summer is, also, a good reflection of the paranoia of the 1950s. Communism, atomic bombs and bomb shelters showed how people thought and reacted. Every reaction tended to be an overreaction. Faith is a prime example of that overreaction. She was so sensitive and easily influenced during that summer. She learned some very hard lessons. The 1950s, to me, represented, on the surface, innocence and simplicity. However, as you begin to dig deeper into Port Pompeii you will see darkness and complexity; not just innocence, youth and belief.
The ending, in my opinion, brought hope and healing to the characters who needed it and wanted it. They were finally ready to face their life and not wallow in the past. Overall, Atomic Summer is a wonderful book that I highly recommend.
I found so much tragedy in the book; however, I, also, found hope, healing and forgiveness. Ms. Walsh’s characters were so easy to like and empathize. Well, except for Bernadette who has to be one of the most self-centered characters I have ever seen. I tried to feel sorry for her but I just couldn’t. All of my sympathy and hope went to Faith and Octavia who were such tragic and beautiful heroines. Both faced difficult life-changing decisions and experienced loss that may be too hard to survive.
The young men in this novel, also, face tragedy and life-altering choices. Stephen just breaks your heart. His character shows how awful war really is and how hard it is to face reality again. I thought Ms. Walsh did a wonderful job convening his pain. Allen is someone who I feel free less sympathy for. His secret pain was a very taboo subject for the 1950s. However, I felt he was a coward while his best friend, Wesley, was able to rise and accept his own identity.
Atomic Summer is, also, a good reflection of the paranoia of the 1950s. Communism, atomic bombs and bomb shelters showed how people thought and reacted. Every reaction tended to be an overreaction. Faith is a prime example of that overreaction. She was so sensitive and easily influenced during that summer. She learned some very hard lessons. The 1950s, to me, represented, on the surface, innocence and simplicity. However, as you begin to dig deeper into Port Pompeii you will see darkness and complexity; not just innocence, youth and belief.
The ending, in my opinion, brought hope and healing to the characters who needed it and wanted it. They were finally ready to face their life and not wallow in the past. Overall, Atomic Summer is a wonderful book that I highly recommend.
January 1, 2013
This is a story about growing up from a small town. Things that seem so very important to you, are specks of dust in the sea of life. Yet we cling to events as major milestones, because they are. At least to those living them they are.
Most of the characters in this book revel in the we are getting out of dodge and see the world thought patterns, yet as so often happens of course, the ones who squawk the loudest are the ones who stay all their lives.
The story could have actually been based on real events. And, the characters could have been real as well, but even if they are, one of them just seemed too naive to be believed. I kept wanting to say REALLY?
As these people aged, I didn't feel their maturity gained any footage. I wanted something more to happen, something that I wasn't expecting, but it just didn't. I think the author has great potential and should have allowed herself to really embellish the story and characters. There didn't seem to be a real plot to the story, just a story. No turns you didn't see coming, as the author told a little too much for you not to read between the lines. So the surprise was never a surprise.
It was not a book I couldn't put down, and not one I would ever read twice. If you like stories of growing up, and how that impacts your future, then you might like this book. I thought the story was okay, but I would not recommend it as a good read. I would like to read the author's next book though, as I feel she has the ability to really put on a show if she lets her characters develop, and sets the twists and turns stage without opening the curtain part way before raising it.
Most of the characters in this book revel in the we are getting out of dodge and see the world thought patterns, yet as so often happens of course, the ones who squawk the loudest are the ones who stay all their lives.
The story could have actually been based on real events. And, the characters could have been real as well, but even if they are, one of them just seemed too naive to be believed. I kept wanting to say REALLY?
As these people aged, I didn't feel their maturity gained any footage. I wanted something more to happen, something that I wasn't expecting, but it just didn't. I think the author has great potential and should have allowed herself to really embellish the story and characters. There didn't seem to be a real plot to the story, just a story. No turns you didn't see coming, as the author told a little too much for you not to read between the lines. So the surprise was never a surprise.
It was not a book I couldn't put down, and not one I would ever read twice. If you like stories of growing up, and how that impacts your future, then you might like this book. I thought the story was okay, but I would not recommend it as a good read. I would like to read the author's next book though, as I feel she has the ability to really put on a show if she lets her characters develop, and sets the twists and turns stage without opening the curtain part way before raising it.
November 22, 2013
Atomic Summer by Elaine D. Walsh was a heavier-hitter than I thought that it would be. Despite it’s coming-of-age premise, it deals with a lot of heavy topics like suicide, religion, homosexuality and abuse.
Twenty years later, Faith and Octavia recount the summer of 1953 in a small town in upstate New York that was a turning point in both of their lives. Faith’s boyfriend Allen is seemingly repulsed by her, and she can’t figure out why. Octavia is the wall-flower who doesn’t have the confidence to pursue great things for herself. Their friend, Bernadette, is boy-crazy and opinionated, and her big mouth and devious mind causes a lot of guilt and pain.
Walsh really brought the characters to life — they were unique and colourful, and they each had a lively personality of their own. Faith is incredibly naive, which is what leads her in her decisions. Savannah Vaughn, Bernadette’s mother, is bold, fake, and vain, but she brings a lot of life to Atomic Summer. The three girls act like typical teenagers, but they are 16 and puberty was years behind them, and they should have left it there.
For a short novel, the plot was surprisingly complex and packed with a lot of serious issues.
For the rest of this review, and more of my reviews, go to: www.bookwookie.ca
Twenty years later, Faith and Octavia recount the summer of 1953 in a small town in upstate New York that was a turning point in both of their lives. Faith’s boyfriend Allen is seemingly repulsed by her, and she can’t figure out why. Octavia is the wall-flower who doesn’t have the confidence to pursue great things for herself. Their friend, Bernadette, is boy-crazy and opinionated, and her big mouth and devious mind causes a lot of guilt and pain.
Walsh really brought the characters to life — they were unique and colourful, and they each had a lively personality of their own. Faith is incredibly naive, which is what leads her in her decisions. Savannah Vaughn, Bernadette’s mother, is bold, fake, and vain, but she brings a lot of life to Atomic Summer. The three girls act like typical teenagers, but they are 16 and puberty was years behind them, and they should have left it there.
For a short novel, the plot was surprisingly complex and packed with a lot of serious issues.
For the rest of this review, and more of my reviews, go to: www.bookwookie.ca
December 10, 2012
I like this book, but it wasn't was I expected. The relationship of the three girls is well-explored and interesting. The three characters are all quite different, and Walsh does a good job of painting vivid pictures of them through their idiosyncrasies and actions.
From the title I really thought there would be more background on the cultural effects of the cold war and the fears of the bomb on society. In fact it is really centered more on the girls curiosity about sex and their conflicting guilt intwined with their Catholic faith. Some actions of the characters are not believable, in particular the pseudo-Southern-belle matron and how the characters react to her ridiculous stunts.
While I am somewhat critical of some parts of this story, I did enjoy the read and would not dissuade anyone from reading, and enjoying the story. Especially those for whom the early 50s is a curious time. The authors states that a percentage of the proceeds goes to cancer research.
From the title I really thought there would be more background on the cultural effects of the cold war and the fears of the bomb on society. In fact it is really centered more on the girls curiosity about sex and their conflicting guilt intwined with their Catholic faith. Some actions of the characters are not believable, in particular the pseudo-Southern-belle matron and how the characters react to her ridiculous stunts.
While I am somewhat critical of some parts of this story, I did enjoy the read and would not dissuade anyone from reading, and enjoying the story. Especially those for whom the early 50s is a curious time. The authors states that a percentage of the proceeds goes to cancer research.
April 9, 2013
This was a Amazon Kindle cheapie (it may have even been free).
I am teetering between 4 and 5 stars. I really enjoyed this book, even though I put it down a couple of times for lengthy periods. It reminds me of 'Stand by me' and similar books. All the characters are ordinary people you have met whilst growing up, but they all have complicated lives and backgrounds at the same time.
I particularly liked the character of Octavia and the dynamics between her, her family, friends and the community.
The only bit that let it down, I think was the end ... it covered the ending of the events of 1953 a bit too quickly and superficially. I want to know what happened to Octavia's mother.
This book touched on some disturbing and complex concepts, including war, suicide, homosexuality, church, sex, innocence, relationships, grief and despair. However, I did not come a way with a bad feeling ... more one of acceptance.
I am teetering between 4 and 5 stars. I really enjoyed this book, even though I put it down a couple of times for lengthy periods. It reminds me of 'Stand by me' and similar books. All the characters are ordinary people you have met whilst growing up, but they all have complicated lives and backgrounds at the same time.
I particularly liked the character of Octavia and the dynamics between her, her family, friends and the community.
The only bit that let it down, I think was the end ... it covered the ending of the events of 1953 a bit too quickly and superficially. I want to know what happened to Octavia's mother.
This book touched on some disturbing and complex concepts, including war, suicide, homosexuality, church, sex, innocence, relationships, grief and despair. However, I did not come a way with a bad feeling ... more one of acceptance.
March 9, 2019
Nostalgic times with lots of social issues.
December 1, 2024
Fantastic and easy read. I really enjoyed the character development as the story unfolded and found myself rooting for both Faith and Octavia. And of course, Bernadette was the character I loved to hate all the way until the end. :) I appreciated the history lesson and learning about the Erie Canal and the Korean War and what life might have been like in the age of the real threat of nuclear war. Highly recommend this novel if you’re looking for a story that will make you both smile and cry. Definitely worthy of a movie!
April 16, 2021
The Booker is really fantastic
September 17, 2014
This book felt very much like The Virgin Suicides to me. I didn't love it, but I didn't hate it. The characters were pretty unlikeable, although I loved how Bernadette was written. She was so wicked and manipulative, definitely the most interesting character in the bunch. The multi-perspective kind of threw me off, I don't really like books like that but I decided to give it a try. I also felt like the prank on the town was kind of understated...I only realized what the prank was supposed to be when there were 50 pages left and I still thought it hadn't happened yet. Oh well, it was an easy read.
December 9, 2012
I thought this book was mediocre. I wish I had stopped reading it rather than completed it. I grew up in the 50s also, but we certainly didn't lecture each other as friends about virginity or losing it or discussed confession or religion the way these friends did. I found it all rather lecturing at times rather than literature. I kept hoping for a more interesting ending, but didn't find it.
I will mention that the book was free on Amazon.com. I guess you get what you pay for.
I will mention that the book was free on Amazon.com. I guess you get what you pay for.
July 1, 2014
This is the most amazing book! I love love love it. The characters just come alive. I found myself really relating to Octavia and mostly Stephen.
The book takes place in the summer of 1953 and really shows the innocence of the characters as well as the fear of Americans during this time. (please note the reviews I leave are for myself, so they are not really detailed).
The book takes place in the summer of 1953 and really shows the innocence of the characters as well as the fear of Americans during this time. (please note the reviews I leave are for myself, so they are not really detailed).
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September 18, 2013I was captivated from beginning to end, I truly enjoyed the way the story weaved in and out of characters. Just when I was getting a little comfortable with where the story was going, something surprising would happen, great read,
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