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The Twice-Lived Summer of Bluebell Jones
On her thirteenth birthday, Blue makes a desperate wish. To be transformed into a cool, confident teenager. Enter Red, appearing from nowhere like a wacky fairy godmother. She's only visible to Blue - in fact, she IS Blue, but a year older. With Red by her side to guide her, Blue can avoid all the gruesome embarrassments! But her future self causes a heap of crazy trouble - and there are dark secrets she's not telling...
240 pages, Paperback
First published August 2, 2012
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319 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
August 14, 2012
This review was originally published at Fluttering Butterflies
There are some books that come in and completely steal your heart. The Twice-Lived Summer of Bluebell Jones by Susie Day is such a book for me. It's not a very thick book, it didn't take me long to read it. But boy, will this book stay with me.
Right from the very first page as we are introduced to Bluebell Jones, I was immediately drawn into the story. It's Bluebell's 13th birthday, and she's rushing through a fairground, holding her birthday cake. And as she passes she witnesses this absolutely tragic, life-changing event. And this book is all about choices, starting with this first huge choice of whether or not Bluebell will allow her fear and the emotion of witnessing this event change her, make her afraid and less confident.
Things get complicated on a completely different level when, while blowing out her birthday candles, Bluebell makes a wish and before her, her future self appears in the form of beautiful, confident, older Red. Who seems to know just what Bluebell should say and do in order for this summer to be the best ever. She gives her the inside information on a cool crowd of teenagers who become her close circle of friends. But things aren't always as they seem. What wish did Red make to end up reliving a summer she's already known?
I love how this book manages to deal with so many things in such a short period of time. I loved the importance of family and friendship in this novel. Blue makes some lovely friends in Fozzie and Dan and especially Merlin, the mysterious magician. But she also has this amazing family, with an older sister and parents who are loveable and supportive (with excellent taste in music!)
But it's also about Bluebell's journey to being confident and taking chances. I loved seeing her breaking out of her shell as the presence of Red seems to make things easier for Blue to do things she wouldn't normally. I loved the subtle message about being comfortable with who you are and knowing what's important in your life.
This book is utterly wonderful. I finished it past my bedtime, and just lay there, with tears trickling down my face remembering the odd beauty of the words I'd just read and wanting to hold onto the feelings that came with reading this book for as long as possible. Now, even days after finishing it, my mind will sometimes wonder back to Bluebell's story and tears will come to my eyes. I really can't recommend this book enough.
There are some books that come in and completely steal your heart. The Twice-Lived Summer of Bluebell Jones by Susie Day is such a book for me. It's not a very thick book, it didn't take me long to read it. But boy, will this book stay with me.
Right from the very first page as we are introduced to Bluebell Jones, I was immediately drawn into the story. It's Bluebell's 13th birthday, and she's rushing through a fairground, holding her birthday cake. And as she passes she witnesses this absolutely tragic, life-changing event. And this book is all about choices, starting with this first huge choice of whether or not Bluebell will allow her fear and the emotion of witnessing this event change her, make her afraid and less confident.
Things get complicated on a completely different level when, while blowing out her birthday candles, Bluebell makes a wish and before her, her future self appears in the form of beautiful, confident, older Red. Who seems to know just what Bluebell should say and do in order for this summer to be the best ever. She gives her the inside information on a cool crowd of teenagers who become her close circle of friends. But things aren't always as they seem. What wish did Red make to end up reliving a summer she's already known?
I love how this book manages to deal with so many things in such a short period of time. I loved the importance of family and friendship in this novel. Blue makes some lovely friends in Fozzie and Dan and especially Merlin, the mysterious magician. But she also has this amazing family, with an older sister and parents who are loveable and supportive (with excellent taste in music!)
But it's also about Bluebell's journey to being confident and taking chances. I loved seeing her breaking out of her shell as the presence of Red seems to make things easier for Blue to do things she wouldn't normally. I loved the subtle message about being comfortable with who you are and knowing what's important in your life.
This book is utterly wonderful. I finished it past my bedtime, and just lay there, with tears trickling down my face remembering the odd beauty of the words I'd just read and wanting to hold onto the feelings that came with reading this book for as long as possible. Now, even days after finishing it, my mind will sometimes wonder back to Bluebell's story and tears will come to my eyes. I really can't recommend this book enough.
October 21, 2015
Review by Cerys 8:3
The Twice-Lived Summer of Bluebell Jones (Susie Day) is a fabulous book about the twists and turns of teenage life, and how much we really do have. In this jam-packed book, Blue, accidently summons her 14 year old self, Red, back from the future! Red is everything Blue wanted to be, cool, popular, and she even has a road map of the year! But Red has her own secrets, ones that she won’t even share with herself…
My favourite character is Merlin, with his huge top hat, and my favourite part is when Bluebell throws up all over Fozzie’s boots, but its Red’s reaction I like the most, as she just gets so angry at Blue! The 3rd person POV is fabulous for seeing what Blue actually is doing, and giving away some of Blue’s feelings without giving it all away.
The author Susie Day gives a real bubbliness to the wonderful characters (especially Red, and Fozzie!) through beautiful descriptions. Her plot is full of unexpected changes, and the ending was so unpredictable it completely shocked me!
On the whole, I loved this wonderful book, and would recommend it to lovers of YA fiction, and romance. Such a fantastic read for anyone, really, but it could help with teen life a little! Hope you enjoy the book!
The Twice-Lived Summer of Bluebell Jones (Susie Day) is a fabulous book about the twists and turns of teenage life, and how much we really do have. In this jam-packed book, Blue, accidently summons her 14 year old self, Red, back from the future! Red is everything Blue wanted to be, cool, popular, and she even has a road map of the year! But Red has her own secrets, ones that she won’t even share with herself…
My favourite character is Merlin, with his huge top hat, and my favourite part is when Bluebell throws up all over Fozzie’s boots, but its Red’s reaction I like the most, as she just gets so angry at Blue! The 3rd person POV is fabulous for seeing what Blue actually is doing, and giving away some of Blue’s feelings without giving it all away.
The author Susie Day gives a real bubbliness to the wonderful characters (especially Red, and Fozzie!) through beautiful descriptions. Her plot is full of unexpected changes, and the ending was so unpredictable it completely shocked me!
On the whole, I loved this wonderful book, and would recommend it to lovers of YA fiction, and romance. Such a fantastic read for anyone, really, but it could help with teen life a little! Hope you enjoy the book!
September 28, 2020
What fits autumn?
Yes, a story setting in a fairground; a live music band, roller-coaster, and the beach.
Much spooky feels?
The story starts off slow and steady. Personally, I did not like the first pages, thinking the plot is boring and cliche. However, it has well-written chapters. The book is all about thirteen years old girl named, Bluebell and her summer at Penkerry fairground. As she is as terrified and insecure about herself, she wished someone would rescue her. Magically, Red, her future self appeared in her life. Up to this point, I believe the story would go like they would fix some errors and having fun together. However, the future self, Red did not tell her everything. Red helps Blue to enjoy her summer with beloved families and friends, and the first boy whom she had a crush on. What will happen to Red? And Blue? Some major points in the future can't be fixed even if you lived twice. Find out more by reading!
Yes, a story setting in a fairground; a live music band, roller-coaster, and the beach.
Much spooky feels?
The story starts off slow and steady. Personally, I did not like the first pages, thinking the plot is boring and cliche. However, it has well-written chapters. The book is all about thirteen years old girl named, Bluebell and her summer at Penkerry fairground. As she is as terrified and insecure about herself, she wished someone would rescue her. Magically, Red, her future self appeared in her life. Up to this point, I believe the story would go like they would fix some errors and having fun together. However, the future self, Red did not tell her everything. Red helps Blue to enjoy her summer with beloved families and friends, and the first boy whom she had a crush on. What will happen to Red? And Blue? Some major points in the future can't be fixed even if you lived twice. Find out more by reading!
September 6, 2012
I have never ready a book by Susie Day before and I now feel I should kick myself over it. I feel like I am really late to a great party!
Susie Day is a very descriptive writer who captures the feel of the Great British seaside vacation with clarity and nostalgia. I felt like my senses had been taken hostage, as I drooled at the imaginary smell of fish and chips on the beach and longed for a donut. I could visualise every part of the story with my senses kicking into over drive.
The book begins with a very dramatic scene that leaves you a little panicky. I honestly didn't know which way the story was about to go. I then sat wondering why the scene had been included, and it wasn't until half way through the book that I realised it was pivotal to the plot.
I loved Bluebell and her family, because I felt like I knew them. They were bits and pieces of many families I know and I was completely at home in their presence. Yet there was also a uniqueness and quirkiness to their personalities. Imagine Bluebell's mum; heavily pregnant and still drumming in a rock band. Fantastic! Let no woman feel unable to conquer the world and have a baby at the same time!
I adored the budding relationship between Tiger and her new girlfriend, Caitlin. It was just beautiful to watch Tiger change and grow up as she embraced her new found love. It was also sweet to watch Bluebell experience her first kiss with Merlin. This relationship really made me sigh with happiness, as I did know someone very similar to Merlin when I was younger; it brought back happy memories.
I did feel the book should come with some kind of warning, because you will need tissues by the end of it. I had a feeling half way through the book that I might not want to read the ending, yet I was even more devastated when I got there and realised it wasn't the ending I had forseen. This book reminded me in parts of films such as Big, Back To The Future and 16 Wishes. It was all of those films and yet it was none of them, because it really was unique in itself.
This book is simply gorgeous; an innocent coming of age story that carries you on an emotional journey. The writing is beautiful yet poignant, engaging yet very real. A perfect summer read.
If you haven't gathered yet from this review, I really really loved this book. It is so realistic and British yet wearing a generous layer of magical realism. Such a wonderful combination. I honestly can't wait to read more books by Susie Day.
Susie Day is a very descriptive writer who captures the feel of the Great British seaside vacation with clarity and nostalgia. I felt like my senses had been taken hostage, as I drooled at the imaginary smell of fish and chips on the beach and longed for a donut. I could visualise every part of the story with my senses kicking into over drive.
The book begins with a very dramatic scene that leaves you a little panicky. I honestly didn't know which way the story was about to go. I then sat wondering why the scene had been included, and it wasn't until half way through the book that I realised it was pivotal to the plot.
I loved Bluebell and her family, because I felt like I knew them. They were bits and pieces of many families I know and I was completely at home in their presence. Yet there was also a uniqueness and quirkiness to their personalities. Imagine Bluebell's mum; heavily pregnant and still drumming in a rock band. Fantastic! Let no woman feel unable to conquer the world and have a baby at the same time!
I adored the budding relationship between Tiger and her new girlfriend, Caitlin. It was just beautiful to watch Tiger change and grow up as she embraced her new found love. It was also sweet to watch Bluebell experience her first kiss with Merlin. This relationship really made me sigh with happiness, as I did know someone very similar to Merlin when I was younger; it brought back happy memories.
I did feel the book should come with some kind of warning, because you will need tissues by the end of it. I had a feeling half way through the book that I might not want to read the ending, yet I was even more devastated when I got there and realised it wasn't the ending I had forseen. This book reminded me in parts of films such as Big, Back To The Future and 16 Wishes. It was all of those films and yet it was none of them, because it really was unique in itself.
This book is simply gorgeous; an innocent coming of age story that carries you on an emotional journey. The writing is beautiful yet poignant, engaging yet very real. A perfect summer read.
If you haven't gathered yet from this review, I really really loved this book. It is so realistic and British yet wearing a generous layer of magical realism. Such a wonderful combination. I honestly can't wait to read more books by Susie Day.
May 4, 2020
An excellent light read. Upon reading the first 50 pages, I couldn’t quite grasp on what the author was trying to convey to me (the reader). I thought this was one of those books about a girl who is sick of herself and wants to be like one of those cool kids who do magic, music, etc. But after reading the book again, this time with the help of a few cups of tea, I started to enjoy the flow of the book. It was so much more than a girl who wants to create a better version of herself (in this case, wanting to be the future her) It’s about a girl who is in a journey of accepting that the roads we imagined may not be straight sometimes, that living your present life to the fullest is better than worrying about what the future holds, that sometimes the moment that gives us butterflies is the result of the spontaneous decision we made. Although I did predict the ending of the book correctly since there were plenty of clues, it still gives me chills.
July 22, 2012
Bluebell Jones makes a thirteenth birthday wish that conjures up her 14-year-old self, and life will never be the same again!
Red seems to be everything that Blue isn't and longs to be, so with her very own expert to guide her into becoming her new, cool teenage self, the summer hols at the seaside town of Penkerry are definitely looking up... or ARE they?!
The Twice-Lived Summer of Bluebell Jones is an absolutely absorbing, beautifully funny read. The characters - from Blue's gorgeous older sister, Tiger, to her pregnant drummer mum, to her gang of new-found friends - all are so vivid and feel so refreshingly real.
This is a book about living life that stays with you long after the story is finished. A totally memorable MUST READ!
Red seems to be everything that Blue isn't and longs to be, so with her very own expert to guide her into becoming her new, cool teenage self, the summer hols at the seaside town of Penkerry are definitely looking up... or ARE they?!
The Twice-Lived Summer of Bluebell Jones is an absolutely absorbing, beautifully funny read. The characters - from Blue's gorgeous older sister, Tiger, to her pregnant drummer mum, to her gang of new-found friends - all are so vivid and feel so refreshingly real.
This is a book about living life that stays with you long after the story is finished. A totally memorable MUST READ!
June 28, 2014
Just, like. WOW.
I don't even know where to start. I've been pushing off reviewing for quite some time now, and some books have already faded away in my mind, but this one is just like still clearly etched into my mind.
I personally thought this was going to be some middle-school novel, but it turned out to have such deep, almost bending towards dark themes? Bluebell and Red - the whole back to the past, and THE FREAKING TWIST AT THE END.
Be still my heart.
It was the kind of book where you finish and your face is just "O.O" for the first few minutes. Speechless. Jaw hanging out. In your head, there's Macklemore repeating What What What What.
Then summon THE TEARS.
Please, go read it.
I don't even know where to start. I've been pushing off reviewing for quite some time now, and some books have already faded away in my mind, but this one is just like still clearly etched into my mind.
I personally thought this was going to be some middle-school novel, but it turned out to have such deep, almost bending towards dark themes? Bluebell and Red - the whole back to the past, and THE FREAKING TWIST AT THE END.
Be still my heart.
It was the kind of book where you finish and your face is just "O.O" for the first few minutes. Speechless. Jaw hanging out. In your head, there's Macklemore repeating What What What What.
Then summon THE TEARS.
Please, go read it.
January 27, 2015
A really sweet read
October 11, 2024
"That's when it hits me. This is what thirteen means: danger, change, the world turned upside-down. And it's scary, because I'm not a butterfly yet. I'm still a caterpillar girl, not big enough to ride the roller coaster. Not ready to be thirteen at all."
"Why would you wish yourself out of your own life, back to here?"
"I's Penkerry! Who wouldn't want to be here?" Red beams, flinging out an arm across the bay.
This is awkward. I see a dishwater sea, wafting the smell of decaying seaweed up my nose. Far-off pebbles dotted with tiny people pretending to sunbathe while rocks poke their backs and the sun fails to shine. The rusty pier. The fairground. The Red Dragon, a dark twist of iron against the sky. She sees heaven.
"Haha, don't you love it!" Red picks up her shoulders and does a little run on the spot, like she just can't keep still. Then she catches my eye. "Well, OK, you don't love it yet. But you will. I guarantee it. And I'd know, right."
"Maybe I'm here to rescue you from yourself. You don't always need a carefully planned itinerary, Blue. That's what really needs to change. Life's no fun without surprises.
Ignore all the maps and timetables and Top Ten lists. Your future will find you. Trust me. If you relax, sit back - it might just walk right up and introduce itself."
"This is what I really want. Not to be thirteen. To bea tiny nuggety peanutty baby kept safe by my mummy and daddy, for ever."
"But that's why I didn't tell you! If you'd known, you wouldn't have gone off on the boat, you'd have stayed behind worrying and fretting - about something you couldn't do anything about. Apparently." She swallows, flipping her hair over her eyes again and staring moodily at the floor. "Knowing the future doesn't mean you can change it, Blue. I thought, maybe... maybe I could drive us down a different road. But there are fixed points: big, unchangeable moments that even a wish can't take back.
Some things are going to happen, whether you want them to or not. Things you're better off not knowing."
"I just hate that. It's all anyone does round here, walk through the day going click dick click, as if life means nothing unless you can show someone else later. It's not real memory. What do they remember, all those tourists? Here's where I took a photograph; here's where I took a photograph; here's where I took a photograph."
His voice is hard and bitter, and I clutch Diana tightly in my hands.
"I do know what you mean," I say, hesitating. I want to agree with him, to make him feel better. "But photographs can be more than memories. They can be art; something beautiful. They can show you the things you didn't see."
"And what's in a picture, it's not only one thing. It depends who's looking."
I'm taking pictures, not memories. But the pictures will remind me, for ever, of how huge and strange and tragic this moment is. I can remember it. I didn't know how important that was.
They'll be sad pictures too, because they're the end of things. But they're going to radiate happy all across my new bedroom wall.
"Why would you wish yourself out of your own life, back to here?"
"I's Penkerry! Who wouldn't want to be here?" Red beams, flinging out an arm across the bay.
This is awkward. I see a dishwater sea, wafting the smell of decaying seaweed up my nose. Far-off pebbles dotted with tiny people pretending to sunbathe while rocks poke their backs and the sun fails to shine. The rusty pier. The fairground. The Red Dragon, a dark twist of iron against the sky. She sees heaven.
"Haha, don't you love it!" Red picks up her shoulders and does a little run on the spot, like she just can't keep still. Then she catches my eye. "Well, OK, you don't love it yet. But you will. I guarantee it. And I'd know, right."
"Maybe I'm here to rescue you from yourself. You don't always need a carefully planned itinerary, Blue. That's what really needs to change. Life's no fun without surprises.
Ignore all the maps and timetables and Top Ten lists. Your future will find you. Trust me. If you relax, sit back - it might just walk right up and introduce itself."
"This is what I really want. Not to be thirteen. To bea tiny nuggety peanutty baby kept safe by my mummy and daddy, for ever."
"But that's why I didn't tell you! If you'd known, you wouldn't have gone off on the boat, you'd have stayed behind worrying and fretting - about something you couldn't do anything about. Apparently." She swallows, flipping her hair over her eyes again and staring moodily at the floor. "Knowing the future doesn't mean you can change it, Blue. I thought, maybe... maybe I could drive us down a different road. But there are fixed points: big, unchangeable moments that even a wish can't take back.
Some things are going to happen, whether you want them to or not. Things you're better off not knowing."
"I just hate that. It's all anyone does round here, walk through the day going click dick click, as if life means nothing unless you can show someone else later. It's not real memory. What do they remember, all those tourists? Here's where I took a photograph; here's where I took a photograph; here's where I took a photograph."
His voice is hard and bitter, and I clutch Diana tightly in my hands.
"I do know what you mean," I say, hesitating. I want to agree with him, to make him feel better. "But photographs can be more than memories. They can be art; something beautiful. They can show you the things you didn't see."
"And what's in a picture, it's not only one thing. It depends who's looking."
I'm taking pictures, not memories. But the pictures will remind me, for ever, of how huge and strange and tragic this moment is. I can remember it. I didn't know how important that was.
They'll be sad pictures too, because they're the end of things. But they're going to radiate happy all across my new bedroom wall.
April 1, 2023
I bought this book cause the cover looked nice and the premise seemed interesting. It was kind of slow at first but it soon got interesting and found myself unable to stop until I got to the end and as a result, I read the entire book in a span of a few hours. There were lots of fun things in it and some drama as well.
When it nearly got to the ending, I thought it was nice and that the point was for Bluebell to learn a lesson about growing up and being herself. I thought I'd end up getting an open ending of a bright but difficult future for the protagonist. But then they hit me with the twist ending.
I closed the book, slack-jawed, confused and in disbelief. I tocuhed the raised lettering and images on the cover while thinking to myself "What the hell... did that really have to happen?". Not gonna lie, I felt like I got sucker-punched. Right now I still don't understand what the point was in everything then if that ending was just gonna happen.
I liked most of the story, believe me. It was fun and I found myself invested in the character and hoping for things to be okay. I was able to finish reading this story fast cause it was getting good. But the ending... I just feel disappointed. In any case, I don't see myself rereading this story only cause that ending wasn't satisfying. It felt like there was no point in rereading it when everything in the story would come crashing down anyways.
Still, two stars for the fun I had at least.
When it nearly got to the ending, I thought it was nice and that the point was for Bluebell to learn a lesson about growing up and being herself. I thought I'd end up getting an open ending of a bright but difficult future for the protagonist. But then they hit me with the twist ending.
I closed the book, slack-jawed, confused and in disbelief. I tocuhed the raised lettering and images on the cover while thinking to myself "What the hell... did that really have to happen?". Not gonna lie, I felt like I got sucker-punched. Right now I still don't understand what the point was in everything then if that ending was just gonna happen.
I liked most of the story, believe me. It was fun and I found myself invested in the character and hoping for things to be okay. I was able to finish reading this story fast cause it was getting good. But the ending... I just feel disappointed. In any case, I don't see myself rereading this story only cause that ending wasn't satisfying. It felt like there was no point in rereading it when everything in the story would come crashing down anyways.
Still, two stars for the fun I had at least.
April 19, 2019
WHAT THE ACTUAL HECKKKKK
I DIDN’T SEE THE ENDING COMING???
OR WAS I TOO STUPID?
but aside from that, i just want to say that this book is really something, it starts off kinda slow, and boring? but then it gets better and interesting.
i am regretting that i put off reading this:-( because it’s actually THAT good.
it’s all so well written, and the story keeps getting better, and makes me wonder like where is this going? and i found myself can’t put the book down, hence me finishing it all in one sitting, kinda.
i really like the Blue’s character development.
you know how we have to take chances to be who we want to be, don’t be scared because the world has so much to offer and it will not come to us if we just stay still and only wait for the right moment to come.
we have to make the moment.
BUT STILL, WHAT THE HECK WAS THE ENDING😭
I DIDN’T SEE THE ENDING COMING???
OR WAS I TOO STUPID?
but aside from that, i just want to say that this book is really something, it starts off kinda slow, and boring? but then it gets better and interesting.
i am regretting that i put off reading this:-( because it’s actually THAT good.
it’s all so well written, and the story keeps getting better, and makes me wonder like where is this going? and i found myself can’t put the book down, hence me finishing it all in one sitting, kinda.
i really like the Blue’s character development.
you know how we have to take chances to be who we want to be, don’t be scared because the world has so much to offer and it will not come to us if we just stay still and only wait for the right moment to come.
we have to make the moment.
BUT STILL, WHAT THE HECK WAS THE ENDING😭
January 15, 2023
Bluebell’s family are spending the summer in Wales while her parents play in a festival. Depressed she’s not feeling old and together like a teenager should, she makes a wish for help. And an older version of herself answers.
It’s very much a self-discovery and growth story, and I quite liked the family elements it involved. The ending surprised me, but I don’t think I’m alone there. It’s enjoyable, and pretty much the perfect length for the story it tells.
3.5 stars
It’s very much a self-discovery and growth story, and I quite liked the family elements it involved. The ending surprised me, but I don’t think I’m alone there. It’s enjoyable, and pretty much the perfect length for the story it tells.
3.5 stars
July 21, 2019
The twice lived summer.of Blundell Jones is one of my favourite books (but I was reaching for a tissue at the end) i think I would put a parental warning on it i loved the characters and story especially her role model mom I'm a big fan of susie day and have read all her books i would defiantly recommend it
December 29, 2017
A poignant YA-cusp novel that starts simply but becomes absolutely captivating. Blue speaks to all of us - and not just our teenage selves - who wish we could, overnight, transform into the confident, sassy, gorgeous people we want to be.
July 27, 2019
Bluebell is such a lovely character. And story was so cute!
February 25, 2019
Nice book with the saddest ending
November 17, 2019
What a twist..
April 30, 2021
This book messed me up back when I was around 12 years old the ending especially?! I was in tears constantly about it because I HATED sad endings, so yes probably put a warning of some kind
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2023
The last chapter is so arghh
January 28, 2023
I would've given this 4 stars but the way it ended just came out of left field. I'd say why but then it would spoil it.
Edit: I've calmed down and after some reflection I've decided to give this 4 stars instead. (the ending is still a bruh moment tho)
Edit: I've calmed down and after some reflection I've decided to give this 4 stars instead. (the ending is still a bruh moment tho)
April 16, 2021
Real rating : 3.79 stars
A wish come true on your 13th birthday? It was something Blue couldn't imagined.
Being thirteen was never easy for Blue. The world seemed to hate her and all she really wanted just someone to save her. Her wish came true. A 14 years-old-her then answered her. Blue was so jealous of Red, herself in 14th years old. That girl got everything Blue ever wanted.
This book was absolutely stunning. I felt like I was back in my thirteen years and remembered what did I do in the past and there were so many things I couldn't even remember.
Blue, was a curious girl, she really wanted to know what future like and how was she in the future. Did she become a cool and popular girl like Red was or having so many friends and of course, that look and appearance of Red. But Red warned her, a future must stay hidden. No one can know their own futures, future is something mysterious and nobody know what would happen if their future revealed before its time.
So, with the guide of Red, Blue started to do things that was out of her comfort zone. Making friends, living her 13th lives, enjoy youth and fell in love. Oh, don't forget about having another sibling again.
I was so blown away by the plot and didn't even know the ending was out of everything I can guess. Well, yes, I am surprised. I also asked my self, 'did I read it correct?' since I was so afraid I was wrong understanding it. But apparently, it is. The ending was... well, I couldn't say it's good but I also can not say it was bad. It just... end. Like that.
But most important is, I learn that you don't need to be someone else who looks cool, amazing and nice in spectacular ways. Every single person has their own plus and minus. Just believe in yourself and stop hearing what people thought about you. Who you are is what you think. All you need to do is be yourself and accept the way you are.
A wish come true on your 13th birthday? It was something Blue couldn't imagined.
Being thirteen was never easy for Blue. The world seemed to hate her and all she really wanted just someone to save her. Her wish came true. A 14 years-old-her then answered her. Blue was so jealous of Red, herself in 14th years old. That girl got everything Blue ever wanted.
This book was absolutely stunning. I felt like I was back in my thirteen years and remembered what did I do in the past and there were so many things I couldn't even remember.
Blue, was a curious girl, she really wanted to know what future like and how was she in the future. Did she become a cool and popular girl like Red was or having so many friends and of course, that look and appearance of Red. But Red warned her, a future must stay hidden. No one can know their own futures, future is something mysterious and nobody know what would happen if their future revealed before its time.
So, with the guide of Red, Blue started to do things that was out of her comfort zone. Making friends, living her 13th lives, enjoy youth and fell in love. Oh, don't forget about having another sibling again.
I was so blown away by the plot and didn't even know the ending was out of everything I can guess. Well, yes, I am surprised. I also asked my self, 'did I read it correct?' since I was so afraid I was wrong understanding it. But apparently, it is. The ending was... well, I couldn't say it's good but I also can not say it was bad. It just... end. Like that.
But most important is, I learn that you don't need to be someone else who looks cool, amazing and nice in spectacular ways. Every single person has their own plus and minus. Just believe in yourself and stop hearing what people thought about you. Who you are is what you think. All you need to do is be yourself and accept the way you are.
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June 17, 2015Book of the month? No. Book of the year, more like.
This wonderful book should be read by parents and children alike. It offers a true to life description of teen angst that stirs memories for older readers, and gives younger readers comfort in knowing others feel as they do.
The characterisations are pitch-perfect: the magnificent Bluebell, a convincing teenager; Tiger her lesbian sister portrayed deftly and sympathetically, and the open minded parents who are so accepting of the vagaries of life and love.
This book relates Blue’s joyous discovery of who she is and what is really important to her. As well as the joy, you will experiences an undertow of sadness, and a hello-what’s-coming feeling that keeps your eyes glued to the page. I must say I beamed when Blue admits, ‘I don’t want to be anyone else. I’m ready to be me.’
On Bluebell Jones’ thirteenth birthday she wishes she was a real teenager, to be as grown up and confident as older sister,Tiger. The answer to this heartfelt wish? The appearance of her doppelganger, Red: a dyed-hair, cool-dressing vision of her fourteen year old self, come to help her achieve her wish. A vision no one but Bluebell can see.
With Red as a guide and predictor of false steps, Bluebell is able to make friends with Fifties-obsessed Fozzie, Dan the Donut, and the mysterious, top-hat wearing, Merlin. She even finds the confidence to rename herself Blue, ride the Red Dragon roller coaster... and fall in love.
But when Red refuses to reveal the name of Blue’s expected sibling, Blue suspects her of holding back other future events.
She’s right, Red is hiding something – something major.
This wonderful book should be read by parents and children alike. It offers a true to life description of teen angst that stirs memories for older readers, and gives younger readers comfort in knowing others feel as they do.
The characterisations are pitch-perfect: the magnificent Bluebell, a convincing teenager; Tiger her lesbian sister portrayed deftly and sympathetically, and the open minded parents who are so accepting of the vagaries of life and love.
This book relates Blue’s joyous discovery of who she is and what is really important to her. As well as the joy, you will experiences an undertow of sadness, and a hello-what’s-coming feeling that keeps your eyes glued to the page. I must say I beamed when Blue admits, ‘I don’t want to be anyone else. I’m ready to be me.’
On Bluebell Jones’ thirteenth birthday she wishes she was a real teenager, to be as grown up and confident as older sister,Tiger. The answer to this heartfelt wish? The appearance of her doppelganger, Red: a dyed-hair, cool-dressing vision of her fourteen year old self, come to help her achieve her wish. A vision no one but Bluebell can see.
With Red as a guide and predictor of false steps, Bluebell is able to make friends with Fifties-obsessed Fozzie, Dan the Donut, and the mysterious, top-hat wearing, Merlin. She even finds the confidence to rename herself Blue, ride the Red Dragon roller coaster... and fall in love.
But when Red refuses to reveal the name of Blue’s expected sibling, Blue suspects her of holding back other future events.
She’s right, Red is hiding something – something major.
December 5, 2014
I loved it. What a great book. I just finish reading the book and I was just into the story for about few minutes. This book really made me cheer Bluebelle a lot. She is such a nice person. I loved when Blue and Merlin fall in love. They were both struggling and trying to make things work. When Blue and Fozzie fought, they just reminded me of my sister and I fighting.
The ending of this book was just so sad and it almost made me cry! I was really expecting Blue to figure something out so that she wouldn't have to die. I think Red should though Blue to not go inside the cave. If she did then Blue would have more time to spend with her friends, have some sweet time with Merlin and welcome Peanut to her family and most of all to Grow Up. I just really think Red should have done that.
I was just really into the book and couldn't stop reading it. I would recommend this book to anyone who is a girl and she can be about 12 and above years old. I know everyone would love it. So far, this is the only favorite book I have during this year!!!
The ending of this book was just so sad and it almost made me cry! I was really expecting Blue to figure something out so that she wouldn't have to die. I think Red should though Blue to not go inside the cave. If she did then Blue would have more time to spend with her friends, have some sweet time with Merlin and welcome Peanut to her family and most of all to Grow Up. I just really think Red should have done that.
I was just really into the book and couldn't stop reading it. I would recommend this book to anyone who is a girl and she can be about 12 and above years old. I know everyone would love it. So far, this is the only favorite book I have during this year!!!
July 4, 2015
i wanted a quick easy read and this happened to be in my library. I listened to the audio book and thought the narrator sounded like she was trying to be 8 years old, but it was cute and I would have loved it when i was around 12.i think I'm a bit too old to appreciate it completely though.
Blue is on holiday with her family in Wales on her 13th birthday and it's not going as planned. She wishes she had a clearer grasp of teenage life and that's when her 14 year old selfs appears. She's cool and put together and knows exactly what will happen,though no one else can see her. soon Blue starts to make friends and enjoy her time in Wales with her own guide on what to do, but her future self has secrets that could change everything. ..
I would have given this 2 stars because i found myself feeling old reading it and it wasn't really for me, but the ending shocked me and made the story much richer.
Blue is on holiday with her family in Wales on her 13th birthday and it's not going as planned. She wishes she had a clearer grasp of teenage life and that's when her 14 year old selfs appears. She's cool and put together and knows exactly what will happen,though no one else can see her. soon Blue starts to make friends and enjoy her time in Wales with her own guide on what to do, but her future self has secrets that could change everything. ..
I would have given this 2 stars because i found myself feeling old reading it and it wasn't really for me, but the ending shocked me and made the story much richer.
January 4, 2015
What a great book. I just finished this book a few days ago. I think that it was really sweet when Bluebell realizes that she fell in love with Merlin. They both liked each other but didn't know how to express it because they were too shy just like me.
I didn't really liked the ending because Bluebell drowned in a cave. After reading that she was to die, I was shocked because I thought that she and Merlin made a great couple, but she had to DIE. I thought that it was weird because if Red knows that Blue would die, couldn't she just warn Blue not to go in the cave. That could have changed everything. It could have given Blue a chance to live and welcome the new baby.
I was confused when Tiger said that she loved Catrin. I just don't get it.
When I started the book, I just couldn't put it down. I would recommend this book to any 12 to 14-year-old girl.
I didn't really liked the ending because Bluebell drowned in a cave. After reading that she was to die, I was shocked because I thought that she and Merlin made a great couple, but she had to DIE. I thought that it was weird because if Red knows that Blue would die, couldn't she just warn Blue not to go in the cave. That could have changed everything. It could have given Blue a chance to live and welcome the new baby.
I was confused when Tiger said that she loved Catrin. I just don't get it.
When I started the book, I just couldn't put it down. I would recommend this book to any 12 to 14-year-old girl.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2013
It's difficult turning thirteen. When Blue wishes her fourteen-year-old self back from the future as a guide to becoming a cool, confident teenager, life definitely turns weird! Her future self encourages her to expand her horizons and soon Blue has made some good friends. But Red is not telling the biggest secret af all.
I so loved this book. Although a very quick read, the characters are ones you could really care about. Susie Day has become one of my favourite young teen authors.
I so loved this book. Although a very quick read, the characters are ones you could really care about. Susie Day has become one of my favourite young teen authors.
January 2, 2025
An amazing story about growing up, friendship, family, fantasizing about the future and living the present to the fullest.
"The Twice-Lived Summer of Bluebell Jones" has a gripping plot and tons of twists and surprises, the characters just come alive, even the minor ones, and the story is heart-breakingly honest and down-to-earth, despite the "magical" element that kick-starts it.
This is a book that will keep resounding in your soul long after you finish reading it.
"The Twice-Lived Summer of Bluebell Jones" has a gripping plot and tons of twists and surprises, the characters just come alive, even the minor ones, and the story is heart-breakingly honest and down-to-earth, despite the "magical" element that kick-starts it.
This is a book that will keep resounding in your soul long after you finish reading it.
March 17, 2013
I think the writing is excellent, and overall the characters are fun and interesting. Bluebell does spend quite a bit of time getting into a strop with her future self and stomping off, but when she's not doing that I really liked her. I was a bit disappointed with the ending, although there are a lot of positive messages to take from the story.
June 22, 2015
THIS BOOK IS SO FREAKING GOOD. I honestly love this book!! It's so cool, fun, cute but oh my god the ending :( I'd kind of figured it out already but it was still sad.
I wish this book was more known, since it's perfect for 13 year olds. I'm going to give a copy of this book when my sister turns 13. Very glad I read this! I actually found this in Scotland at a highlands games for like £1.
I wish this book was more known, since it's perfect for 13 year olds. I'm going to give a copy of this book when my sister turns 13. Very glad I read this! I actually found this in Scotland at a highlands games for like £1.
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