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Just 18 Summers
After the tragic death of Butch Browning's wife, four families begin to realize how precious their time together is. Butch is facing single parenthood. The O'Reillys are expecting their first child. The Andersons are approaching an empty nest, and the Buckleys are so focused on their children that they've forgotten what they truly need. With just eighteen summers before their children are grown, how do they make the most of that time?
529 pages, Hardcover
First published March 21, 2014
54 people are currently reading
595 people want to read
About the author
Rene Gutteridge
44 books270 followersRene Gutteridge is the award-winning and best-selling author of more than eighteen novels, including the beloved Boo Series and Heart of the Country, her novelization release with director John Ward and Tyndale House Publishers. Her recent suspense titles include Listen, Possession and the award-winning Seven Hours project Escapement. She's been published by Bethany House, Tyndale House, WaterBrook Press, Thomas Nelson and B&H and novelized the successful motion picture The Ultimate Gift. She is teaming again with screenwriter Cheryl McKay for the romantic comedy Greetings from the Flipside from B&H and releasing her new suspense title, Misery Loves Company from Tyndale in 2013. Her romantic comedy Never the Bride won the 2010 Carol Award for Best Women’s Fiction. Her upcoming literary projects include the novelization of the motion picture Old Fashioned with Tyndale House Publishers and filmmaker Rik Swartzwelder.
Her adaptation of her novel My Life as a Doormat is in development with Kingdom Pictures and she is also a creative consultant for Boo, a film based on her best-selling novel, in development at Sodium Entertainment with Cory Edwards attached as director and Andrea Nasfell as screenwriter. She is also co-writer in a collaborative comedy project called Last Resort with screenwriters Torry Martin and Marshal Younger. Her screenplay Skid is currently in production and scheduled to begin filming in April of 2013. Find her on Facebook and Twitter or at her website, www.renegutteridge.com
Her adaptation of her novel My Life as a Doormat is in development with Kingdom Pictures and she is also a creative consultant for Boo, a film based on her best-selling novel, in development at Sodium Entertainment with Cory Edwards attached as director and Andrea Nasfell as screenwriter. She is also co-writer in a collaborative comedy project called Last Resort with screenwriters Torry Martin and Marshal Younger. Her screenplay Skid is currently in production and scheduled to begin filming in April of 2013. Find her on Facebook and Twitter or at her website, www.renegutteridge.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
July 8, 2015
What first grabbed my attention was the cover of this book. Then I looked to see who wrote the book; Rene Gutteridge. That sealed the deal for me. I had to buy this book. Rene Gutteridge is one of my top favorite authors. I was glad to be introduced to Michelle Cox whose screen play will soon be made into a movie.
I got more than I expected inside this amazing novel. It reminded me of an old movie Steve Martin was in called Parenthood. That movie showed a few families at different seasons of parenting; from expecting their first to the teenage years and how they were handling it.
This book is similar in that respect. The major difference is the spiritual thread that is naturally woven into this story. It gives this novel a powerful punch (not in a preachy way) but in a way that is a game changer in the family dynamic.
Butch has recently lost his wife, Beth. Now he’s left to raise their 8 year old daughter by himself. He felt as if they were strangers. Beth made their relationship work. What did he know about girl stuff? He was floundering. He talks to his friend and co-worker Tippy.
“There was no purpose to this movie (My Little Pony’s - Ava keeps wanting to watch) other than to sell glitter pony dolls.”…Butch sighed. “But Ava loves it….. I think I’m going to rent some WWI and WWII DVD’s. She needs to know about Winston Churchill … Is Shindler’s List too hard to follow for her age?”
Tippy looks at Butch, “Probably too disturbing…You’re probably right…She just needs to know that there are no Glitter ponies, and I don’t think she knows that at eight.”
“How am I going to raise this kid Tippy?”….”We have nothing in common, and what about when she starts asking about…you know….underwear stuff?”
“Get a book. They got a book on everything. Daphne bought about 50 books on pregnancy and child care…She’s making me read them all. I won’t lie to you- it makes Glitter Ponies sound appealing. Right now I’m on a chapter that describes bowel movements and when you should be alarmed by them. I can’t admit to Daphne that all poop, no matter the color, alarms me.”
Butch groaned, “I’m not walking into a store and get a book about children’s underwear. They’ll put me on a watch list.”
I loved every second of this novel. It’s honest, funny and at times filled with heart piercing tender moments that made my eyes tear up and my throat choke up. I liked what Rene Gutteridge said about writing this book from Michelle Cox’s screen play. She says, “Every moment that I invested in this project was a moment that I also invested in my kids, because with every page I learned something about them, something about me, or something about my family. I saw myself as a mom through the eyes of each of the characters – my strengths, my flaws, my good intentions gone bad, and my deep love for my kids.” Amen to that Rene. Amen!
Beth, Butch’s sister-in-law has struggles of her own. She misses her sister, she was her biggest cheerleader. She goes to talk to her husband with tears in her eyes, “It’s such a sobering thing to realize you can’t get time back. It’s gone before you even know it came…” Their son has just graduated high school and their daughter is about to get married.
Helen, Beth’s next door neighbor goes to see Dr. Reynolds because of her rebellions teenager. The Dr. says to Helen…,”you can’t fix other people. You can only fix how you view them, the lens by which you see them. You can pray for your children, guide them. But you can’t fix them.”
“Helen yanked her purse off the ground as she stood. “You, Sir, should stick to counseling botched surgery victims. What you’re saying is absolute nonsense. Of course I’m supposed to fix her! That’s my job. You come out of the womb completely confused and who is to set you straight if not for your parents? Answer me that.” Then she stormed out.
This story is written through different characters eyes. Each chapter is clearly marked so you know who was speaking and what their view on parenting is. The blend of perspectives made for a moving read. This story packs a powerful punch, will grab your heart, make you think; you’ll laugh out-loud and cry. Several times I laughed so loud my family wanted to know what was going on. I shared; they laughed too!
No matter what season of parenting you are in – parenthood is a blessing. One character says to another just beginning their journey, “You don’t know it yet, but you’ll love in a way you didn’t know you were capable of.” So, true.
This is a thought-provoking read; you’ll want to read over and over again. It’s the best book I’ve read in a long time. It does a great job at capturing family life with the struggles all parents face; the joys and the changes. Balancing the demands of life with the desire to spend quality time with our children and spouses is difficult. I highly recommend this book for your next book club pick. Rene and Michelle hit this one out of the park. This novel is a keeper and one you’ll be sharing with friends and anyone who will listen about the great book you just finished!
Disclosure of Material Connection: #AD Sponsored by publisher.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network Blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
I got more than I expected inside this amazing novel. It reminded me of an old movie Steve Martin was in called Parenthood. That movie showed a few families at different seasons of parenting; from expecting their first to the teenage years and how they were handling it.
This book is similar in that respect. The major difference is the spiritual thread that is naturally woven into this story. It gives this novel a powerful punch (not in a preachy way) but in a way that is a game changer in the family dynamic.
Butch has recently lost his wife, Beth. Now he’s left to raise their 8 year old daughter by himself. He felt as if they were strangers. Beth made their relationship work. What did he know about girl stuff? He was floundering. He talks to his friend and co-worker Tippy.
“There was no purpose to this movie (My Little Pony’s - Ava keeps wanting to watch) other than to sell glitter pony dolls.”…Butch sighed. “But Ava loves it….. I think I’m going to rent some WWI and WWII DVD’s. She needs to know about Winston Churchill … Is Shindler’s List too hard to follow for her age?”
Tippy looks at Butch, “Probably too disturbing…You’re probably right…She just needs to know that there are no Glitter ponies, and I don’t think she knows that at eight.”
“How am I going to raise this kid Tippy?”….”We have nothing in common, and what about when she starts asking about…you know….underwear stuff?”
“Get a book. They got a book on everything. Daphne bought about 50 books on pregnancy and child care…She’s making me read them all. I won’t lie to you- it makes Glitter Ponies sound appealing. Right now I’m on a chapter that describes bowel movements and when you should be alarmed by them. I can’t admit to Daphne that all poop, no matter the color, alarms me.”
Butch groaned, “I’m not walking into a store and get a book about children’s underwear. They’ll put me on a watch list.”
I loved every second of this novel. It’s honest, funny and at times filled with heart piercing tender moments that made my eyes tear up and my throat choke up. I liked what Rene Gutteridge said about writing this book from Michelle Cox’s screen play. She says, “Every moment that I invested in this project was a moment that I also invested in my kids, because with every page I learned something about them, something about me, or something about my family. I saw myself as a mom through the eyes of each of the characters – my strengths, my flaws, my good intentions gone bad, and my deep love for my kids.” Amen to that Rene. Amen!
Beth, Butch’s sister-in-law has struggles of her own. She misses her sister, she was her biggest cheerleader. She goes to talk to her husband with tears in her eyes, “It’s such a sobering thing to realize you can’t get time back. It’s gone before you even know it came…” Their son has just graduated high school and their daughter is about to get married.
Helen, Beth’s next door neighbor goes to see Dr. Reynolds because of her rebellions teenager. The Dr. says to Helen…,”you can’t fix other people. You can only fix how you view them, the lens by which you see them. You can pray for your children, guide them. But you can’t fix them.”
“Helen yanked her purse off the ground as she stood. “You, Sir, should stick to counseling botched surgery victims. What you’re saying is absolute nonsense. Of course I’m supposed to fix her! That’s my job. You come out of the womb completely confused and who is to set you straight if not for your parents? Answer me that.” Then she stormed out.
This story is written through different characters eyes. Each chapter is clearly marked so you know who was speaking and what their view on parenting is. The blend of perspectives made for a moving read. This story packs a powerful punch, will grab your heart, make you think; you’ll laugh out-loud and cry. Several times I laughed so loud my family wanted to know what was going on. I shared; they laughed too!
No matter what season of parenting you are in – parenthood is a blessing. One character says to another just beginning their journey, “You don’t know it yet, but you’ll love in a way you didn’t know you were capable of.” So, true.
This is a thought-provoking read; you’ll want to read over and over again. It’s the best book I’ve read in a long time. It does a great job at capturing family life with the struggles all parents face; the joys and the changes. Balancing the demands of life with the desire to spend quality time with our children and spouses is difficult. I highly recommend this book for your next book club pick. Rene and Michelle hit this one out of the park. This novel is a keeper and one you’ll be sharing with friends and anyone who will listen about the great book you just finished!
Disclosure of Material Connection: #AD Sponsored by publisher.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network Blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
January 31, 2025
This book seeks to capture the limited time parents have with their kids before they leave home. I can identify with the main characters in this fictional story. I also struggle with nagging feelings of “not enough.” Not enough time teaching or enough time making memories or not enough wisdom for the challenges of life. This book, through the characters, illustrates living in the moments we have and depending on God with the future. This book is funny and poignant and made me laugh out load and tear up. I recommend it to any mother.
May 2, 2019
More reading while I have the flu. I've done a western, a humor book, a book on Christianity, and now this one. I'd probably classify it as "heartwarming," but it's much better than most of the heartwarming fluff.
I picked this up to read, as our middle child is approaching the 18th summer, and we have one already in college. I was a little wary of reading it, though, because I was afraid it would either be a tear-jerker, or would make me think of a thousand little things I'd forgotten to teach them. (I don't know that my kids can make omelettes, either, but they can cook at least a little and they can do eggs. I just don't know that we've ever thought of them doing omelettes.)
I don't think this book fell into either of those two traps, being a tear-jerker, or a book of should-have-dones.
Much of it was funny, and I enjoyed the humor in it quite a bit. I tried to read some of the little funny bits to my husband, but he didn't get it, either because I didn't give him enough context, or because it truly is more of a woman's book. If I ever read it again, it would be for the humor.
I am rating it as a 4 - thoroughly enjoyed it, would recommend it, but not a 5 because I doubt I'd read it again. But you never know.
I didn't expect Ava to be in charge of the ...
It's the second book I've read recently with parents coming to terms about the wedding of a child. The other book was Charles Dicken's "Our Mutual Friend." Although the writing styles are vastly different, Gutteridge and Cox's Larry and Beth parenting characters did have quite a lot in common with the Dickens' characters. Maybe I shouldn't say which Dickens' characters in that book and give away who marries whom. Beth is a better, more loving mom than the Dickens' mom character, though. Both sets of parents worried over their children's financial ruin in the match, and both sets of adult children hid things from their parents.
These characters in "Just 18 Summers" were all wild in one way or another. I loved Tippy and Butch's scheme to go see a counselor together, loved some of Ava's sassy little comebacks, and some of what the counselor said was very good.
Yeah, I think Marvin probably should've told his future in-laws more of the story up front, but I can see why he'd be intimidated to do that.
Also, I didn't like that Beth felt like she had to put on a perfect front for her scrapbooking group - [what is the purpose of having women friends if you can't vent to them a little?] - but I also think that having the Helen character in the scrapbooking group would've made that hard, since Helen was so openly critical of everyone.
I think I would've handled her differently, though. I tend to react to that sort of attitude by just openly grinning and loving my messy life and the people in it, even the imperfect, worrisome moments. Perfection in the form of lawn maintenance or clothing or high society does not appeal to me. It feels constricting, like a waste of time conforming to someone else's standard. It's just a different set of goals than mine. I would have even felt sorry for her - a little. Yeah, maybe Beth and Larry should've thought a little further ahead about what they wanted to instill in their kids, rather than just going along with the flow of society. But, Helen went too far, in wanting to think only with her head and not her heart. They are at opposite, extreme ends of the spectrum on that, and the best place to be is probably somewhere in the middle.
So many little things were not wrapped up, and good conversations could've happened. Butch could've had some conversations with Ava over some of what she'd said, to reach an understanding. Nathan and Larry could have talked over their expectations for the summer. I know that Nathan may not have wanted to do those things anymore, but I can picture them laughing over them together, as good memories, once his dad was older. Beth could have even talked with Helen about having different parenting goals and methods, but that might've been a dangerous conversation to have, perhaps not worth the bitter criticism to follow, particularly as Beth didn't seem to understand her own goals or be able to articulate them very well. Plus, Beth seemed understandably insecure about her parenting style at the moment because of her daughter's decisions. I could also imagine just shrugging that conversation off, letting it slide, thinking that God Himself will teach Helen, if she ever needs to know, or being willing to talk later if it ever became a serious issue between the families.
Maybe Larry could've let the kids pick some of the fun activities for the summer, or had them each pick something. We used to do that, have each child pick an activity for our family day. And Beth didn't have to stay out of their fun just because 1) She didn't know how to construct a kite or 2) Because she was a woman. I wasn't sure if that was part of it. Apparently, none of the rest of them knew how to do it, either, and that didn't inhibit their fun. But I realize that she was still focused on mourning her daughter's choice of spouse and probably didn't feel up to it emotionally. But then again, it could've made a better summer for her to bond with the kids who were present and willing, rather than just pine after the one who wasn't.
I also thought it was unrealistic ... SPOILER ... how much money was raised so quickly, and maybe a few other little odds and ends, too.
I picked this up to read, as our middle child is approaching the 18th summer, and we have one already in college. I was a little wary of reading it, though, because I was afraid it would either be a tear-jerker, or would make me think of a thousand little things I'd forgotten to teach them. (I don't know that my kids can make omelettes, either, but they can cook at least a little and they can do eggs. I just don't know that we've ever thought of them doing omelettes.)
I don't think this book fell into either of those two traps, being a tear-jerker, or a book of should-have-dones.
Much of it was funny, and I enjoyed the humor in it quite a bit. I tried to read some of the little funny bits to my husband, but he didn't get it, either because I didn't give him enough context, or because it truly is more of a woman's book. If I ever read it again, it would be for the humor.
I am rating it as a 4 - thoroughly enjoyed it, would recommend it, but not a 5 because I doubt I'd read it again. But you never know.
I didn't expect Ava to be in charge of the ...
It's the second book I've read recently with parents coming to terms about the wedding of a child. The other book was Charles Dicken's "Our Mutual Friend." Although the writing styles are vastly different, Gutteridge and Cox's Larry and Beth parenting characters did have quite a lot in common with the Dickens' characters. Maybe I shouldn't say which Dickens' characters in that book and give away who marries whom. Beth is a better, more loving mom than the Dickens' mom character, though. Both sets of parents worried over their children's financial ruin in the match, and both sets of adult children hid things from their parents.
These characters in "Just 18 Summers" were all wild in one way or another. I loved Tippy and Butch's scheme to go see a counselor together, loved some of Ava's sassy little comebacks, and some of what the counselor said was very good.
Yeah, I think Marvin probably should've told his future in-laws more of the story up front, but I can see why he'd be intimidated to do that.
Also, I didn't like that Beth felt like she had to put on a perfect front for her scrapbooking group - [what is the purpose of having women friends if you can't vent to them a little?] - but I also think that having the Helen character in the scrapbooking group would've made that hard, since Helen was so openly critical of everyone.
I think I would've handled her differently, though. I tend to react to that sort of attitude by just openly grinning and loving my messy life and the people in it, even the imperfect, worrisome moments. Perfection in the form of lawn maintenance or clothing or high society does not appeal to me. It feels constricting, like a waste of time conforming to someone else's standard. It's just a different set of goals than mine. I would have even felt sorry for her - a little. Yeah, maybe Beth and Larry should've thought a little further ahead about what they wanted to instill in their kids, rather than just going along with the flow of society. But, Helen went too far, in wanting to think only with her head and not her heart. They are at opposite, extreme ends of the spectrum on that, and the best place to be is probably somewhere in the middle.
So many little things were not wrapped up, and good conversations could've happened. Butch could've had some conversations with Ava over some of what she'd said, to reach an understanding. Nathan and Larry could have talked over their expectations for the summer. I know that Nathan may not have wanted to do those things anymore, but I can picture them laughing over them together, as good memories, once his dad was older. Beth could have even talked with Helen about having different parenting goals and methods, but that might've been a dangerous conversation to have, perhaps not worth the bitter criticism to follow, particularly as Beth didn't seem to understand her own goals or be able to articulate them very well. Plus, Beth seemed understandably insecure about her parenting style at the moment because of her daughter's decisions. I could also imagine just shrugging that conversation off, letting it slide, thinking that God Himself will teach Helen, if she ever needs to know, or being willing to talk later if it ever became a serious issue between the families.
Maybe Larry could've let the kids pick some of the fun activities for the summer, or had them each pick something. We used to do that, have each child pick an activity for our family day. And Beth didn't have to stay out of their fun just because 1) She didn't know how to construct a kite or 2) Because she was a woman. I wasn't sure if that was part of it. Apparently, none of the rest of them knew how to do it, either, and that didn't inhibit their fun. But I realize that she was still focused on mourning her daughter's choice of spouse and probably didn't feel up to it emotionally. But then again, it could've made a better summer for her to bond with the kids who were present and willing, rather than just pine after the one who wasn't.
I also thought it was unrealistic ... SPOILER ... how much money was raised so quickly, and maybe a few other little odds and ends, too.
April 25, 2022
This book was ok. I liked it but I probably won't read this book a lot.
June 12, 2014
When Jenny died, she left behind her devoted husband Butch and their 8 year old daughter. Butch is a construction manager. He is all man. He knows nothing about raising a daughter. He desperately misses his wife and fears that he will not be the father to Ava that jenny would want him to be. He orders in pizza, dresses Ava in reindeer sweaters in May, and doesn't notice the pants she is wearing that are inches above her ankles. He is lost.
Jenny's death affected their circle of friends as well. She was the glue that held everyone together through her deep faith in God and her own inner goodness and wisdom. Those left behind find themselves asking "What would Jenny do?" when they find themselves realizing that time together is precious and fleeting.
Larry and Beth (Jenny's sister) have just watched their older son graduate from high school. It's not their first to leave, but when their daughter announces that she is marrying the pizza delivery guy that she has only known for a few months, the panic sets in. Beth and Larry wonder where the years have gone and decide to make up for lost time...teaching her daughter to cook, having game nights, family projects to bring them all together and to hopefully persuade their daughter that she needs to aspire to more than being a pizza delivery guy's wife. Of course, their efforts are at times hilarious, and disastrous.
Tippy (Butch's employee) and his wife Daphne are expecting their first child. Daphne has gone overboard with baby-proofing before the baby even arrives. She has driven Tippy out of the house with her never-ending worrying and her addiction to reading books and websites that will mean their baby will grow up without ever getting hurt or sick. Again, hilarious.
Charles and Helen are Beth's neighbors and are aghast at the sudden antics and lack of home upkeep of Larry and Beth. They are parents who want only the best for their brood...lessons for this and lessons for that. Each moment of each day is scheduled to ensure the success of their children. There is a rather sad story behind Helen's drive which makes her if not likeable, at least understandable.
The chapters are written from a different character's point of view and each one is well-defined. The whole story comes together from this unusual approach. Even Jenny, whom you never "meet" becomes real through all the viewpoints expressed.
The story is affirmation that time is short and that too much time is spent on worrying about the small stuff and not enough time is spent with our loved. It is about trusting in our parenting skills and in our children once they are ready to leave the nest. It is about learning that our children are gifts that have been given to us and that they are not ours to possess. It is about trusting in God and letting go to let Him do his best work.
I loved the plot of this book and what I especially loved was the strong male characters who were much more than hand-wringing side-kicks. At times, it seemed that the males were the main characters. But, then again, I think little Ava just may have been the star. Very much like her mother, she taught each of the 4 families about love and life and the gift of giving. Her mother would be proud!
Jenny's death affected their circle of friends as well. She was the glue that held everyone together through her deep faith in God and her own inner goodness and wisdom. Those left behind find themselves asking "What would Jenny do?" when they find themselves realizing that time together is precious and fleeting.
Larry and Beth (Jenny's sister) have just watched their older son graduate from high school. It's not their first to leave, but when their daughter announces that she is marrying the pizza delivery guy that she has only known for a few months, the panic sets in. Beth and Larry wonder where the years have gone and decide to make up for lost time...teaching her daughter to cook, having game nights, family projects to bring them all together and to hopefully persuade their daughter that she needs to aspire to more than being a pizza delivery guy's wife. Of course, their efforts are at times hilarious, and disastrous.
Tippy (Butch's employee) and his wife Daphne are expecting their first child. Daphne has gone overboard with baby-proofing before the baby even arrives. She has driven Tippy out of the house with her never-ending worrying and her addiction to reading books and websites that will mean their baby will grow up without ever getting hurt or sick. Again, hilarious.
Charles and Helen are Beth's neighbors and are aghast at the sudden antics and lack of home upkeep of Larry and Beth. They are parents who want only the best for their brood...lessons for this and lessons for that. Each moment of each day is scheduled to ensure the success of their children. There is a rather sad story behind Helen's drive which makes her if not likeable, at least understandable.
The chapters are written from a different character's point of view and each one is well-defined. The whole story comes together from this unusual approach. Even Jenny, whom you never "meet" becomes real through all the viewpoints expressed.
The story is affirmation that time is short and that too much time is spent on worrying about the small stuff and not enough time is spent with our loved. It is about trusting in our parenting skills and in our children once they are ready to leave the nest. It is about learning that our children are gifts that have been given to us and that they are not ours to possess. It is about trusting in God and letting go to let Him do his best work.
I loved the plot of this book and what I especially loved was the strong male characters who were much more than hand-wringing side-kicks. At times, it seemed that the males were the main characters. But, then again, I think little Ava just may have been the star. Very much like her mother, she taught each of the 4 families about love and life and the gift of giving. Her mother would be proud!
June 12, 2014
It might seem cliche when parents remark that “time flies” or “enjoy your kids while they’re young” as you start your own family. Only too soon do you realize how true it is. In Just 18 Summers the characters of each of 4 families go through these life changes as well. These characters are the sort to which any parent can relate. It was a little hard for me to settle into reading Just 18 Summers. The fact that the book included stories from 4 families made it difficult to keep up, especially when the chapters swiveled between the families. Each character was somehow tied to the next, so that helped.
I really liked the way that the parents turned to God and also depended upon each other for support. It would have been easy for the book to take a different turn, but there was a silver lining at the edge of each cloud. I realize that all too soon the house will be too quiet, just a little too clean, and much too empty. In those days (in the not-so-distant future) I’m sure that I’ll be wondering if I spent enough time tucking the kids in bed and if I made their favorite foods enough times. So you’ll understand if I excuse myself now and go kiss my kids goodnight!
I received this book to review. The opinions shared here are 100% mine.
I really liked the way that the parents turned to God and also depended upon each other for support. It would have been easy for the book to take a different turn, but there was a silver lining at the edge of each cloud. I realize that all too soon the house will be too quiet, just a little too clean, and much too empty. In those days (in the not-so-distant future) I’m sure that I’ll be wondering if I spent enough time tucking the kids in bed and if I made their favorite foods enough times. So you’ll understand if I excuse myself now and go kiss my kids goodnight!
I received this book to review. The opinions shared here are 100% mine.
July 1, 2020
"Sometimes the days will feel really long, Butch, but just remember, the years are really short."
"When your child is born, eighteen years seem like they'll last forever. But it goes by in a blink. You have just eighteen summers to make memories together. You can't go back and rewind those days."
Every parent or expectant parent should read this book. It helps us remember that our greatest commodity, our greatest legacy we leave to this world are our children.
A beautiful book from the perspective of several different families in differing situations. I loved it!
"When your child is born, eighteen years seem like they'll last forever. But it goes by in a blink. You have just eighteen summers to make memories together. You can't go back and rewind those days."
Every parent or expectant parent should read this book. It helps us remember that our greatest commodity, our greatest legacy we leave to this world are our children.
A beautiful book from the perspective of several different families in differing situations. I loved it!
September 2, 2020
Sweet tale about kids growing up, a little wistful for a parent who is experiencing something similar. A little too preachy, but otherwise a good book.
February 15, 2016
It was kind of a slow read for me, but the message is powerful. I really enjoyed it.
March 10, 2022
Just 18 Summers by Michelle Cox and Rene Gutteridge is a novel that tells the story of four families.
Butch Browning’s wife, Jenny, has recently passed away, and Butch is in a fog. Jenny had taken care of so many things, especially their young daughter, Ava. Butch owns a construction company and feels the weight of responsibility much more than when he was just another worker. But at home, the most he can manage is pizza every night.
Beth is Butch’s sister, married with three children. Her oldest daughter is in college and her oldest son is heading there next fall. In the midst of distress over her emptying nest, her daughter throws the family a curve ball: she wants to quit college and get married . . . to the pizza delivery guy.
Tippy is Butch’s foreman, and he and his wife, Daphne, are expecting their first child. But Daphne has gone off the deep end in trying to do everything possible to protect their child: reading every book she can find, covering every corner with pool noodles, forbidding certain foods from their home, etc., etc. etc.Her obsession is affecting their marriage, and Tippy can’t fathom how they’ll cope when the baby actually comes.
Helen and Charles Buckley are Beth’s neighbors, and the wives of all these families attend the scrapbooking get-together that Jenny started and which currently meets at Helen’s home. Charles has an excellent job, and Helen is determined to provide their children the very best opportunities so they’ll never be deprived or embarrassed like she was growing up. But Charles’ business responsibilities keep him from being an active part of his children’s lives, and Helen’s driven and regimented schedule for her children misses their deepest needs.
One theme in this book is that parents have a relatively short time—just 18 summers–to form relationships with their children, make lasting memories, and be the primary influence to their children. It goes so fast. Though, of course, we still have a relationship and make memories even after our children leave home, we have the biggest hand in their training when they are young.
Another theme is that there is only so much parents can control. As children become old enough to make their own decisions, those decisions may not be in keeping with what the parents think best. As Daphne discovers, we can’t protect our children from every little thing. Though we seek God’s will and do our best, ultimately our children’s lives are in God’s hands.
The book illustrates both points with humor and poignancy.
Though Jenny seems to have been almost too good to be true, and though Ava seems more capable than a child her age would normally be, all the characters are realistic and enjoyable.
Overall I thought this was a great, enjoyable book. Though it has a point to make, it’s not didactic or heavy-handed. Since my own children are “out of the nest,” I can “amen” the truths in this book.
Butch Browning’s wife, Jenny, has recently passed away, and Butch is in a fog. Jenny had taken care of so many things, especially their young daughter, Ava. Butch owns a construction company and feels the weight of responsibility much more than when he was just another worker. But at home, the most he can manage is pizza every night.
Beth is Butch’s sister, married with three children. Her oldest daughter is in college and her oldest son is heading there next fall. In the midst of distress over her emptying nest, her daughter throws the family a curve ball: she wants to quit college and get married . . . to the pizza delivery guy.
Tippy is Butch’s foreman, and he and his wife, Daphne, are expecting their first child. But Daphne has gone off the deep end in trying to do everything possible to protect their child: reading every book she can find, covering every corner with pool noodles, forbidding certain foods from their home, etc., etc. etc.Her obsession is affecting their marriage, and Tippy can’t fathom how they’ll cope when the baby actually comes.
Helen and Charles Buckley are Beth’s neighbors, and the wives of all these families attend the scrapbooking get-together that Jenny started and which currently meets at Helen’s home. Charles has an excellent job, and Helen is determined to provide their children the very best opportunities so they’ll never be deprived or embarrassed like she was growing up. But Charles’ business responsibilities keep him from being an active part of his children’s lives, and Helen’s driven and regimented schedule for her children misses their deepest needs.
One theme in this book is that parents have a relatively short time—just 18 summers–to form relationships with their children, make lasting memories, and be the primary influence to their children. It goes so fast. Though, of course, we still have a relationship and make memories even after our children leave home, we have the biggest hand in their training when they are young.
Another theme is that there is only so much parents can control. As children become old enough to make their own decisions, those decisions may not be in keeping with what the parents think best. As Daphne discovers, we can’t protect our children from every little thing. Though we seek God’s will and do our best, ultimately our children’s lives are in God’s hands.
The book illustrates both points with humor and poignancy.
Though Jenny seems to have been almost too good to be true, and though Ava seems more capable than a child her age would normally be, all the characters are realistic and enjoyable.
Overall I thought this was a great, enjoyable book. Though it has a point to make, it’s not didactic or heavy-handed. Since my own children are “out of the nest,” I can “amen” the truths in this book.
October 5, 2019
There were almost too many characters in this one for me to keep straight. I like stories where you get to see facets of many characters’ own storylines, but I honestly struggled to keep everyone straight. I contemplated writing a journal so I could easily reference who was who. I shouldn’t have to do that!
I like reading stories with Christian themes, but this one felt a little forced. I would have liked to see God interwoven more in to the characters’ lives throughout the whole book.
There was no one character that I was a big fan of. There were some obvious solutions to conflicts and that was also frustrating. I wanted to love this book, but I didn’t. I even almost didn’t finish it which I never do. The end part of the book was better than the rest, but it was still only “meh” at best.
I like reading stories with Christian themes, but this one felt a little forced. I would have liked to see God interwoven more in to the characters’ lives throughout the whole book.
There was no one character that I was a big fan of. There were some obvious solutions to conflicts and that was also frustrating. I wanted to love this book, but I didn’t. I even almost didn’t finish it which I never do. The end part of the book was better than the rest, but it was still only “meh” at best.
November 14, 2021
Oh my goodness this was one of those reads that just get to you I laughed hard and cried even harder !
Having recently lost a very dear friend I could really identify with the friends and their loss of Jenny .
All the characters have a special place in my heart and each one meant something different to me and I learnt lessons from them all especially the youngest ❣️
This is a book I wish I could gift to everyone I know ❣️
Having recently lost a very dear friend I could really identify with the friends and their loss of Jenny .
All the characters have a special place in my heart and each one meant something different to me and I learnt lessons from them all especially the youngest ❣️
This is a book I wish I could gift to everyone I know ❣️
April 5, 2018
I loved this book. It is a well-written story of families who are growing toward some understanding of their children. The fathers find the they have spent hours working rather than enjoying their children. Both the mothers and fathers begin to feel that they have missed the best years. Both parents and children would enjoy this.
August 2, 2019
I guess I like some of the messages in this book. But there were so many loose ends, situations that you thought were going to go somewhere and then never were mentioned again, unexplained/ unanswered things that didn't fit or contribute to the story at all. And the endings for each character seemed anticlimactic or unbelievable.
June 28, 2021
Perfect book for our Summer Start with the Kids! What a Great reminder to enjoy my Kids, to be present so I won‘t live with regret later! Will keep this one for sure but in the meantime will pass it on to my Friends!
I only have 9 Summers with my son and 11 with my daughter left! Summer grace!
Live on purpose! Make your Life count!🤗
I only have 9 Summers with my son and 11 with my daughter left! Summer grace!
Live on purpose! Make your Life count!🤗
July 20, 2023
As opposed to these characters, I find myself over scheduling trips and outings in the name of creating memories. I wonder if by making our lives so busy, I'm creating the opposite effect? It is a good reminder though, we only have 18 summers with these treasures. Let's make them count. It is just tricky to figure out the best balance.
June 10, 2025
This book checked a lot of boxes for me. first it had me laughing out loud in places, second it had me nodding my head in agreement, but most of all it had a soft message of hope for everyone who has raised a child or is currently raising children that the best gift you give your child is your time. Great read.You will find it hard to put down.
August 10, 2023
This was a cute story about four families all connected in some way. It does start off sad, but it is heart warming. I liked some family stories more than others. At times, the stories seem a bit unrealistic but the message was good.
November 16, 2018
Formulaic, easy read, but it reminds you to value time with your kids!
June 23, 2019
A great read - especially on the heels of high school graduation season and the beginning of summer.
February 9, 2020
Four families, who all share one thing...time lost and a new vision of the dreams they had for their futures and the futures of their children. As always, God's plans are timeless.
July 1, 2021
Nice story about what is important in life.
February 28, 2022
Slow start but great book
November 11, 2022
Hit all the emotions. Different story lines but all tied together in the end. Really enjoyed it!
April 30, 2025
I really loved this book. Very relatable and the sentiment is spot on.
September 18, 2014
Just 18 Summers
is particularly relevant for many readers because it is about the brevity of parenthood, the struggles parents experience, and at least in the Western culture, trying to balance busy lives with our children's need for us to be there for them. Four families loosely connected to each other become the backdrop for the events embroidered on it. Some of the scenes are funny, some are poignant, some are very serious in nature. The book touched my heart in a good way, and I hope it does the same for you.
Butch Browning was suddenly thrown into single fatherhood when his young wife died in a car crash. Butch and Jenny's daughter was 8 going on twenty it seemed. Since the day he received news of his wife's death, he could barely function in real life. He didn't know anything about rearing a little girl. Tippy's wife Daphne was pregnant with their first child. Tippy thought she was high strung before the pregnancy, but now she was fanatical about child care, child rearing and safety, and parenthood in general. He admitted to Butch that she had bought nearly 50 books on the topic. Daphne found some consolation in the scrapbooking group she attended once a week. The group had been started by Jenny, Butch's wife.
Beth Anderson was also a part of the scrapbooking group her sister Jenny had started. It was a bright spot in what looked to be a difficult summer. Larry and Beth Anderson lived in a nice neighborhood. Larry was a great provider which allowed Beth to stay at home with their three children. But regrets reared their ugly heads after the death of Beth's sister. She realized how fleeting life really was, and it hit her hard when their oldest son graduated from high school. Larry, too, felt the crunch of time when he understood this was the last summer their family would experience as a whole unit. When Robin, 21, announced her engagement and upcoming marriage in the Fall, Beth went through full-blown panic, while Larry launched his last ditch effort towards family unity that he called The Summer of Intense Fun.
Across the hedge from the Andersons were Charles and Helen Buckley. Helen was also part of the scrapbooking group Jenny had organized. They had noticed the sudden frenetic activity in their neighbor's yard--strange games with whipped cream and cherries, rocket-powered kites, picnics, charades, and Pictionary. It was not dignified and Helen was unsettled by it all. Charles hadn't noticed much because he was always away at work.
One of the many things I loved about this book is the humor embedded in the multiple streams of the plot lines. For me, one of the funniest incidents was when the culinary-challenged dad, Butch, was to bake cupcakes for Ava's class. I could only laugh when Tippy showed up with a toolbox, especially later when they lost a screwdriver in the batter. I really have to try using a glass to cut out cupcake shapes from a sheetcake, just once. But the peanut butter covered beef jerky with M&M's on top really struck my funny bone. How could we not chuckle at such attempts to make little Ava's upside down life turn topside. I give Butch an A for effort.
I enjoy character-based books as well as I like adventure and action books. Characterization is important in this book, especially in the addition of the deceased Jennifer Browning, whose presence is felt all throughout the story. In fact, her absence is the catalyst for the fallout two main characters experience and is the element the authors use to further bind the four families together. Her loss served to create tension; eventually that tension is resolved through the events of the storyline.
Throughout the book, a single theme rings out loud and clear: time is short and you may never recover special family moments if you allow them to slip past you. Because four families are struggling with this basic factor, it tends to get repeated often in various ways. I found this a tad bit irritating. But that's just me.
Overall, I give this book two thumbs up and recommend it to parents in all stages of life.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from The Book Club Network on behalf of Tyndale House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission�s 16 CFR, Part 255: �Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Butch Browning was suddenly thrown into single fatherhood when his young wife died in a car crash. Butch and Jenny's daughter was 8 going on twenty it seemed. Since the day he received news of his wife's death, he could barely function in real life. He didn't know anything about rearing a little girl. Tippy's wife Daphne was pregnant with their first child. Tippy thought she was high strung before the pregnancy, but now she was fanatical about child care, child rearing and safety, and parenthood in general. He admitted to Butch that she had bought nearly 50 books on the topic. Daphne found some consolation in the scrapbooking group she attended once a week. The group had been started by Jenny, Butch's wife.
Beth Anderson was also a part of the scrapbooking group her sister Jenny had started. It was a bright spot in what looked to be a difficult summer. Larry and Beth Anderson lived in a nice neighborhood. Larry was a great provider which allowed Beth to stay at home with their three children. But regrets reared their ugly heads after the death of Beth's sister. She realized how fleeting life really was, and it hit her hard when their oldest son graduated from high school. Larry, too, felt the crunch of time when he understood this was the last summer their family would experience as a whole unit. When Robin, 21, announced her engagement and upcoming marriage in the Fall, Beth went through full-blown panic, while Larry launched his last ditch effort towards family unity that he called The Summer of Intense Fun.
Across the hedge from the Andersons were Charles and Helen Buckley. Helen was also part of the scrapbooking group Jenny had organized. They had noticed the sudden frenetic activity in their neighbor's yard--strange games with whipped cream and cherries, rocket-powered kites, picnics, charades, and Pictionary. It was not dignified and Helen was unsettled by it all. Charles hadn't noticed much because he was always away at work.
One of the many things I loved about this book is the humor embedded in the multiple streams of the plot lines. For me, one of the funniest incidents was when the culinary-challenged dad, Butch, was to bake cupcakes for Ava's class. I could only laugh when Tippy showed up with a toolbox, especially later when they lost a screwdriver in the batter. I really have to try using a glass to cut out cupcake shapes from a sheetcake, just once. But the peanut butter covered beef jerky with M&M's on top really struck my funny bone. How could we not chuckle at such attempts to make little Ava's upside down life turn topside. I give Butch an A for effort.
I enjoy character-based books as well as I like adventure and action books. Characterization is important in this book, especially in the addition of the deceased Jennifer Browning, whose presence is felt all throughout the story. In fact, her absence is the catalyst for the fallout two main characters experience and is the element the authors use to further bind the four families together. Her loss served to create tension; eventually that tension is resolved through the events of the storyline.
Throughout the book, a single theme rings out loud and clear: time is short and you may never recover special family moments if you allow them to slip past you. Because four families are struggling with this basic factor, it tends to get repeated often in various ways. I found this a tad bit irritating. But that's just me.
Overall, I give this book two thumbs up and recommend it to parents in all stages of life.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from The Book Club Network on behalf of Tyndale House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission�s 16 CFR, Part 255: �Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
August 25, 2014
Just 18 Summers is definitely on my top 10 list of must read books! At times I laughed so hard I had to read excerpts to my family so they’d understand why I was laughing. At other times I cried tears of sorrow, of joy and of understanding. Four families in the story each tell their side of the parenting world and the struggles of raising kids for 18 summers from birth through adulthood. The book tells the story of how one life touches so many others and the best preaching that ever happens is what a Christian lives out every day in normal circumstances.
Jenny Browning may have never known the incredible impact she had on the people in her life but through their stories, each person tells how Jenny touched them and pointed them to God.
Butch never intended on being a single parent but life threw him into parenthood with a beautiful little girl, Ava and the loss of his wonderful wife, Jenny. Butch does the best he can with pizza dinners, but he’s missing so much more than cooking lessons. His daughter becomes his teacher and he finds 18 summers goes very fast.
Beth has prayed over her children every day of their lives. She’s asked God to give them spouses who are of His choosing. Beth has trusted the Lord all of her life, at least she thinks she’s trust Him until her faith is tested. When Beth’s daughter announces she’s marrying a pizza delivery boy, Beth falls apart. This was never in her plans for her daughter, Robin. As Beth realizes she’s tried to protect her children from anything hurtful or harmful, she also realizes she’s tried to control them out of God’s plan for each of them. Beth finds that 18 summers has flown by before she realized it and she never taught her daughter everything she could to make the perfect choices in life.
Daphne is pregnant with her first baby and she’s determined to do it right. She finds every book on pregnancy, parenting, and child care that she read. With all of the planning she’s doing, she finds herself in a place where she’s not trusting God for her life or the life of her child. Slowly in her psychotic planning and preparing, Daphne has alienated her husband, Tippy.
Charles and Helen have the perfect life. They dress perfectly, live in the perfect house, have perfect children, or at least it appears like that from the outside. Helen wants to give her children everything and Charles is driven enough to make that happen. But in all of their perfection, they are realizing 18 summers with their children is not something they can buy.
Each family faces their own trials and tribulations but all come to realize 18 summers is all they’re going to have with their children. Just 18 Summers is a fantastic read! I cannot say enough great things about the book. However, I can say that I’ll be adding books by both Rene Gutteridge and Michelle Cox on to my to be read list.
I received Just 18 Summers from the Book Club Network and Tyndale Publishing in exchange for my honest opinion.
Jenny Browning may have never known the incredible impact she had on the people in her life but through their stories, each person tells how Jenny touched them and pointed them to God.
Butch never intended on being a single parent but life threw him into parenthood with a beautiful little girl, Ava and the loss of his wonderful wife, Jenny. Butch does the best he can with pizza dinners, but he’s missing so much more than cooking lessons. His daughter becomes his teacher and he finds 18 summers goes very fast.
Beth has prayed over her children every day of their lives. She’s asked God to give them spouses who are of His choosing. Beth has trusted the Lord all of her life, at least she thinks she’s trust Him until her faith is tested. When Beth’s daughter announces she’s marrying a pizza delivery boy, Beth falls apart. This was never in her plans for her daughter, Robin. As Beth realizes she’s tried to protect her children from anything hurtful or harmful, she also realizes she’s tried to control them out of God’s plan for each of them. Beth finds that 18 summers has flown by before she realized it and she never taught her daughter everything she could to make the perfect choices in life.
Daphne is pregnant with her first baby and she’s determined to do it right. She finds every book on pregnancy, parenting, and child care that she read. With all of the planning she’s doing, she finds herself in a place where she’s not trusting God for her life or the life of her child. Slowly in her psychotic planning and preparing, Daphne has alienated her husband, Tippy.
Charles and Helen have the perfect life. They dress perfectly, live in the perfect house, have perfect children, or at least it appears like that from the outside. Helen wants to give her children everything and Charles is driven enough to make that happen. But in all of their perfection, they are realizing 18 summers with their children is not something they can buy.
Each family faces their own trials and tribulations but all come to realize 18 summers is all they’re going to have with their children. Just 18 Summers is a fantastic read! I cannot say enough great things about the book. However, I can say that I’ll be adding books by both Rene Gutteridge and Michelle Cox on to my to be read list.
I received Just 18 Summers from the Book Club Network and Tyndale Publishing in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 6, 2016
Just 18 Summers, a novel by Rene Gutteridge and Michelle Cox, is inspiring, emotional, and God filled. This novel is told from the point of view of four different families and takes place after the tragic death of Butch Browning's wife, Jenny. Each family is at a different stage in life as well as parenthood and as the summer flies by they come to realize that the time they have with their children is precious and will not last forever. Butch, after losing his wife, has to deal with the struggles of being a single parent for a grieving eight year old little girl, as well as feeling lost and hopeless with grief of his own. The Anderson's are faced with an fast approaching empty nest as well as their daughter marrying a young man they know nothing about and do not yet approve of. The Buckley's, who are the Anderson's neighbors, are so focused on providing their kids with everything they could need and more that the have forgotten what their children desperately need from them, love and attention. The fourth family, the O'Reilly's are expecting their first child and dealing with the doubts and emotions that come with becoming a parent for the first time. Each family faces the truth of what really matters, that they have a limited time together as a family and need to make each moment count.
As I was reading this book I found myself laughing and crying throughout. I truly enjoyed this book, and even though I am not a mother myself I found that I could relate to what the characters were going through because of the fact that I have a little sister who is 12 years old and turning into a teenager faster than I would like. This book reminded me that time with her as a child is very fleeting. I need to make the most of her childhood now while I can. Pretty soon she will not want to be tucked in and kissed every night, she won't want to cuddle with me while watching a movie, and she probably will not ask for my advice like she does now.
I found that I within the four families I enjoyed reading and elated most to Butch's story, not because I am a single parent, but because my father was a single parent during my baby years, and I know first hand how much of a struggle it can be to provide everything for a family on your own.
The biggest takeaway for me from this novel is that I have to make every moment count. Life is short, whether or not we want it to be. We need to make the most out of every situation, good or bad. My favorite part of the entire book came on page 363 when I read this quote, "God is not at all restrained by time. What I've perhaps wasted, he can multiply miraculously." I love this quote for various reason but mainly because it is true and gives the reader hope in God, hope for mending the wasted moments in life.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from Tyndale House Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
As I was reading this book I found myself laughing and crying throughout. I truly enjoyed this book, and even though I am not a mother myself I found that I could relate to what the characters were going through because of the fact that I have a little sister who is 12 years old and turning into a teenager faster than I would like. This book reminded me that time with her as a child is very fleeting. I need to make the most of her childhood now while I can. Pretty soon she will not want to be tucked in and kissed every night, she won't want to cuddle with me while watching a movie, and she probably will not ask for my advice like she does now.
I found that I within the four families I enjoyed reading and elated most to Butch's story, not because I am a single parent, but because my father was a single parent during my baby years, and I know first hand how much of a struggle it can be to provide everything for a family on your own.
The biggest takeaway for me from this novel is that I have to make every moment count. Life is short, whether or not we want it to be. We need to make the most out of every situation, good or bad. My favorite part of the entire book came on page 363 when I read this quote, "God is not at all restrained by time. What I've perhaps wasted, he can multiply miraculously." I love this quote for various reason but mainly because it is true and gives the reader hope in God, hope for mending the wasted moments in life.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from Tyndale House Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
May 16, 2014
Disclosure: I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Synopsis:
After the tragic death of Butch Browning’s wife, Jenny, four families begin to realize how precious—and fleeting—their time together is. Each is at a different stage in life: Butch is facing single parenthood. The O’Reillys are expecting their first child. The Andersons are approaching an empty nest, and the Buckleys are so focused on providing their children with everything that they’ve forgotten what they truly need. With just eighteen summers before their children are grown, how do they make the most of that time when life so often gets in the way?
As summer flies by, each of these parents must learn about guilt and grace . . . and when to hold on to their kids and when to let go.
I laughed and cried a lot while I read this book. LOVED IT! Absolutely fantastic. Any mother would enjoy reading Just 18 Summers.
As a mom who has an almost six year old-going on sixteen-I’m ready for these 18 years to be over with and readily admit I am over the little person phase. This book challenged this thinking to my core. I realize I only have 12 more summers with my daughter Emma, and I need to start making these years count.
The view points in this book switch back and forth from the Andersons (Larry/Beth), Butch Browning (recently widowed), the O’Rilleys (Tippy/Daphine) and the Buckleys (Charles/Helen)- all of whom are raising children and trying their best to make each day count as each family faces life changes.
What I love the most about this book is the women’s view points, as they are all other mothers. I related the most to Beth on so many levels-wanting the best for her daughter-and laughed out loud at Daphne’s “nesting” during her pregnancy. Even Helen felt relatable as she wanted the best for herself and her family. Jenny, Butch Browning’s recently deceased wife, is at the heart of these families. As they grieve her loss and try to figure out their own lives, the characters wish for Jenny’s wisdom and presence. I learned a lot about Jenny as I read through the book and felt myself wanting to be like the godly woman that Jenny was.
The take away from this book would be life is too short. Jenny’s passing made this clear to the families in this book and how fast the time flies while you are raising a family. How should we make the moments count if life just passes us by? We should stop counting the moments and live in them.
Thank you Tyndale House for allowing me the opportunity to review this book! I have a list of moms who this book will be passed around to.
Synopsis:
After the tragic death of Butch Browning’s wife, Jenny, four families begin to realize how precious—and fleeting—their time together is. Each is at a different stage in life: Butch is facing single parenthood. The O’Reillys are expecting their first child. The Andersons are approaching an empty nest, and the Buckleys are so focused on providing their children with everything that they’ve forgotten what they truly need. With just eighteen summers before their children are grown, how do they make the most of that time when life so often gets in the way?
As summer flies by, each of these parents must learn about guilt and grace . . . and when to hold on to their kids and when to let go.
I laughed and cried a lot while I read this book. LOVED IT! Absolutely fantastic. Any mother would enjoy reading Just 18 Summers.
As a mom who has an almost six year old-going on sixteen-I’m ready for these 18 years to be over with and readily admit I am over the little person phase. This book challenged this thinking to my core. I realize I only have 12 more summers with my daughter Emma, and I need to start making these years count.
The view points in this book switch back and forth from the Andersons (Larry/Beth), Butch Browning (recently widowed), the O’Rilleys (Tippy/Daphine) and the Buckleys (Charles/Helen)- all of whom are raising children and trying their best to make each day count as each family faces life changes.
What I love the most about this book is the women’s view points, as they are all other mothers. I related the most to Beth on so many levels-wanting the best for her daughter-and laughed out loud at Daphne’s “nesting” during her pregnancy. Even Helen felt relatable as she wanted the best for herself and her family. Jenny, Butch Browning’s recently deceased wife, is at the heart of these families. As they grieve her loss and try to figure out their own lives, the characters wish for Jenny’s wisdom and presence. I learned a lot about Jenny as I read through the book and felt myself wanting to be like the godly woman that Jenny was.
The take away from this book would be life is too short. Jenny’s passing made this clear to the families in this book and how fast the time flies while you are raising a family. How should we make the moments count if life just passes us by? We should stop counting the moments and live in them.
Thank you Tyndale House for allowing me the opportunity to review this book! I have a list of moms who this book will be passed around to.
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