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The Blossoming Summer
When English thirteen-year-old Rosemary is sent to stay with her American grandmother at the start of World War II, she uncovers the family secret: they are Anishinaabe.
The year is 1940. England is all Rosemary has ever known . . . but as World War II changes the world, her life is altered as well. With France conquered, she, her parents, and her little brothers flee to America to escape the coming Blitz. Her grandmother’s house in Northern Wisconsin is safe, but unfamiliar—and she soon discovers that her parents have kept a tremendous secret.
Rosemary and her family are Anishinaabe . . . and her father is not proud of it.
Grandmother, however, is. A fashionable, independent, and fiery-minded old lady, she begins to teach Rosemary Anishinaabemowin. Far from home, but newly connected to a once-hidden part of her identity, Rosemary develops a warm, close relationship with Grandmother Charlotte—and with a local boy whose love of gardening helps her to see the beauty in her unexpected circumstances. As Rosemary grows into her new life like a flower in bloom, she realizes that maybe she’s not as far from home as she thought.
The year is 1940. England is all Rosemary has ever known . . . but as World War II changes the world, her life is altered as well. With France conquered, she, her parents, and her little brothers flee to America to escape the coming Blitz. Her grandmother’s house in Northern Wisconsin is safe, but unfamiliar—and she soon discovers that her parents have kept a tremendous secret.
Rosemary and her family are Anishinaabe . . . and her father is not proud of it.
Grandmother, however, is. A fashionable, independent, and fiery-minded old lady, she begins to teach Rosemary Anishinaabemowin. Far from home, but newly connected to a once-hidden part of her identity, Rosemary develops a warm, close relationship with Grandmother Charlotte—and with a local boy whose love of gardening helps her to see the beauty in her unexpected circumstances. As Rosemary grows into her new life like a flower in bloom, she realizes that maybe she’s not as far from home as she thought.
288 pages, Hardcover
Published July 29, 2025
17 people are currently reading
3455 people want to read
About the author
Anna Rose Johnson
4 books297 followersStorytelling has always been a part of Anna Rose Johnson’s life—especially timeless tales tinged with vintage charm. She grew up fascinated by the early 20th century and now writes historical middle grade novels that reflect her love of classic children’s literature. A member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, Anna Rose enjoys exploring her heritage through her stories, including her debut middle grade novel, The Star That Always Stays. Anna Rose lives on a farm in northern Wisconsin along with a delightful assortment of ponies, dogs, flowers, vegetables, and honey bees. You can visit her bookish blog at: http://annarosejohnson.com/blog/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
August 29, 2025
2025 reads: 233/300
i received a finished copy from the publisher as part of their influencer program. i am leaving this review voluntarily.
thirteen-year-old rosemary has been separated from her parents and brothers for the last three years because of the hardships of the war. now, they’ve been brought together, and they’re on their way to meet her grandmother in america. rosemary isn’t sure why the relationship between her dad and grandmother is so tense, but she’s determined to make peace between them. as she learns about her anishinaabe heritage and about gardening, she finds ways to include her other family members.
while this book had a lot of tense parts (war, strained family relationships, mentions of racism), this remained hopeful, which i loved. rosemary had such high hopes for life in america with her grandmother. of course, things didn’t go as planned, but she found other ways to make things work. i especially appreciated how she went from not knowing about her heritage to frequently using some anishinaabemowin phrases in conversation, learned from her grandmother in tandem with her gardening knowledge. she then used this knowledge to help bring her family together. rosemary really was the textbook definition of eldest daughter syndrome.
i recommend this to anyone interested in a historical MG novel.
i received a finished copy from the publisher as part of their influencer program. i am leaving this review voluntarily.
thirteen-year-old rosemary has been separated from her parents and brothers for the last three years because of the hardships of the war. now, they’ve been brought together, and they’re on their way to meet her grandmother in america. rosemary isn’t sure why the relationship between her dad and grandmother is so tense, but she’s determined to make peace between them. as she learns about her anishinaabe heritage and about gardening, she finds ways to include her other family members.
while this book had a lot of tense parts (war, strained family relationships, mentions of racism), this remained hopeful, which i loved. rosemary had such high hopes for life in america with her grandmother. of course, things didn’t go as planned, but she found other ways to make things work. i especially appreciated how she went from not knowing about her heritage to frequently using some anishinaabemowin phrases in conversation, learned from her grandmother in tandem with her gardening knowledge. she then used this knowledge to help bring her family together. rosemary really was the textbook definition of eldest daughter syndrome.
i recommend this to anyone interested in a historical MG novel.
August 8, 2025
See my interview with Anna Rose Johnson here!
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Oh, I loved The Blossoming Summer! It was wonderful and funny and deep and sweet. I finally found a middle grade book that handles adultification rightly! And there's a map! And chapter titles! I felt like I was there in the north woods of Wisconsin with Rosemary and her grandmother. I would read a whole series about this family (and a sequel to The Star That Always Stays, pretty please!). It was fun to journey from England to Wisconsin with Rosemary and to be settled in one of my favorite literary landscapes again. Anna Rose Johnson is my favorite contemporary middle-grade writer and it is a pleasure to see her craft increase with each novel.
I loved the story arc and the characters' growth and relationships. This is perfect to read before visiting the county or state fair. I cried three times. Can't recommend highly enough for the middle-grade reader in your life, or for you, who probably needs a pick-me-up at this point in the summer. I certainly did, and The Blossoming Summer was the balm my heart needed.
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Oh, I loved The Blossoming Summer! It was wonderful and funny and deep and sweet. I finally found a middle grade book that handles adultification rightly! And there's a map! And chapter titles! I felt like I was there in the north woods of Wisconsin with Rosemary and her grandmother. I would read a whole series about this family (and a sequel to The Star That Always Stays, pretty please!). It was fun to journey from England to Wisconsin with Rosemary and to be settled in one of my favorite literary landscapes again. Anna Rose Johnson is my favorite contemporary middle-grade writer and it is a pleasure to see her craft increase with each novel.
I loved the story arc and the characters' growth and relationships. This is perfect to read before visiting the county or state fair. I cried three times. Can't recommend highly enough for the middle-grade reader in your life, or for you, who probably needs a pick-me-up at this point in the summer. I certainly did, and The Blossoming Summer was the balm my heart needed.
July 15, 2025
5+ stars (6/10 hearts). When I heard Anna Rose Johnson was writing a WWII novel, I was THRILLED! I love WW2 novels and I love Anna Rose Johnson's vintagey writing that captures childhood so well. The story wasn't exactly what I expected, but I still enjoyed it.
Rosemary was the quintessential eldest daughter, and as an eldest daughter myself I related SO deeply to her. Her narration was so good and I appreciated her dual love for England & America. I had trouble respecting her father, though he ended up pretty good; but her mother was sweet, and I liked the Grandmother... until the end. I was really disappointed by Still, she was a delightfully strong and eccentric old lady, though, and I appreciated her relationship with the children. Speaking of children, the cousin ended up pretty nice as well, and Rosemary's brothers were really good. J was sweet too. I just wish Beryl had been a bigger part of the book (she was epic!) and somehow I really liked Aunt Katie Alexandra.
This story really captures the beauty and life of summer, and I loved that juxtaposition with World War Two. It was also a lovely exploration of the struggles of oldest children, as well as heritage + culture. The message of unity and beauty was perfect and so good. Overall, it was charming.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
Rosemary was the quintessential eldest daughter, and as an eldest daughter myself I related SO deeply to her. Her narration was so good and I appreciated her dual love for England & America. I had trouble respecting her father, though he ended up pretty good; but her mother was sweet, and I liked the Grandmother... until the end. I was really disappointed by Still, she was a delightfully strong and eccentric old lady, though, and I appreciated her relationship with the children. Speaking of children, the cousin ended up pretty nice as well, and Rosemary's brothers were really good. J was sweet too. I just wish Beryl had been a bigger part of the book (she was epic!) and somehow I really liked Aunt Katie Alexandra.
This story really captures the beauty and life of summer, and I loved that juxtaposition with World War Two. It was also a lovely exploration of the struggles of oldest children, as well as heritage + culture. The message of unity and beauty was perfect and so good. Overall, it was charming.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
September 1, 2025
This is such a beautiful, gentle, hopeful story! I love the themes of gardening and heritage and that heroine Rosemary embodies these things in her name. Rosemary is both a plant and is for remembrance in the language of flowers. I love Rosemary’s longing for what she calls Paradise and the reunion of her family. It is her longing for these good things, for beauty and belonging, that brings the family together and helps them to forge new bonds where there once had been ignorance and strife. And her Paradise becomes a reality with the garden at her Grandmother’s! So many biblical themes in an understated way. I love how Anna Rose weaves in Ojibwe culture and language and how it’s Rosemary and Corinne who love learning about it and are committed to being proud of it.
I’m going to be recommending this to all my friends with girls. I know Anna Rose loves her classic children’s authors too. I picked up the fragrance of LM Montgomery, EB White, Elizabeth Enright (Gone Away Lake), and Frances Hodgson Burnett (The Secret Garden), especially.
I’m going to be recommending this to all my friends with girls. I know Anna Rose loves her classic children’s authors too. I picked up the fragrance of LM Montgomery, EB White, Elizabeth Enright (Gone Away Lake), and Frances Hodgson Burnett (The Secret Garden), especially.
Want to read
March 18, 2025oooh new Anna Rose Johnson book?
August 2, 2025
5✨!
🌷🌺🌸💐🌻
A sweet story with loveliness bursting through it as much as its cover. The characters are endearing and the themes so meaningful. I need a fourth Anna Rose Johnson now, please. 🥹🥰
💕💕💕
(Thank you to the author for this ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own. So sorry for being a couple of days late. 🙈)
🌷🌺🌸💐🌻
A sweet story with loveliness bursting through it as much as its cover. The characters are endearing and the themes so meaningful. I need a fourth Anna Rose Johnson now, please. 🥹🥰
💕💕💕
(Thank you to the author for this ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own. So sorry for being a couple of days late. 🙈)
September 5, 2025
This book was OK. I finished it rather quickly cause I wanted to not read it anymore, but I finished reading it because the plot was intriguing, but I did not like the writing. It was slow and boring. I can see how some people would like it but right now just was not the time for me to read this I wasn’t the biggest fan.
July 29, 2025
Anna Rose Johnson has done it again. I loved The Star That Always Stays, and when I found out that she was coming out with a WWII book, was so excited. The Blossoming Summer was all that I hoped for and more!
The characters in the book surprised me. Their personalities were strong, but they held secrets and complexities that continually made me look at them in a different way. Glamourous Mrs. Riviere, standoffish Corinne, Rosemary’s parents and brothers, and Rosemary herself. Rosemary's arc was so touching and well done.
I also loved the faith aspect—especially that the family found peace in wartime from God. Christianity was woven throughout the story, in an everyday way, as it was a part of the character's daily lives.
What else did I enjoy about this book? The setting was gorgeous, with flowers and lakes, and starry skies. And once again Johnson nailed the historical dialogue, that felt very natural and authentic. This was a very sweet story, and a perfect summer read.
The characters in the book surprised me. Their personalities were strong, but they held secrets and complexities that continually made me look at them in a different way. Glamourous Mrs. Riviere, standoffish Corinne, Rosemary’s parents and brothers, and Rosemary herself. Rosemary's arc was so touching and well done.
I also loved the faith aspect—especially that the family found peace in wartime from God. Christianity was woven throughout the story, in an everyday way, as it was a part of the character's daily lives.
What else did I enjoy about this book? The setting was gorgeous, with flowers and lakes, and starry skies. And once again Johnson nailed the historical dialogue, that felt very natural and authentic. This was a very sweet story, and a perfect summer read.
July 28, 2025
This was such a sweet story about family, perseverance, and a classic case of oldest sister syndrome! Rosemary was so relatable in her desire to fix everything for her family, and her Grandmother was a wonderful, sweet, conniving old lady character that won my heart.
August 3, 2025
After several years of separation due to the Great Depression, Rosemary and her family are reunited when they flee WW2 in England and return to her paternal grandmother’s home in Wisconsin. This is a hopeful story of rebirth and restoration as the family assists the grandmother in her garden.
The grandmother has illogically tied her winning blue ribbons at the fair to giving land to her son and his family to build a home. Only Rosemary knows her grandmother’s intentions, and she must keep them a secret, which is stressful for her as she only wants to keep her family together. Like all novels with a competition-based plot, this sets her up for disappointment, but then allows for her to grow in other ways. It was a bit dramatic.
The character of the father is very immature; I couldn’t decide if he seemed realistic, and it bothered me that his wife and children don’t recognize his flaws and that it isn’t more of the conflict.
The grandmother is Ojibwe, which adds depth to the story and characters, as Rosemary learns about this part of her identity. Toward the final pages, the father very suddenly gains self-awareness and the ability explain his experiences with racism and why he had hidden his Ojibwe identity for years. Overall, unfortunately, his character needed work for all of this to make sense.
Despite this weakness, I’m still willing to recommend, but I would not expect major awards. I always prefer books that promote the development of cultural literacy and build background knowledge for readers, and this definitely does. It is a light, cozy read, and I bought a copy for my 12 year old—it’s a great choice for girls looking for something that feels a little older. I could see this in the hands of readers who loved A Place to Hang the Moon.
The grandmother has illogically tied her winning blue ribbons at the fair to giving land to her son and his family to build a home. Only Rosemary knows her grandmother’s intentions, and she must keep them a secret, which is stressful for her as she only wants to keep her family together. Like all novels with a competition-based plot, this sets her up for disappointment, but then allows for her to grow in other ways. It was a bit dramatic.
The character of the father is very immature; I couldn’t decide if he seemed realistic, and it bothered me that his wife and children don’t recognize his flaws and that it isn’t more of the conflict.
The grandmother is Ojibwe, which adds depth to the story and characters, as Rosemary learns about this part of her identity. Toward the final pages, the father very suddenly gains self-awareness and the ability explain his experiences with racism and why he had hidden his Ojibwe identity for years. Overall, unfortunately, his character needed work for all of this to make sense.
Despite this weakness, I’m still willing to recommend, but I would not expect major awards. I always prefer books that promote the development of cultural literacy and build background knowledge for readers, and this definitely does. It is a light, cozy read, and I bought a copy for my 12 year old—it’s a great choice for girls looking for something that feels a little older. I could see this in the hands of readers who loved A Place to Hang the Moon.
August 26, 2025
I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher for promotional purposes.
What a charming story!
This is exactly the kind of story I would have devoured as a kid. Growing up, I loved historical fiction, especially niche stories of children evacuating WWII London. I also enjoyed stories set in quaint country houses. This book had both!
I loved how the book incorporated Native American culture. Part of the story involves the main character, Rosemary, discovering she is part Anishinaabe. Her Grandmother Charlotte teaches her about her heritage, including Anishinaabemowin words. Gardening was another central plot point and I loved learning about all the plants and flowers Grandmother Charlotte had. Her garden sounded like an absolute dream!
The cast of characters were well done. Rosemary was a delight and I really felt for her and how she had to act as mediator for her family at times. Grandmother Charlotte was a fascinating and complex woman. Rosemary’s cousin, Corinne, also had a great character arc.
I also enjoyed the writing style. It read like a children’s classic (similar to Anne of Green Gables and The Secret Garden).
The book includes a map of Grandmother Charlotte’s estate, which is always a nice touch. It made it even easier to visualize the story and track where the characters went. There’s also a glossary of Anishinaabemowin words for quick reference.
Overall, this was an endearing middle grade read. If you love children’s classics, you’ll love this one!
What a charming story!
This is exactly the kind of story I would have devoured as a kid. Growing up, I loved historical fiction, especially niche stories of children evacuating WWII London. I also enjoyed stories set in quaint country houses. This book had both!
I loved how the book incorporated Native American culture. Part of the story involves the main character, Rosemary, discovering she is part Anishinaabe. Her Grandmother Charlotte teaches her about her heritage, including Anishinaabemowin words. Gardening was another central plot point and I loved learning about all the plants and flowers Grandmother Charlotte had. Her garden sounded like an absolute dream!
The cast of characters were well done. Rosemary was a delight and I really felt for her and how she had to act as mediator for her family at times. Grandmother Charlotte was a fascinating and complex woman. Rosemary’s cousin, Corinne, also had a great character arc.
I also enjoyed the writing style. It read like a children’s classic (similar to Anne of Green Gables and The Secret Garden).
The book includes a map of Grandmother Charlotte’s estate, which is always a nice touch. It made it even easier to visualize the story and track where the characters went. There’s also a glossary of Anishinaabemowin words for quick reference.
Overall, this was an endearing middle grade read. If you love children’s classics, you’ll love this one!
September 28, 2025
“The Blossoming Summer” is a celebration of family relationships and the beauty of gardening. It’s a tribute to the time-honored tradition of the county fair and a gentle lesson in Ojibwe culture.
As the big sister, Rosemary is anxious to make everything perfect when her family finally gets back together after the challenges of World War II have separated them. But the violet she rescues from a victory garden in England becomes a symbol of her own life, unable to flourish until it could put down roots.
Through working together with her family towards a common goal—and a few mishaps along the way—Rosemary learns not to force perfection. “Sometimes we just need to let go, Rosy…and let things unfold naturally. And then beautiful moments do happen.”
Anna Rose Johnson's middle grade fiction is exactly the kind I love to have my daughters read. Through delightful but wholesome characters, important life lessons are conveyed without feeling forced or moralistic.
“‘You have to take care of something the way it needs to be cared for,’ said Grandmother, cutting off one more small bud. ‘Even if it doesn’t make sense to you.’”
As the big sister, Rosemary is anxious to make everything perfect when her family finally gets back together after the challenges of World War II have separated them. But the violet she rescues from a victory garden in England becomes a symbol of her own life, unable to flourish until it could put down roots.
Through working together with her family towards a common goal—and a few mishaps along the way—Rosemary learns not to force perfection. “Sometimes we just need to let go, Rosy…and let things unfold naturally. And then beautiful moments do happen.”
Anna Rose Johnson's middle grade fiction is exactly the kind I love to have my daughters read. Through delightful but wholesome characters, important life lessons are conveyed without feeling forced or moralistic.
“‘You have to take care of something the way it needs to be cared for,’ said Grandmother, cutting off one more small bud. ‘Even if it doesn’t make sense to you.’”
January 16, 2026
What was up with the grandma being a manipulative serial liar who was borderline crazy then faked having a serious life threatening injury ???
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 31, 2025
[⭐⭐⭐ — I liked it]
"My father wasn't ashamed of being who he was. And what he wanted was to find something in the sky that nobody had ever seen before. So now I want to. I think the stars do for me what the garden does for Grandmother—helps me to keep on with the old traditions. The sky is better than the land, anyway. No one ever ceded the stars."
The Blossoming Summer is one of those stories driven by the call to stop and smell the flowers. Its appeal is in its intentional character development, floral celebration, and wholesome insights into familial and racial harmony.
The story is very sweet, but honestly, I was expecting it to be a bit more serious. The war and racial & ethnic heritage were touched on pretty often but seemed like background themes. My instinct is to compare it against the author’s debut, but this one clearly (and reasonably) has its audience among lower middle grade and readers with an affinity for nature and gardens.
As always, Johnson’s family dynamics and character progress shone through with spirit and clarity. While the story is innocent and lighthearted, the characters live on the pages with an authenticity and humanity.
Rosemary is a great character with identifiable heart and goals. Her journey of maturity was a joy to follow, but sometimes the development felt heavy-handed. Overemphasis can sometimes be ideal for younger readers, but I got the sense that it was trying to fit a story structure more than letting the story flow freely.
Overall, The Blossoming Summer is a cheerful and light summer read that resonates well with its target audience and serves as a charming literary detour for anyone else who happens to pick it up!
(I swear Chat GPT didn’t write this, I don’t know why it sounds so stiff 😭 basically: nice sunny story, could’ve had more depth, I’m not the target audience anyway)
Thanks to the author and Edelweiss for the e-ARC; my review was voluntary, and my opinions are my own.
"My father wasn't ashamed of being who he was. And what he wanted was to find something in the sky that nobody had ever seen before. So now I want to. I think the stars do for me what the garden does for Grandmother—helps me to keep on with the old traditions. The sky is better than the land, anyway. No one ever ceded the stars."
The Blossoming Summer is one of those stories driven by the call to stop and smell the flowers. Its appeal is in its intentional character development, floral celebration, and wholesome insights into familial and racial harmony.
The story is very sweet, but honestly, I was expecting it to be a bit more serious. The war and racial & ethnic heritage were touched on pretty often but seemed like background themes. My instinct is to compare it against the author’s debut, but this one clearly (and reasonably) has its audience among lower middle grade and readers with an affinity for nature and gardens.
As always, Johnson’s family dynamics and character progress shone through with spirit and clarity. While the story is innocent and lighthearted, the characters live on the pages with an authenticity and humanity.
Rosemary is a great character with identifiable heart and goals. Her journey of maturity was a joy to follow, but sometimes the development felt heavy-handed. Overemphasis can sometimes be ideal for younger readers, but I got the sense that it was trying to fit a story structure more than letting the story flow freely.
Overall, The Blossoming Summer is a cheerful and light summer read that resonates well with its target audience and serves as a charming literary detour for anyone else who happens to pick it up!
(I swear Chat GPT didn’t write this, I don’t know why it sounds so stiff 😭 basically: nice sunny story, could’ve had more depth, I’m not the target audience anyway)
Thanks to the author and Edelweiss for the e-ARC; my review was voluntary, and my opinions are my own.
August 12, 2025
Rosemary has been separated from her family for three years, living with an aunt and uncle in London, at the beginning of the second world war. Her two brothers are living with relatives in far flung cities, and her parents are also living apart, looking for work. Everyone is pretty miserable.
And then Rosemary’s grandmother pays for all of them to come to America, to live in Wisconsin with her.
Rosemary is so pleased that her brothers and she will be back with her parents that she wants to make sure they never move again.
This is a lovely story of a girl who not only gets her family back, but learns that she is native American, Anishinaabe, and begins to learn a little of the language from her grandmother, who is quite proud of who she is.
I love the way the story is told, as though it is one of those L.M. Montgomery books, where things are super and lovely, and the family rallies around to try to win ribbons at the county fair.
The author has a way of drawing you in, and caring about her characters. This is the third book I have read by her, and I have loved each one.
This book came out at the end of July and I both devoured it, and tried to slow things down, to savour every page.
And then Rosemary’s grandmother pays for all of them to come to America, to live in Wisconsin with her.
Rosemary is so pleased that her brothers and she will be back with her parents that she wants to make sure they never move again.
This is a lovely story of a girl who not only gets her family back, but learns that she is native American, Anishinaabe, and begins to learn a little of the language from her grandmother, who is quite proud of who she is.
I love the way the story is told, as though it is one of those L.M. Montgomery books, where things are super and lovely, and the family rallies around to try to win ribbons at the county fair.
The author has a way of drawing you in, and caring about her characters. This is the third book I have read by her, and I have loved each one.
This book came out at the end of July and I both devoured it, and tried to slow things down, to savour every page.
January 20, 2026
Possibly my favorite book from Anna Rose!
I really enjoyed the very whimsical and middle grad tone of Rosemary. She’s worried about the things a middle schooler would be.
I really enjoyed the very whimsical and middle grad tone of Rosemary. She’s worried about the things a middle schooler would be.
August 12, 2025
After reading and enjoying The Luminous Life of Lucy Landry, I was curious when I saw that this book was going to be released soon. I’m so glad I took the chance to read this story! It’s a somewhat unique story because it features a family with an Anishinaabe/Ojibwe heritage, a perspective I haven’t seen in historical fiction very much. Due to our current cultural moment, I was a little afraid that that aspect of the story would be in there to make a point, but instead, it felt like a natural part of the overall story—I appreciated that!
The family element of the book was definitely my favorite. I loved watching Rosemary work her hardest to try to befriend her brothers and pull her whole family together again—after being separated as long as this family was, I can’t imagine how hard it would be to finally be reunited and try to regain lost time.
Then there’s the grandmother: A little strict, a little loving, and determined to have her own way on certain matters. I enjoyed getting to know her lighter side—and the scene with the whole family eating ham? Hilarious!
If you’re looking for a unique take on World War II that strongly features family values with a bit of exploration and a definite love of nature thrown in, I’d highly recommend you check this book out for any middle-graders (especially any girls) in your life. It’s a lighthearted, hope-filled, delightful read.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.
The family element of the book was definitely my favorite. I loved watching Rosemary work her hardest to try to befriend her brothers and pull her whole family together again—after being separated as long as this family was, I can’t imagine how hard it would be to finally be reunited and try to regain lost time.
Then there’s the grandmother: A little strict, a little loving, and determined to have her own way on certain matters. I enjoyed getting to know her lighter side—and the scene with the whole family eating ham? Hilarious!
If you’re looking for a unique take on World War II that strongly features family values with a bit of exploration and a definite love of nature thrown in, I’d highly recommend you check this book out for any middle-graders (especially any girls) in your life. It’s a lighthearted, hope-filled, delightful read.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.
August 10, 2025
Book Report: The Blossoming Summer
At First Glance: I would like to step right into this cover… dreamy.
The Gist: When English thirteen-year-old Rosemary is evacuated to her grandmother in America at the start of World War II, and she uncovers the family secret.
My Thoughts: This book made me feel like I was young again… bringing a backpack of books to the beach cabin and reading non-stop during the long summer days. TAKE ME BACK! This is a perfect Middle Grade to read in August…a good bridge to the next season. Plenty of characters to root for and shake your head at but then come to an understanding about. Rosemary has a place she likes to visit in her imagination… Paradise… and it was a delight to journey with her to what would become a place she would love in reality. This will make you want to visit old places, feel dirt in your hands and hug your loved ones.
My Question for Anna: I loved the gentle pace and tone…did you have any specific books or authors that inspired the cozy, historical atmosphere?
Thank you Holiday House for the gifted copy.
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
At First Glance: I would like to step right into this cover… dreamy.
The Gist: When English thirteen-year-old Rosemary is evacuated to her grandmother in America at the start of World War II, and she uncovers the family secret.
My Thoughts: This book made me feel like I was young again… bringing a backpack of books to the beach cabin and reading non-stop during the long summer days. TAKE ME BACK! This is a perfect Middle Grade to read in August…a good bridge to the next season. Plenty of characters to root for and shake your head at but then come to an understanding about. Rosemary has a place she likes to visit in her imagination… Paradise… and it was a delight to journey with her to what would become a place she would love in reality. This will make you want to visit old places, feel dirt in your hands and hug your loved ones.
My Question for Anna: I loved the gentle pace and tone…did you have any specific books or authors that inspired the cozy, historical atmosphere?
Thank you Holiday House for the gifted copy.
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
October 27, 2025
Rosemary has lived apart from her parents and younger brothers for three years as her parents have been looking for work that would keep both of them. Suddenly, she learns that they will all be living together--in America, not in England, because her grandmother has sent them passage. Her father, in particular, is willing to leave England even though he loves the country, because he sees how the war will catch up with them as it did him during World War I. Rosemary feels it is her job to make her entire family a unit, to keep the peace, but everything is much more complicated than she imagined as the family's hidden history and heritage is gradually revealed and as her grandmother's schemes come to light as well. Rosemary finds her peace in her grandmother's beautiful garden and hopes her family will, too.
September 26, 2025
I’ve wanted to read a book by this author for a while, so when I saw she had a new one coming out this summer it seemed like the perfect place to start. Although I was clearly looking forward to reading this, I did not expect to love it as much as I do! From the very beginning I was drawn into Rosemary’s world and cheered for her family. My heart pulled for the children separated from their family during the Depression and beginning of World War 2, and I was glad to see the family reunited early in the story. Then, of course, came the hard work of learning how to work together as a family again when everyone has been apart for a few years. Rosemary’s goal to be a peacemaker and help hold everyone together was both admirable and saddening – hers is an understandable mindset, and one I’m sure many children have had, but one that she shouldn’t have had to bear.
As the family moves from Europe to the United States and specifically her father’s childhood home in Wisconsin, the family became even more complicated and yet still more engaging and lovable. Getting to know Rosemary’s extended family alongside her was beautifully written. Everyone has their fears and strengths and is looking for their place to belong. Eventually, Rosemary thinks that she finds this in working with her family on Grandmother’s garden.
It’s not all roses and no thorns though – without giving away too much, there is a bit of blackmail, and Rosemary learns that her father has concealed a lot about their heritage. She continues to stress over whether her family will be able to stay together, what her cousin is up to when she spends so much time alone, and the effects of the war. There is also a short section about faith, trusting God, and finding peace in Him. I truly have no criticism with how any of this is handled. All aspects are addressed realistically and thoroughly enough for the age the book is aimed, and I would gladly recommend this book to any middle grade reader looking for a story about family, summer, the county fair, or simply an easy enjoyable read.
The Verdict:
The writing in The Blossoming Summer is as beautiful as the flowers in Grandmother’s garden. As stated above, I loved everything about this book. It’s a wonderful middle grade novel set shortly before the United States joined World War 2. Five shining stars and highly recommended.
As the family moves from Europe to the United States and specifically her father’s childhood home in Wisconsin, the family became even more complicated and yet still more engaging and lovable. Getting to know Rosemary’s extended family alongside her was beautifully written. Everyone has their fears and strengths and is looking for their place to belong. Eventually, Rosemary thinks that she finds this in working with her family on Grandmother’s garden.
It’s not all roses and no thorns though – without giving away too much, there is a bit of blackmail, and Rosemary learns that her father has concealed a lot about their heritage. She continues to stress over whether her family will be able to stay together, what her cousin is up to when she spends so much time alone, and the effects of the war. There is also a short section about faith, trusting God, and finding peace in Him. I truly have no criticism with how any of this is handled. All aspects are addressed realistically and thoroughly enough for the age the book is aimed, and I would gladly recommend this book to any middle grade reader looking for a story about family, summer, the county fair, or simply an easy enjoyable read.
The Verdict:
The writing in The Blossoming Summer is as beautiful as the flowers in Grandmother’s garden. As stated above, I loved everything about this book. It’s a wonderful middle grade novel set shortly before the United States joined World War 2. Five shining stars and highly recommended.
September 28, 2025
I really love every Anna Rose Johnson book I read! This was no exception.
October 5, 2025
IT was wonderful and beautiful. I loved it. Anna Rose Johnson is one of my favorite Authors.
October 14, 2025
Not your typical World War 2 book. I appreciate the glossary- I can tell the author knows the language and subject well and it means a lot to her.
August 22, 2025
3.5 stars
October 23, 2025
This was a very sweet read, while being very slow paced.
December 31, 2025
A sweet story of a family that has been separated, partly due to the war, and partly due to other things. I liked seeing the growth among family members, individually and together. And learning to appreciate one another, too. Anna Rose Johnson is a new author producing wholesome books for today's generation.
January 1, 2026
4 ★ - (really liked it!)
"The flowers were already beginning to button themselves up for the night, and the bumblebees were moving sleepily."
{Reviewed October 21st, 2025} ❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･
~ Note: I received an advanced reader copy from the author and I was not required to leave a positive review. All views expressed are my own. ~
What a lovely book! The first half I wasn't sure if I'd like it, because of the rift with Grandmother and the unpleasant handful of other relatives... oh but *after* that halfway mark, what a nice turn things took! Rosemary is darling, I like her better than Lucy Landry actually, and watching her character arc unfold was a treat. Us eldest sisters sure know how to shoulder too much responsibility, haha! The faith content was unexpected but simply perfect, I wish there were more WW2 stories with that aspect. And the imagery was beautiful... gardens, stars, sunny mornings, country fairs, falling in love with one's heritage, carousels, lantern-lit escapades, the generosity of grandmothers, laughter, digging through antiques in the attic!! And lines like "the whimsy of sunshine and shadow" ??!!! Splendid, I say.
The comradery about halfway put me in mind of Nesbit's books and the Penderwicks, and even a bit of Charlotte's Web. I definitely teared up near the end, where Rosemary comes clean about it all. And goodness it was so sweet watching them heal! Healing in so many aspects and relationships... it was especially interesting, though, as I'd never considered what it was like to be split up from your family during the war and suddenly brought together and learning to live again. Anywho, I ended up sincerely enjoying how things concluded... a sweetness I hadn't expected halfway in :))
❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･
Recommended to readers who love family, gardening, character driven stories, WW2 era, Native American heritage. Akin to The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall, Charlotte's Web, books by Edith Nesbit. Set in 1940s England and Michigan. Feels like Summer, in which the story takes place.
***Content Warnings, or things that caught my attention: "like an apparition", a bit of family dysfunction, war, anger, arguing, too much responsibility, injury, lying, crying, fear, bombing, secrets, hurt, a wee bit of manipulation, bossiness, some gossip, rudeness, jealousy, bratty behavior, a rumor of bullet holes in someone's house and gangs, broken treaties, pent up emotion, racism, trauma, getting in trouble with the law, silence, mentions deceased relatives, disappointment...
Side note: This was my first time reading through Edelweiss and while I know a lot of publishers and whatnot use it, I really disliked it, heh.
All thoughts are my own!
"The flowers were already beginning to button themselves up for the night, and the bumblebees were moving sleepily."
{Reviewed October 21st, 2025} ❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･
~ Note: I received an advanced reader copy from the author and I was not required to leave a positive review. All views expressed are my own. ~
What a lovely book! The first half I wasn't sure if I'd like it, because of the rift with Grandmother and the unpleasant handful of other relatives... oh but *after* that halfway mark, what a nice turn things took! Rosemary is darling, I like her better than Lucy Landry actually, and watching her character arc unfold was a treat. Us eldest sisters sure know how to shoulder too much responsibility, haha! The faith content was unexpected but simply perfect, I wish there were more WW2 stories with that aspect. And the imagery was beautiful... gardens, stars, sunny mornings, country fairs, falling in love with one's heritage, carousels, lantern-lit escapades, the generosity of grandmothers, laughter, digging through antiques in the attic!! And lines like "the whimsy of sunshine and shadow" ??!!! Splendid, I say.
The comradery about halfway put me in mind of Nesbit's books and the Penderwicks, and even a bit of Charlotte's Web. I definitely teared up near the end, where Rosemary comes clean about it all. And goodness it was so sweet watching them heal! Healing in so many aspects and relationships... it was especially interesting, though, as I'd never considered what it was like to be split up from your family during the war and suddenly brought together and learning to live again. Anywho, I ended up sincerely enjoying how things concluded... a sweetness I hadn't expected halfway in :))
❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･
Recommended to readers who love family, gardening, character driven stories, WW2 era, Native American heritage. Akin to The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall, Charlotte's Web, books by Edith Nesbit. Set in 1940s England and Michigan. Feels like Summer, in which the story takes place.
***Content Warnings, or things that caught my attention: "like an apparition", a bit of family dysfunction, war, anger, arguing, too much responsibility, injury, lying, crying, fear, bombing, secrets, hurt, a wee bit of manipulation, bossiness, some gossip, rudeness, jealousy, bratty behavior, a rumor of bullet holes in someone's house and gangs, broken treaties, pent up emotion, racism, trauma, getting in trouble with the law, silence, mentions deceased relatives, disappointment...
Side note: This was my first time reading through Edelweiss and while I know a lot of publishers and whatnot use it, I really disliked it, heh.
All thoughts are my own!
July 29, 2025
This might be my favourite book by Anna Rose Johnson, which says a lot because I have highly enjoyed each one! I read a lot of books set in this era and loved that this was an aspect of that time that hasn't been written about very often. I loved to see how the character blossomed as the story went on and rooted for her and her family. The author does such an amazing job of creating a heartwarming story while making her characters seem like real people with many layers who aren't perfect yet have so many redeeming qualities. Complex family relationships & societal issues are written perfectly for the intended demographic of this book. I can't wait to share this story with my teen. I think it will lead to some fruitful discussions. The story leads us from WWII England to Wisconsin, and the emotions experienced by the main character during the transition are so well conveyed. The Wisconsin setting is idyllic & fosters that inate longing for connection to nature we all have. This story is a beautiful, messy journey of a family that isn't to be missed!
Thanks so much to the author & Edelweiss for the ARC! Opinions expressed are my own.
Thanks so much to the author & Edelweiss for the ARC! Opinions expressed are my own.
March 30, 2025
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
It's 1940, and Rosemary Rivers parents, who have struggled with employment and have had to split up their children, have decided that it's no longer safe to stay in England. They decide to go to the US and stay with the father Leslie's estranged mother, Charlotte, in Wisconsin. Rosemary, who has been staying with an aunt, is looking forward to the move, even though she is apprehensive about reconnecting with her brothers, Patrick and Kenneth, whom she hasn't seen in five years. The journey by ship goes well, if a little awkwardly, and the family is fortunate that a man is willing to sell them a car for $22 at the end of their train ride. The grandmother's property is enormous, and had been run as a resort by her grandmother and her Aunt Ann, the wife of Leslie's deceased brother. Leslie and Charlotte often bickered, and the mother's controlling ways are what motivated Leslie to move away from home. At 72, she hasn't changed much, and tells her son right away that he needs to get a job. Rosemary is enthralled by the gardens, and makes friends with Jacob, who works on the property. Her grandmother is nice to her, taking her shopping for clothes, telling her about the family's Ojibwa heritage that the father has never discussed (the family name is really Rivière), and asking Rosemary for a big favor. Charlotte has always wanted to win all of the ribbons at the Sturges County Fair, but can't do it alone. Rosemary does her best, and encourages the rest of her family to help as well, which they do mainly because Charlotte has promised any cash prizes to them. Rosemary is also interested in the attic full of antiques that her cousin Corinne shows her, and a farmhouse on the property. Two days before the fair, when preparations are well underway, her grandmother slips on the stairs and has a concussion. The family bands together to get the produce and flowers to the fair, where they make a decent, but not winning, show. In the end, the grandmother doesn't care about the winnings; she is just glad to be able to make peace with her son and his children, and even gifts the family part of the property that they can use for running a resort. Even with the war raging in Europe, Wisconsin is the paradise of which Rosemary has long dreamed.
Strengths:This is certainly a love letter to Wisconsin's Northwoods, and I have to admit to looking up some of the scenery on Google Earth as well as looking up some family resorts! There's enough about the poor conditions in England, and Rosemary's estrangement from her family, that Wisconsin does really seem like a paradise. It was good to see that her grandmother wasn't horrible, and that her father was able to make peace with his past, and even find a job. The descriptions of the flowers, the house, and the family items in the attic was wonderful. Johnson's other titles, The Luminous Life of Lucy Landry and The Star That Always Stay also showcase various aspects of Native American identities, and Rosemary's lack of knowledge about this part of her identity makes sense for the time period. This has a happy ending that had me envisioning the Rivers having a lovely time running their resort through the 1950s and 60s.
Weaknesses: This was very lovely, but a bit slow and atmospheric. Readers looking for action packed World War II titles will need to look elsewhere.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who are interested in homefront tales like Elliot's Louisa June and Nazis in the Waves, Albus' Nothing Else but Miracles, Cushman's The War and Millie McGonigle, or Giff's Gingersnap.
It's 1940, and Rosemary Rivers parents, who have struggled with employment and have had to split up their children, have decided that it's no longer safe to stay in England. They decide to go to the US and stay with the father Leslie's estranged mother, Charlotte, in Wisconsin. Rosemary, who has been staying with an aunt, is looking forward to the move, even though she is apprehensive about reconnecting with her brothers, Patrick and Kenneth, whom she hasn't seen in five years. The journey by ship goes well, if a little awkwardly, and the family is fortunate that a man is willing to sell them a car for $22 at the end of their train ride. The grandmother's property is enormous, and had been run as a resort by her grandmother and her Aunt Ann, the wife of Leslie's deceased brother. Leslie and Charlotte often bickered, and the mother's controlling ways are what motivated Leslie to move away from home. At 72, she hasn't changed much, and tells her son right away that he needs to get a job. Rosemary is enthralled by the gardens, and makes friends with Jacob, who works on the property. Her grandmother is nice to her, taking her shopping for clothes, telling her about the family's Ojibwa heritage that the father has never discussed (the family name is really Rivière), and asking Rosemary for a big favor. Charlotte has always wanted to win all of the ribbons at the Sturges County Fair, but can't do it alone. Rosemary does her best, and encourages the rest of her family to help as well, which they do mainly because Charlotte has promised any cash prizes to them. Rosemary is also interested in the attic full of antiques that her cousin Corinne shows her, and a farmhouse on the property. Two days before the fair, when preparations are well underway, her grandmother slips on the stairs and has a concussion. The family bands together to get the produce and flowers to the fair, where they make a decent, but not winning, show. In the end, the grandmother doesn't care about the winnings; she is just glad to be able to make peace with her son and his children, and even gifts the family part of the property that they can use for running a resort. Even with the war raging in Europe, Wisconsin is the paradise of which Rosemary has long dreamed.
Strengths:This is certainly a love letter to Wisconsin's Northwoods, and I have to admit to looking up some of the scenery on Google Earth as well as looking up some family resorts! There's enough about the poor conditions in England, and Rosemary's estrangement from her family, that Wisconsin does really seem like a paradise. It was good to see that her grandmother wasn't horrible, and that her father was able to make peace with his past, and even find a job. The descriptions of the flowers, the house, and the family items in the attic was wonderful. Johnson's other titles, The Luminous Life of Lucy Landry and The Star That Always Stay also showcase various aspects of Native American identities, and Rosemary's lack of knowledge about this part of her identity makes sense for the time period. This has a happy ending that had me envisioning the Rivers having a lovely time running their resort through the 1950s and 60s.
Weaknesses: This was very lovely, but a bit slow and atmospheric. Readers looking for action packed World War II titles will need to look elsewhere.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who are interested in homefront tales like Elliot's Louisa June and Nazis in the Waves, Albus' Nothing Else but Miracles, Cushman's The War and Millie McGonigle, or Giff's Gingersnap.
May 30, 2025
What worked:
Twelve-year-old Rosemary is reunited with her family after being separated for three years. World War II is going on in Europe, and her parents couldn’t afford to keep everyone together. Think how much her younger brothers have changed physically and mentally in three years. The reunion isn’t as happy as readers might expect, since the siblings are almost strangers from being apart for so long. Nearly half of the boys’ lives have been with a family that was not their own. Rosemary feels it’s her duty to reunite the family and help defuse any conflicts.
The book is all about relationships. Rosemary’s father and grandmother have been feuding for decades, and their conflict simmers throughout the book, with outbursts surfacing at times. Rosemary is upset when she discovers her father never taught her about their Indian and French-Canadian heritage. She finds it fascinating and important, while her father thinks it’s pointless. Rosemary’s cousin is also staying with Grandmother and has a superior, disinterested attitude. It’s heartwarming to watch their relationship grow, as they share feelings and dreams and start spending time together.
Grandmother’s garden becomes an important site for the characters, as she’s determined to win many categories and quiet the bragging of her neighbors. Rosemary brings a violet from England and secretly plants it next to the other flowers. She dreams of living in a meadow full of colorful flowers, and she calls this imaginary place “Paradise”. Grandmother recruits Rosemary to oversee most of the gardening, and Rosemary must convince her brothers and parents to help, too. This flower and vegetable garden is the catalyst that will bring healing and unity to the family.
What didn’t work as well:
From the book’s synopsis, readers might expect the Indian heritage to be a bigger factor, but it’s more of an issue between Grandmother and her son. Also, Rosemary promises to write letters to her friend back in England, and she works on a letter throughout the book. It might have felt better if she had actually sent more letters rather than one long one.
The final verdict:
This book tells an emotional story of family and feelings, as Rosemary tries to reunite her parents and siblings and heal the relationship between her father and grandmother. Including WW II adds historical context, and the simple life in the Wisconsin countryside is peaceful and beautiful. I recommend you give this heartwarming book a shot.
Twelve-year-old Rosemary is reunited with her family after being separated for three years. World War II is going on in Europe, and her parents couldn’t afford to keep everyone together. Think how much her younger brothers have changed physically and mentally in three years. The reunion isn’t as happy as readers might expect, since the siblings are almost strangers from being apart for so long. Nearly half of the boys’ lives have been with a family that was not their own. Rosemary feels it’s her duty to reunite the family and help defuse any conflicts.
The book is all about relationships. Rosemary’s father and grandmother have been feuding for decades, and their conflict simmers throughout the book, with outbursts surfacing at times. Rosemary is upset when she discovers her father never taught her about their Indian and French-Canadian heritage. She finds it fascinating and important, while her father thinks it’s pointless. Rosemary’s cousin is also staying with Grandmother and has a superior, disinterested attitude. It’s heartwarming to watch their relationship grow, as they share feelings and dreams and start spending time together.
Grandmother’s garden becomes an important site for the characters, as she’s determined to win many categories and quiet the bragging of her neighbors. Rosemary brings a violet from England and secretly plants it next to the other flowers. She dreams of living in a meadow full of colorful flowers, and she calls this imaginary place “Paradise”. Grandmother recruits Rosemary to oversee most of the gardening, and Rosemary must convince her brothers and parents to help, too. This flower and vegetable garden is the catalyst that will bring healing and unity to the family.
What didn’t work as well:
From the book’s synopsis, readers might expect the Indian heritage to be a bigger factor, but it’s more of an issue between Grandmother and her son. Also, Rosemary promises to write letters to her friend back in England, and she works on a letter throughout the book. It might have felt better if she had actually sent more letters rather than one long one.
The final verdict:
This book tells an emotional story of family and feelings, as Rosemary tries to reunite her parents and siblings and heal the relationship between her father and grandmother. Including WW II adds historical context, and the simple life in the Wisconsin countryside is peaceful and beautiful. I recommend you give this heartwarming book a shot.
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