I was reading this book before going to bed, and being warm and cozy while reading it, I suppose that memories of the book overall opinion mighttt be affected a little by this. But, still. In summary-
This book is cute. I liked the summer school and the new friends that were made (Kira most of all!) and something about the ‘Summer of Emma’ feels very nostalgic. I did read the novels when I was a lot younger, so maybe that’s it…? Anyways, although I had some positive feelings while reading, there were also some nitpicks I had with the book-
Firstly, Emma gets to model for a literal celebrity just because she happens to look like the women’s relative?!? It’s so unrealistic. I don’t know, it’s okay for books to go overboard with fun scenarios sometimes, but this did feel like a little much.
And secondly, as always, I need to talk about the art. Honestly, I feel bad saying this! I’m sure the deadlines are tight, and the artist is the same for every book, so I’m sure they are doing their best. But… the artist leaves much to be desired. Like not only is it hyper simple with little to no shading or background and outfit detail, there are often errors. I saw one scene where behind Katie, a white glob was present behind her, which I assume was a mistake. I think they should hire more artists, I’d be just fine with style changes from book to book, like The Baby-Sitters Club. You know how I said that it was unbelievable that Emma got to model for the celebrity. And yeah, it still is, but I bet she really does look just like the women’s relative. Sydney looks like Emma’s clone, and the worker at Mona’s shop looks like Emma’s mom. Long story short? All blondes in this series are nearly impossible to tell apart.
Also some of the dialogue drove me insane. When Emma is modeling a slightly high-slit dress for the women, the woman gasps and replies very negatively. But then worried she might’ve hurt Emma’s feelings, she adds; ‘I just react very strongly to young girls dressed inappropriately’ Maybe it’s just a me thing, but this line of dialogue was so unbelievable and awkward.
Despite my nitpicks, I’d still recommend the book to kids. There wasn’t much to the story- but it was still fun.
(This book contains a child vomitting (entirely censored), a minor girl wearing a slightly high slit dress, and talk of dead parents. I’d give this book an age rating of 7+!)