Taking Back August

by R.B. Shifman

224 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 23, 2026

About the author

R.B. Shifman (he/him) is an author of young adult novels and horror short stories, the latter written as Richard Shifman. R.B.’s coming-of-age novel, PAPER AIRPLANE, BROKEN BONES, was named a Finalist for the 2025 Somerset Book Award for Literary & Contemporary Fiction; the story is set in Fort Lauderdale in the 1980s and inspired by his experience with a progenitor of today’s troubled teen industry. R.B.’s anti-fascist, YA dystopian novel, WE WERE THE CUCKOO BEES, was released in February 2026. His YA contemporary novel, TAKING BACK AUGUST, was released in June 2026. R.B. is a market research contractor by day and lives near Doylestown, Pennsylvania with his wife, who is also his partner in teaching ESL.

The SAVAGE SPELLS trilogy has been discontinued and is not currently available online.

Reviews

[Kenneth Knox · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was a bit different from the other works I have read by this author, but I really liked it. Every one goes through a time where we question our identity, who we are , how do we belong, as we question the world around us. This story explores those ideas in a unique and engaging way it takes some interesting turns and is not what I expected going in (which is high praise). I am greatly enjoying each new book by this author. I eagerly await the next!

[Jessica Christie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Taking Back August is a poignant coming-of-age story... Blending family secrets with a powerful exploration of identity and belonging, Shifman crafts a journey of self-discovery through memorable characters and steadily unfolding revelations that keep pages turning.

[Jeanine Waldron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great one from Shifman. This did
had me reading quickly since the plot was so engaging. The plot twist was wonderfully shocking and the ending quite moving

[David Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

David Thompson
Thu, Jul 2, 8:22 PM (11 hours ago)


No surprises, not in terms of another masterful tale written by Mr. Shifman, anyway. I've come to expect that every time I grab a book with this author's name on the cover. As to the plot? Well, brace yourselves. There are more twists in this bumpy road than on a Four Wheel Drive mountain trail. Surprises and family secrets are revealed, relationships are reinvented, and horrors are brought to light. Not feeling accepted or fitting in is not unusual for a teenage boy. The past injustices and emotional and mental abuse are well portrayed by the author, along with the reactions from the characters. They spring to life within these pages, all hoping and searching for... something. For cosplayer Cat LaVille, nerdy Joseph Dieb, and their friends, life as they've known it will be forever changed. Definitely recommend. You NEED to read this one.

[Laura Flavin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taking Back August by R.B. Shifman is a compelling work of fiction that invites readers into a story centered around personal journeys, emotional discovery, and the complexities of moving forward.

With its engaging premise and character-driven storytelling, the novel explores themes of change, resilience, and the ways people navigate pivotal moments in their lives. The title suggests a powerful reflection on reclaiming something meaningful whether that be time, identity, relationships, or a sense of purpose.

The story offers readers an opportunity to connect with characters facing challenges and seeking transformation, making it a thoughtful choice for those who enjoy emotionally grounded fiction with relatable human experiences.

A promising read for audiences who appreciate stories about personal growth, second chances, and the moments that shape who we become.

[William Donahue · Rating 5 out of 5]

R.B. Shifman tells my favorite kinds of stories, about relatable characters thrust into complex and thorny situations. Taking Back August—a story about the family we’re given, the family we choose, and the lengths we’ll go to reclaim what we have lost—might be his best novel yet. Full review to come ...

[Monica Manolas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great storyline, good pacing and lots of good plot twists and turns. Shifman is a great YA writer with many more stories to tell. This one is a quick read that will get you thinking about what family really means and the lengths we will go to protect the ones who we love and who love us.