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Second Dad Summer Lib/E
Jeremiah just wants a normal summer with his dad. But his dad has moved in with his new boyfriend Michael, who serves weird organic food and is constantly nagging him. Worst of all, Michael rides a bicycle decorated to look like a unicorn. This is not the summer Jeremiah wanted. But Jeremiah soon learns that being a family comes in many surprising forms.
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First published August 1, 2020
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About the author
Benjamin Klas
3 books10 followersPronouns: ze/zem/zer or he/him/his
Benjamin Klas is a Queer author from Saint Paul, MN. He lives with his partner and son. Second Dad Summer (One Elm, 2020) was his first novel; the sequel, Everything Together, came out 2021.
Benjamin Klas is a Queer author from Saint Paul, MN. He lives with his partner and son. Second Dad Summer (One Elm, 2020) was his first novel; the sequel, Everything Together, came out 2021.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
January 15, 2022
The book ended?! What?
Seriously! Why?
I wanted more!
I have never read a middle grade fiction this down to earth which made me cry tears of sadness and happiness at the same time.
The story is so heartwarming. And the characters are so well developed. The character representation is well done and this is one of those unbelievably short books where there are multiple characters which are developed really good.
Even though I would say the main theme tackled of the plot is LGBTQ/sexuality representation, it's more so about acceptance and found family. I never thought this book would be this hard hitting.
The writing is just incredible! I learnt a lot of things regarding gender and sexuality. The writing doesn't go overboard when it comes to the explanations and discussion. I cannot explain how well the author has written about such topics.
I totally love the character dynamics. There's the girl Sage who came be friends with Jeremiah (our main protagonist). I just love her personality and the way she handles tough situations in a very sensible way for her age. And yes, she has two moms who I adore a lot! The story starts with Jeremiah having difficulties in facing the divorce of his parents and living with his dad and his boyfriend, Michael. And there's one special character, the old mean neighbour, Mr. Kleeney.
This book handles some other sensitive issues like death and grief. It simply broke my heart but the way this book has been written is so damn amazing that it makes me hopeful instead of getting lost in a world of sadness and tears.
Everything was good but from sixty percent of the book onwards I was tearing up for every page till the last page. Damn. Wearing long sleeves won't be enough. Keep a box of tissues nearby when you read this one.
This book is so well done.
And yes, this is going to be in the list of my most favourite middle grade books of all times.
Seriously, #NetGalley I am so indebted to you for this amazing book #SecondDadSummer
*I started reading this book at the beginning of March 2020, deliberately left it at around sixty percent and picked it up again in April 2020 because the book was so good and it fitted perfectly for the PRIDE month!
And that is the only time I saved something really good to celebrate something important.
And you know what?
I remembered each and every character, each and every scene and dialogue exchanges between the characters when I picked it up again after a gap of almost one month.
Yes, this book is incredible I told you!
Seriously! Why?
I wanted more!
I have never read a middle grade fiction this down to earth which made me cry tears of sadness and happiness at the same time.
The story is so heartwarming. And the characters are so well developed. The character representation is well done and this is one of those unbelievably short books where there are multiple characters which are developed really good.
Even though I would say the main theme tackled of the plot is LGBTQ/sexuality representation, it's more so about acceptance and found family. I never thought this book would be this hard hitting.
The writing is just incredible! I learnt a lot of things regarding gender and sexuality. The writing doesn't go overboard when it comes to the explanations and discussion. I cannot explain how well the author has written about such topics.
I totally love the character dynamics. There's the girl Sage who came be friends with Jeremiah (our main protagonist). I just love her personality and the way she handles tough situations in a very sensible way for her age. And yes, she has two moms who I adore a lot! The story starts with Jeremiah having difficulties in facing the divorce of his parents and living with his dad and his boyfriend, Michael. And there's one special character, the old mean neighbour, Mr. Kleeney.
This book handles some other sensitive issues like death and grief. It simply broke my heart but the way this book has been written is so damn amazing that it makes me hopeful instead of getting lost in a world of sadness and tears.
Everything was good but from sixty percent of the book onwards I was tearing up for every page till the last page. Damn. Wearing long sleeves won't be enough. Keep a box of tissues nearby when you read this one.
This book is so well done.
And yes, this is going to be in the list of my most favourite middle grade books of all times.
Seriously, #NetGalley I am so indebted to you for this amazing book #SecondDadSummer
*I started reading this book at the beginning of March 2020, deliberately left it at around sixty percent and picked it up again in April 2020 because the book was so good and it fitted perfectly for the PRIDE month!
And that is the only time I saved something really good to celebrate something important.
And you know what?
I remembered each and every character, each and every scene and dialogue exchanges between the characters when I picked it up again after a gap of almost one month.
Yes, this book is incredible I told you!
January 24, 2019
Second Dad Summer is a fun, tender, and important story about all the best things in life: family, friends, community, and all the ways they intersect. Jeremiah takes readers along on his summer journey where he opens his heart, and ours, to new people and new places. I loved the tribute to Minneapolis: our beloved lakes, Pride festival, the library, and more. Benjamin Klas has written a wonderful book--I can’t wait to get Second Dad Summer into the hands of readers!
January 24, 2020
I loved every inch of this book. It had all the components of a fantastic book: diversity, inclusion, love, friendship, death, and gardening! It is so important for readers to be able to see themselves in books or to be able to live a vicarious experience through a character unlike themselves (books as mirrors, windows, or sliding glass doors (Rudine Sims Bishop). This is the first book I've ever read that is meant for middle grade youth and uses the word bisexual. I wish I had been able to read a book like this one when I was in middle school. I laughed, cried, and cheered along with Jeremiah as he navigated spending the summer with his father and his boyfriend and making new friendship with Sage and Mr. Keeler. I was able to relate to so many parts of this story and I enjoyed the Minneapolis setting. It felt like I was reading about people I knew. Thank you Benjamin Klas for writing this much needed book. You knocked it out of the park and I hope you have a sequel in the works. These characters are too rich and important to stop at just one story.
May 31, 2021
I'm expecting that some folks won't be happy with my comments, but my opinion is.. well... my opinion!
Overall, I feel the author succeeded in his premise: first impressions are not always correct. It's not really much of a spoiler to say that Jeremiah comes to accept Michael as his stepfather; this aspect works well for kids with subsequent parental relationships of any gender. Full credit to the author on that! I liked the secondary characters in the book quite a bit, especially Sage and Mr. Keebler. Although, I would've liked to have had a bit more about Keebler's sister's implied attitude change developed, rather than just presented.
I'm not going to talk much about Jeremiah, who struck me as a believable character, except to say that I found the phone calls with his mother a bit awkward, especially regarding his father. I'm tempted to say that Al's bisexuality was presented in a rather... odd manner. But, everyone is different, so that presentation is as valid as any other.
My issue with the story is that I found it required some serious suspension-of-disbelief (for me anyway). Here comes the awkward part: the environment presented in Minneapolis is just too gay. It happens, but few LGBT folks are immersed in quite such surroundings. I suppose it's life in 2021, but Sage's "clarification" re: gender pronouns came across as subtle lecturing to me. It's fairly clear the author had a literal "diversity checklist" to complete.
That having been said, I'd definitely recommend the story, which would likely work well for kids facing similar, if not exact, circumstances.
Overall, I feel the author succeeded in his premise: first impressions are not always correct. It's not really much of a spoiler to say that Jeremiah comes to accept Michael as his stepfather; this aspect works well for kids with subsequent parental relationships of any gender. Full credit to the author on that! I liked the secondary characters in the book quite a bit, especially Sage and Mr. Keebler. Although, I would've liked to have had a bit more about Keebler's sister's implied attitude change developed, rather than just presented.
I'm not going to talk much about Jeremiah, who struck me as a believable character, except to say that I found the phone calls with his mother a bit awkward, especially regarding his father. I'm tempted to say that Al's bisexuality was presented in a rather... odd manner. But, everyone is different, so that presentation is as valid as any other.
My issue with the story is that I found it required some serious suspension-of-disbelief (for me anyway). Here comes the awkward part: the environment presented in Minneapolis is just too gay. It happens, but few LGBT folks are immersed in quite such surroundings. I suppose it's life in 2021, but Sage's "clarification" re: gender pronouns came across as subtle lecturing to me. It's fairly clear the author had a literal "diversity checklist" to complete.
That having been said, I'd definitely recommend the story, which would likely work well for kids facing similar, if not exact, circumstances.
October 19, 2022
Since his parents divorce, Jer (aka Jeremiah, Jer Bear) spends summers with his Dad in Minneapolis. This summer is different; Dad has a boyfriend . Enjoy the sights and sounds of a summer in Minneapolis while Jeremiah sorts out his feelings about Dad's beau, Michael.
If you're looking for books for tween about parents who identify on the lgbtq+ spectrum, this book and it's sequel by debut author Benjamin Klas are perfect!
If you're looking for books for tween about parents who identify on the lgbtq+ spectrum, this book and it's sequel by debut author Benjamin Klas are perfect!
August 3, 2020
This book should be in all middle school libraries!
What was I thinking- it should be in all libraries! And I think required reading for all middle school students, and maybe even those younger- it'd be a perfect read for parents and kids to discuss.
Second Dad Summer is an entertaining, heart-warming, thought-provoking read. Jeremiah learns a lot about himself, life, love, and friendship the summer he spends with his dad, and his dad's new boyfriend. I loved the relationships that were built and developed in this book and I liked how Jeremiah started to see things, and people, in a different light. His friendship with Sage especially helped him in that respect. She made him see that "normal" wasn't necessarily better.
I loved how diverse this book was, in all aspects. And how things were presented in an age-appropriate manner, but didn't shy away from some tough topics
I really enjoyed everything about this sweet story, even if it made me cry!
What was I thinking- it should be in all libraries! And I think required reading for all middle school students, and maybe even those younger- it'd be a perfect read for parents and kids to discuss.
Second Dad Summer is an entertaining, heart-warming, thought-provoking read. Jeremiah learns a lot about himself, life, love, and friendship the summer he spends with his dad, and his dad's new boyfriend. I loved the relationships that were built and developed in this book and I liked how Jeremiah started to see things, and people, in a different light. His friendship with Sage especially helped him in that respect. She made him see that "normal" wasn't necessarily better.
I loved how diverse this book was, in all aspects. And how things were presented in an age-appropriate manner, but didn't shy away from some tough topics
I really enjoyed everything about this sweet story, even if it made me cry!
March 9, 2020
A compelling book about acceptance, community, and new beginnings.
As his parents are divorced, Jeremiah spends the school summer holidays with his dad. Only this time, it won't just be the two of them - Michael, his dad's annoying boyfriend will be there too. It's embarrassing when he rides around on a unicorn bike and attracts way too much attention. Jeremiah just wants it to be him and his dad. During his time outside (in an attempt to avoid Michael), Jeremiah meets Sage and they have a lot more in common than they first realize. He also meets a grumpy old neighbour, who clearly dislikes Michael (much to Jeremiah's satisfaction). But then something unexpected happens, bringing Michael and Jeremiah closer than either could have expected. Will Jeremiah finally accept him as a part of the family?
I really enjoyed this middle-grade book and thought it tackled the topic of LGBTQ+ sensitively yet thoroughly in a way that was engaging rather than forced. I'm so glad that the taboo is finally lifting, as this book highlighted that having LGBTQ+ family, friends, neighbours, etc is completely normal and not something to be ashamed or embarrassed by. My favourite quote from the book is where Sage and one of her mums, and Jeremiah and his dad are walking to the parade together. Jeremiah says "We probably look like a normal family" to which Sage replies "Not normal, just straight." I thought it was such a simple, yet powerful response that shows how being part of an LGTBQ+ family is no different than being part of a straight family. The characters were relatable and the whole story had a great pace with lots of action. I would 100% recommend this to all middle-graders and think the morals of love and acceptance are incredibly relevant.
As his parents are divorced, Jeremiah spends the school summer holidays with his dad. Only this time, it won't just be the two of them - Michael, his dad's annoying boyfriend will be there too. It's embarrassing when he rides around on a unicorn bike and attracts way too much attention. Jeremiah just wants it to be him and his dad. During his time outside (in an attempt to avoid Michael), Jeremiah meets Sage and they have a lot more in common than they first realize. He also meets a grumpy old neighbour, who clearly dislikes Michael (much to Jeremiah's satisfaction). But then something unexpected happens, bringing Michael and Jeremiah closer than either could have expected. Will Jeremiah finally accept him as a part of the family?
I really enjoyed this middle-grade book and thought it tackled the topic of LGBTQ+ sensitively yet thoroughly in a way that was engaging rather than forced. I'm so glad that the taboo is finally lifting, as this book highlighted that having LGBTQ+ family, friends, neighbours, etc is completely normal and not something to be ashamed or embarrassed by. My favourite quote from the book is where Sage and one of her mums, and Jeremiah and his dad are walking to the parade together. Jeremiah says "We probably look like a normal family" to which Sage replies "Not normal, just straight." I thought it was such a simple, yet powerful response that shows how being part of an LGTBQ+ family is no different than being part of a straight family. The characters were relatable and the whole story had a great pace with lots of action. I would 100% recommend this to all middle-graders and think the morals of love and acceptance are incredibly relevant.
May 16, 2019
A lovely book about one of the hardest thing in any kid's life (or adults for that matter!): change. Jeremiah's dad is now living with his new partner, Michael, and Jeremiah just isn't quite sure how to feel about this new adult in his life.
In a book that could have easily slid into sappiness, instead Klas does a wonderful job of keeping it warm, sweet, and soulful but very real. The characters, from Jeremiah's dad to his new friend, Sage, are fully realized. Mr. Keeler, a curmudgeony man next door, adds a vital element of cynicism at times.
The book also deals deftly and smartly in its depiction of the vibrant and diverse LGBT community. Jeremiah's challenges with Michael aren't so much the fact that his dad is now dating a man, but Michael's own idiosyncrasies and personality (and, of course, Jeremiah's own insecurities and burgeoning adolescences). Eventually, though, Jeremiah is able to see why his dad loves Michael and develops his own friendship with this new person in his life.
The book is also a love song to the Twin Cities, including the cities' lakes, festivals, and community. Highly recommend for any kid!
In a book that could have easily slid into sappiness, instead Klas does a wonderful job of keeping it warm, sweet, and soulful but very real. The characters, from Jeremiah's dad to his new friend, Sage, are fully realized. Mr. Keeler, a curmudgeony man next door, adds a vital element of cynicism at times.
The book also deals deftly and smartly in its depiction of the vibrant and diverse LGBT community. Jeremiah's challenges with Michael aren't so much the fact that his dad is now dating a man, but Michael's own idiosyncrasies and personality (and, of course, Jeremiah's own insecurities and burgeoning adolescences). Eventually, though, Jeremiah is able to see why his dad loves Michael and develops his own friendship with this new person in his life.
The book is also a love song to the Twin Cities, including the cities' lakes, festivals, and community. Highly recommend for any kid!
February 11, 2020
Second Dad Summer, is a story about a 12 year old boy named Jeremiah, who just wants a normal summer with his dad. But his dad has moved in with his new boyfriend Michael who serves weird organic food and is constantly nagging him. Worst of all, Michael rides a bicycle decorated to look like a unicorn. This is not the summer Jeremiah wanted. But Jeremiah soon learns that being a family comes in many surprising forms.
This was a fun and quick read. Jeremiah and Michael where my 2 favorite characters throughout the story. Second Dad Summer, teaches you about, acceptance, friendships, pride and loss. I loved how the writer (Benjamin Klas) kept true to Jeremiah the main character, and took us on a journey of acceptance with him to the very end. The relationship that he formed with Mr. Keeler was probably my favorite, and it bummed me out that he had to die, but it was pretty obvious.
Over all this was a fun read, and will look out for more stories by the writer, You have a new follower.
Line out of the whole story that made me laugh out loud was "It's a baby, not a Pokemon card"
This was a fun and quick read. Jeremiah and Michael where my 2 favorite characters throughout the story. Second Dad Summer, teaches you about, acceptance, friendships, pride and loss. I loved how the writer (Benjamin Klas) kept true to Jeremiah the main character, and took us on a journey of acceptance with him to the very end. The relationship that he formed with Mr. Keeler was probably my favorite, and it bummed me out that he had to die, but it was pretty obvious.
Over all this was a fun read, and will look out for more stories by the writer, You have a new follower.
Line out of the whole story that made me laugh out loud was "It's a baby, not a Pokemon card"
October 2, 2022
October 2 2022
I am very fortunate to have been given the second book in this series to review. I decided to re-read the first book. It is a really lovely children’s book and still one of my favourites.
June 30 2020
When I was a child I used to sleep with my favourite books under my pillow. I loved this book and I think it would have spent a lot of time under my childhood pillow. I don't generally read children's books but this caught my eye on Netgalley. It is a really lovely story focusing on family, friends, love and acceptance.
Jeremiah's parents are divorced. He usually spends the summer with his dad but this year his dad (who is bisexual) has a new boyfriend called Michael. Jeremiah thinks Michael is irritating. He behaves like a tour guide when they are out together, he rides a ridiculous bicycle and he keeps wanting to involve Jeremiah in things. Thankfully there are other interesting people in their apartment block, like the grumpy elderly neighbour and the young girl with two mums, but Jeremiah still has to stay with Michael and his dad, although he wishes he could have his dad to himself.
Over the summer Jeremiah begins to learn how to appreciate family and friends and he gets a chance to be a friend and be part of a family and maybe Michael may not be that bad after all.
This is a lovely book with pictures as well. I enjoyed how it explored Jeremiah's feelings and his relationships with the people in his life. It was very heartwarming and I loved it so much I ordered a copy for myself. Perhaps I might keep this copy under my pillow.
A lovely book for both children and adults.
Copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
I am very fortunate to have been given the second book in this series to review. I decided to re-read the first book. It is a really lovely children’s book and still one of my favourites.
June 30 2020
When I was a child I used to sleep with my favourite books under my pillow. I loved this book and I think it would have spent a lot of time under my childhood pillow. I don't generally read children's books but this caught my eye on Netgalley. It is a really lovely story focusing on family, friends, love and acceptance.
Jeremiah's parents are divorced. He usually spends the summer with his dad but this year his dad (who is bisexual) has a new boyfriend called Michael. Jeremiah thinks Michael is irritating. He behaves like a tour guide when they are out together, he rides a ridiculous bicycle and he keeps wanting to involve Jeremiah in things. Thankfully there are other interesting people in their apartment block, like the grumpy elderly neighbour and the young girl with two mums, but Jeremiah still has to stay with Michael and his dad, although he wishes he could have his dad to himself.
Over the summer Jeremiah begins to learn how to appreciate family and friends and he gets a chance to be a friend and be part of a family and maybe Michael may not be that bad after all.
This is a lovely book with pictures as well. I enjoyed how it explored Jeremiah's feelings and his relationships with the people in his life. It was very heartwarming and I loved it so much I ordered a copy for myself. Perhaps I might keep this copy under my pillow.
A lovely book for both children and adults.
Copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
June 21, 2020
I received an advanced reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
What an absolutely adorably heart warming read this book is!
This book has so much depth to it and I loved how real the story was.
The book has great family dynamics, friendships, loss, love and even gardening within its pages and I absolutely loved it.
I was so sad the book ended as I could of continued reading it forever! I really hope there will be a second book.
What an absolutely adorably heart warming read this book is!
This book has so much depth to it and I loved how real the story was.
The book has great family dynamics, friendships, loss, love and even gardening within its pages and I absolutely loved it.
I was so sad the book ended as I could of continued reading it forever! I really hope there will be a second book.
January 6, 2021
Jeremiah is spending the summer with his dad and his dad’s boyfriend, Michael. While Jeremiah has known for a long time that his dad is bisexual, he still isn’t comfortable with Michael and struggles to form a connection with him.
I loved the storyline and Jeremiah learns to accept Michael for how he is.
I would highly recommend this book to everone and think this should be in every school's library.
#oneelmbooks #NetGalley
I loved the storyline and Jeremiah learns to accept Michael for how he is.
I would highly recommend this book to everone and think this should be in every school's library.
#oneelmbooks #NetGalley
December 5, 2020
Twelve-year old Jeremiah wants to spend a "normal" summer with his dad, but not his dad's new over-the-top boyfriend Michael. Jeremiah's parents are divorced, and Jeremiah knows Dad sometimes dates men and he sometimes dates women. Michael, though, irritates Jeremiah to no end. He's too flamboyant, too flashy, his bicycle has a sparkly unicorn on it which he refers to it as his "uni-cycle!" Not only that, he seems to know the history of every landmark, every building, every street. Jeremiah wishes he would stop being a tour guide and be quiet.
Jeremiah's summer turns out pretty okay, after all. He meets the neighbors including a new friend Sage, and he comes to terms with people being different and families looking different. And different is pretty great! This is a sweet middle grade read that so many kids will relate to. A must-have for every library. Inclusive and diverse!
Large print and shorter chapters are a plus. Illustrations appear on each page of a new chapter.
Highly recommended ages 10 and up. Alert: There is a neighbor who smokes cigarettes (if that's a problem). Read all my reviews at Young Adult Books What We're Reading Now
March 19, 2020
I absolutely loved this book. I think it's a must read for kids and teens. This story is just so heartwarming.
Jeremiah spends summer with his dad and his boyfriend. Micheal is loud and annoying, and has this awful bicycle. Jeremiah doesn't like him at all.
But it changes, slowly and surely. I was very happy to see it. Micheal was good for Jeremiah's dad and even Jeremiah could see it.
I really liked the diversity in this book.
And friendship between Jeremiah and Sage was so pure.
Also the illustrations were just amazing.
I really think there should be more books like this for kids and teens.
Jeremiah spends summer with his dad and his boyfriend. Micheal is loud and annoying, and has this awful bicycle. Jeremiah doesn't like him at all.
But it changes, slowly and surely. I was very happy to see it. Micheal was good for Jeremiah's dad and even Jeremiah could see it.
I really liked the diversity in this book.
And friendship between Jeremiah and Sage was so pure.
Also the illustrations were just amazing.
I really think there should be more books like this for kids and teens.
January 23, 2020
Jeremiah’s parents are divorced so he spends the summers with his Dad….and now his Dad’s new boyfriend, Michael. Michael rides a bicycle decorated to look like a unicorn. He is flashy, serves organic food, and most annoying of all to Jeremiah, he is constantly nagging him—or at least that’s what Jeremiah thinks when Michael is constantly asking questions and trying to help. Jeremiah would much rather it be just him and his Dad, but it appears that those times are in the past. Luckily Jeremiah makes a few friends over the summer to help him cope with the changes in his family situation. And before you know it, things begin to change…somewhat.
I really enjoyed this book. Jeremiah’s annoyance of all things Michael made me laugh, but I also had sympathy for him due to the changes in his family situation. I like the fact that this book addresses so many issues facing our youth today: divorce, two Dads, two Moms, LGBTQ, etc. I found it interesting the differences in flag representation and thought that it was timely to have someone ask about preference for pronouns. Our world has changed, and I think it is important to be as inclusive as possible. This book will go a long way toward helping children to understand that although we are all different, we are all very much the same. Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to review this book.
I really enjoyed this book. Jeremiah’s annoyance of all things Michael made me laugh, but I also had sympathy for him due to the changes in his family situation. I like the fact that this book addresses so many issues facing our youth today: divorce, two Dads, two Moms, LGBTQ, etc. I found it interesting the differences in flag representation and thought that it was timely to have someone ask about preference for pronouns. Our world has changed, and I think it is important to be as inclusive as possible. This book will go a long way toward helping children to understand that although we are all different, we are all very much the same. Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to review this book.
August 27, 2020
Review by Lisa Pineo
*I received this eARC from One Elm Books via Edelweiss+ in return for an honest review.
My ratings: * I hated it ** It was okay *** I liked it **** Really good ***** Great
TW (trigger warnings): death
A boy has a summer full of new experiences and personal growth in this new middle grade novel. 3.5 stars
Description from the publisher:
"Jeremiah just wants a normal summer with his dad. But his dad has moved in with his new boyfriend Michael who serves weird organic food and is constantly nagging him. Worst of all, Michael rides a bicycle decorated to look like a unicorn. This is not the summer Jeremiah wanted. But Jeremiah soon learns that being a family comes in many surprising forms."
I found this book kind of plodded along for me. It is the normal length for middle grade novels but I kept expecting it to end. The story was well written and I liked the characters; I guess it just didn't grab me like some others have. Recommended to all middle grade lovers but know the book deals with LGBTQ issues and a secondary character passes away.
*I received this eARC from One Elm Books via Edelweiss+ in return for an honest review.
My ratings: * I hated it ** It was okay *** I liked it **** Really good ***** Great
TW (trigger warnings): death
A boy has a summer full of new experiences and personal growth in this new middle grade novel. 3.5 stars
Description from the publisher:
"Jeremiah just wants a normal summer with his dad. But his dad has moved in with his new boyfriend Michael who serves weird organic food and is constantly nagging him. Worst of all, Michael rides a bicycle decorated to look like a unicorn. This is not the summer Jeremiah wanted. But Jeremiah soon learns that being a family comes in many surprising forms."
I found this book kind of plodded along for me. It is the normal length for middle grade novels but I kept expecting it to end. The story was well written and I liked the characters; I guess it just didn't grab me like some others have. Recommended to all middle grade lovers but know the book deals with LGBTQ issues and a secondary character passes away.
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May 20, 2020Queer content: Jeremiah's dad is bi and dating Michael, friend Sage has two moms, dad and boyfriend have other queer friends, and grumpy apartment guy is also queer. HOWEVER, there is a *lot* of stereotyping going on, and I was hate-reading it to finish it. The book seems like it wants to be a middle grade book but it's mostly feeling like a juv chapter book. And there was a part where I almost threw my digital book across the room - characters are packing up someone's belongings to donate to the Salvation Army, and I think my "no!" could be heard across town.
February 14, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a free e-arc for review.
Thirteen year old Jeremiah is spending the summer with his dad and his dad’s boyfriend, Michael. While Jeremiah has known for a long time that his dad is bisexual, he still isn’t super comfortable with Michael and struggles to form a connection with him.
I enjoyed this story, and I think the author did a great job of addressing LGTBQ+ issues from a young teenager’s perspective respectfully and honestly.
Thirteen year old Jeremiah is spending the summer with his dad and his dad’s boyfriend, Michael. While Jeremiah has known for a long time that his dad is bisexual, he still isn’t super comfortable with Michael and struggles to form a connection with him.
I enjoyed this story, and I think the author did a great job of addressing LGTBQ+ issues from a young teenager’s perspective respectfully and honestly.
February 2, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I think it will be a must-read for young readers! It was fun being situated in Minneapolis with lots of shout-outs to local spots as well as the annual Pride Parade. I enjoyed the mental transformation Jeremiah goes through trying to have a "normal" life while learning to be thankful for having a loving family. Sad parts, heartwarming parts, great writing!
May 25, 2020
There is hope for Middle Grade fiction.
It is rare that any story evokes a laugh-out-loud moment from me, a feeling of melancholy or even tears. That Benjamin Klas managed to do all three in his book is, well, astounding. Written at an uncomplicated Middle Grade level (ages 8-12), "Second Dad Summer" excels both in its simplicity and depth. Klas’ debut novel shines by highlighting incredibly detailed characters, nuanced plot points and a warm, narrative flow.
The story revolves around Jeremiah, who visits his Dad for the Summer. Dad, as it turns out, has a live-in boyfriend who is constantly trying to ingratiate himself into Jeremiah’s life. Jeremiah, as most kids who are going through new circumstances, is none-to-pleased. Add a cranky neighbor, a mom who lives miles away but calls routinely to check-in, and a new friend to the mix, for the makings of a summer with interesting and surprising plot twists. No, the biggest twist is not that Dad has a boyfriend. That’s established in the first couple of pages. More interesting things are in store. But this review, is spoiler free!
Klas’ use of language is both sophisticated and nuanced. While still keeping the reading ability of his target audience in mind, Klas manages to evoke complicated feelings and thoughts. His characters speak in plain words, but imagery still flows. For example, Jeremiah observes: “[w]e all sat down, Dad between Michael and me, connecting us and thankfully separating us too.” Yet another example: “[e]ven though I knew I needed to, it felt wrong to break apart the roots which clung so tightly to the soil they had known for so long.” The ability to write in pictures is rare. To see it in a debut story is rarer. To see it in a story for the Middle Grade level is rarer still. This is Karl’s first book; hopefully it’s the first of many.
My one quibble with the book is the illustrations. Notably, Jeremiah’s Dad does not live up to the description in the story; and, Michael is virtually always in the same stereotypical effeminate pose. Fortunately, the illustrations are brief and do not detract from an otherwise outstanding debut.
This is a definite buy and keep for the Middle Grade level. It should be a part of any well-rounded library. And that's, why it stays on my bookshelf. [End.]
My thanks to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an Advance Copy of this book. The views expressed herein are my own.
It is rare that any story evokes a laugh-out-loud moment from me, a feeling of melancholy or even tears. That Benjamin Klas managed to do all three in his book is, well, astounding. Written at an uncomplicated Middle Grade level (ages 8-12), "Second Dad Summer" excels both in its simplicity and depth. Klas’ debut novel shines by highlighting incredibly detailed characters, nuanced plot points and a warm, narrative flow.
The story revolves around Jeremiah, who visits his Dad for the Summer. Dad, as it turns out, has a live-in boyfriend who is constantly trying to ingratiate himself into Jeremiah’s life. Jeremiah, as most kids who are going through new circumstances, is none-to-pleased. Add a cranky neighbor, a mom who lives miles away but calls routinely to check-in, and a new friend to the mix, for the makings of a summer with interesting and surprising plot twists. No, the biggest twist is not that Dad has a boyfriend. That’s established in the first couple of pages. More interesting things are in store. But this review, is spoiler free!
Klas’ use of language is both sophisticated and nuanced. While still keeping the reading ability of his target audience in mind, Klas manages to evoke complicated feelings and thoughts. His characters speak in plain words, but imagery still flows. For example, Jeremiah observes: “[w]e all sat down, Dad between Michael and me, connecting us and thankfully separating us too.” Yet another example: “[e]ven though I knew I needed to, it felt wrong to break apart the roots which clung so tightly to the soil they had known for so long.” The ability to write in pictures is rare. To see it in a debut story is rarer. To see it in a story for the Middle Grade level is rarer still. This is Karl’s first book; hopefully it’s the first of many.
My one quibble with the book is the illustrations. Notably, Jeremiah’s Dad does not live up to the description in the story; and, Michael is virtually always in the same stereotypical effeminate pose. Fortunately, the illustrations are brief and do not detract from an otherwise outstanding debut.
This is a definite buy and keep for the Middle Grade level. It should be a part of any well-rounded library. And that's, why it stays on my bookshelf. [End.]
My thanks to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an Advance Copy of this book. The views expressed herein are my own.
May 21, 2020
Wow, this book was special. It tells the story of a twelve-year-old named Jeremiah, who spends his summers with his dad. This summer his Dad has a boyfriend, Michael who is trying to build a relationship with Jeremiah. Jeremiah is not quite ready for any of these changes. Along the way, he meets a girl named Sage and a curmudgeon named Mr. Keeler. They along with his father and Michael help him realize how special his family is.
A heartfelt story, that I fully enjoyed. I loved Michael so much. This had a great message for young readers that I believe stands out. It also shows the LGBTQ community in an accessible way. I loved how open Jeremiah's father Al was with his bisexuality. The way the author weaved this into his story was so well done along with the many other topics, such as death, friendships, and acceptance. Overall, this was an impactful book that I highly recommend. I cannot wait to pick up my own copy.
*I would like to thank Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for my ARC copy of the book.*
A heartfelt story, that I fully enjoyed. I loved Michael so much. This had a great message for young readers that I believe stands out. It also shows the LGBTQ community in an accessible way. I loved how open Jeremiah's father Al was with his bisexuality. The way the author weaved this into his story was so well done along with the many other topics, such as death, friendships, and acceptance. Overall, this was an impactful book that I highly recommend. I cannot wait to pick up my own copy.
*I would like to thank Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for my ARC copy of the book.*
June 8, 2020
This! Was! So! Cute!
Written by anyone else, Jeremiah wouldn’t be as well developed and would come across as annoying, but his fears are valid and he has some really funny lines, especially when he’s coming up against Michael.
The side characters are also amazingly well written. Sage has two moms, and taught me about Hmong culture, which I actually never knew about before! And Michael’s cast of friends are incredible – they actually talk about marriage equality and if it’s assimilating into gay culture, and there’s a non-binary person who has such a funny description.
I also thought Mr Keeler would be the typical grumpy homophobe who is changed through ~love and acceptance~ but no! He’s gay himself! And he talks about fighting for gay rights and the Aids Crisis! Can you imagine my delight? A children’s book about the discourse between out&proud gays and fucktheyouth gays? Outstanding.
I know this is for middle-grade readers, but I would definitely recommend it.
Written by anyone else, Jeremiah wouldn’t be as well developed and would come across as annoying, but his fears are valid and he has some really funny lines, especially when he’s coming up against Michael.
The side characters are also amazingly well written. Sage has two moms, and taught me about Hmong culture, which I actually never knew about before! And Michael’s cast of friends are incredible – they actually talk about marriage equality and if it’s assimilating into gay culture, and there’s a non-binary person who has such a funny description.
I also thought Mr Keeler would be the typical grumpy homophobe who is changed through ~love and acceptance~ but no! He’s gay himself! And he talks about fighting for gay rights and the Aids Crisis! Can you imagine my delight? A children’s book about the discourse between out&proud gays and fucktheyouth gays? Outstanding.
I know this is for middle-grade readers, but I would definitely recommend it.
October 26, 2020
This book is great not only in portraying positive queer representation, but also in tackling issues like death, grieving, and creating space for new family structures. The characterization is rich without relying on stereotypes, and I felt like each character was original and had depth. This would be a great book for a middle-grade reader who wanted to explore any of these aspects (or even someone looking for a heartwarming story).
March 12, 2021
Next month, I'll be giving a presentation on the latest children literature with LGBTQ+ themes.
Researching and reading potential books to present to fellow librarians that encourages them to turn more to LGBTQ+ literature when developing their collections.
Option 1 for middle grade readers.
Researching and reading potential books to present to fellow librarians that encourages them to turn more to LGBTQ+ literature when developing their collections.
Option 1 for middle grade readers.
April 14, 2020
Jeremiah spends his summers with his dad. This summer he will be spending it with his dad but he will also have to spend it with Michael, his dad's new boyfriend. Michael is always nagging Jeremiah as well as eating strange organic food, and riding a glittery bike with a stuffed unicorn head on the front.
This book was everything that I wanted it to be and so much more. All of the LGBTQ+ characters (which was almost everyone except Jeremiah) were unapologetically themselves without being stereotypes. The book also touched on some heavier subjects like Stonewall, death, and AIDs.
It was a brilliant book and would recommend to readers both young and old.
This book was everything that I wanted it to be and so much more. All of the LGBTQ+ characters (which was almost everyone except Jeremiah) were unapologetically themselves without being stereotypes. The book also touched on some heavier subjects like Stonewall, death, and AIDs.
It was a brilliant book and would recommend to readers both young and old.
March 31, 2020
I honestly enjoyed reading Second Dad Summer. It's fresh, well written and has good flow. It is so hard to find stories about same sex couples that are both realistic and entertaining. It was a great coming to terms with a parent in a new relationship story. Readers of all ages can appreciate this novel.
April 2, 2021
Almost every adult in this book just happens to be gay, even the guy I was expecting not to be. (He's not a grumpy guy who hates gay people. He's a grumpy guy and also gay, he just happens to be both! He was part of Stonewall and not happy about how young LGBTers are handling the movement. I thought he was the most interesting character in the book, but kids might find the goofy boyfriend to be most interesting.)
A very positive book, big print (Yay!) Friendly Happy and Illustrated.
A very positive book, big print (Yay!) Friendly Happy and Illustrated.
January 16, 2020
This is a story of what it means to make and be a friend.
What it means to make and be a family.
Make and be a community.
With people you like or don't like.
With people who like or don't like you.
This is a story of what it means to grow and change, to reroot and bloom.
I recommend it.
What it means to make and be a family.
Make and be a community.
With people you like or don't like.
With people who like or don't like you.
This is a story of what it means to grow and change, to reroot and bloom.
I recommend it.
March 16, 2020
This book is so well done... loved every minute, reading it! I think what I loved the most about it was that author Benjamin Klas allowed his character, Jeremiah, to be so believable. Klas could have easily taken a stereotypical route with the story but his beautiful telling, through Jeremiah's eyes feels so natural.
I also really appreciated the characterizations of 'Dad and Second Dad' again, believable and wise. There are very nice subplot moments that really make this complete. I definitely recommend this for young readers. Nice illustrations too.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for and honest review.
I also really appreciated the characterizations of 'Dad and Second Dad' again, believable and wise. There are very nice subplot moments that really make this complete. I definitely recommend this for young readers. Nice illustrations too.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for and honest review.
February 2, 2020
Thank you NetGalley as well as Benjamin Klas for the opportunity to read Second Dad Summer. I realized after many years that people want to be accepted for their choices. This book has a look at that. As a child, we are not asked if we want to accept everything but are put into the flow. This book looks at many areas and I am not going to really display my view on this at this time but I know this book is trying to display choices. Well read.
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