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book cover for Loon Cove Summer

Loon Cove Summer

with Jaclyn Uttley (Narrator)

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Pub Date Jan 5 2027 | Archive Date Dec 17 2026


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Description

This summer, 13-year-old Sarah Richardson is determined to get her life unstuck. Her goals? Swim in the lake again. Protect the loons. Stop aching for her mom. Volunteering at a wild bird rescue center is a bright spot—especially when she meets Theo, a boy who shares her passion for nature and conservation.

However, life at her family’s Maine campground is shifting. A potential move threatens her home. Her dad might be dating Theo’s aunt, a wildlife researcher. Grief over her mother’s death resurfaces in painful new ways. To reclaim her voice, Sarah finds bold inspiration in her late mom’s Appalachian Trail journal—and sets out on a solo wilderness trek.

As Sarah’s world unravels, her daring journey becomes more than just an adventure—it’s a test of courage, heart, and what it really means to find your place in the wild and in the world.

Snapshot of Loon Cove Summer:

• A poignant story steeped in friendship and family alongside hilarity and grief. 

• For readers searching for meaning and adventure in their own world of firsts.

• Has a multi-generational cast of witty, quirky characters full of sweet encounters.

• Offers a richly drawn lakeside, camp setting with a wildlife conservation theme.


This summer, 13-year-old Sarah Richardson is determined to get her life unstuck. Her goals? Swim in the lake again. Protect the loons. Stop aching for her mom. Volunteering at a wild bird rescue...


A Note From the Publisher

2025 Page Turner Award Best Children’s Books Middle Grade Winner

2025 Gertrude Warner Book Awards First Place by Chanticleer International Book Awards

2025 The Wishing Shelf Book Awards Finalist

2025 Lupine Award Nominee & Short List by the State of Maine Librarians

2025 Page Turner Award Best Children’s Books Middle Grade Winner

2025 Gertrude Warner Book Awards First Place by Chanticleer International Book Awards

2025 The Wishing Shelf Book Awards Finalist

...


Advance Praise

“A warm-hearted novel, Loon Cove Summer shows how being open to new possibilities and connections can be a powerful remedy for grief. Readers will love the multi-generational cast of characters, all residents of the lakeside campground that 13-year-old Sarah's family struggles to keep afloat. Maine provides a rich setting for this charming novel that balances profound loss with humor and hope.”
—  Kate Allen, national bestselling author of The Line Tender

“This funny and heartfelt novel with a cast of witty eccentrics reminded me that sadness and hilarity can walk hand-in-hand. As sparkling, refreshing, and mysterious as a Maine lake in summertime.”
—  Cathy Carr, author of 365 Days to Alaska

“Loon Cove Summer is a page-turning read set in the wilds of Maine offering an intimate look into a thirteen-year-old girl as she navigates the loss of her mother and her father’s subsequent depression.”
—  Paul Greci, author of Surviving Bear Island

“In this unique and memorable setting, Galanti’s lyrical prose and skillful balancing of humor and grief, will make you feel like you’ve just spent a summer at sleepaway camp with close friends. The cast of unforgettable characters and tender relationships stays with you, making Loon Cove Summer the perfect beach—or campground—read for any young person searching for meaning and adventure in their own world of firsts.”
—  Jessica Rinker, author of The Dare Sisters  

“This book. This book. This beautiful, heartbreaking book. It's not just a story about summertime ... although it is that as well. It's not just a story about conservation and saving the beloved loons ... although a big part of it is. We see how one voice CAN make a difference, and inaction is the only true enemy of positive change ... but again, not the whole story. It's not just a story about growing up, experiencing all the firsts, and changes that life can bring...although it is this as well. It's about going about your day and carrying on, even when you have a broken heart.  The author does a wonderful job of getting the emotions into the story, while taking us on a summer trip we won't soon forget.” — Gina, Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers blog

“Loon Cove Summer was a heartfelt story full of bold loveable characters. I would recommend Loon Cove Summer to anyone who wants a story about perseverance and birds! As an avid loon lover, I enjoyed all of the fun facts about the species and how they survive even the hardest times. The balance that Galanti provided between scientific facts and heartfelt story was a beautiful and enjoyable blend. I can't wait for this one to be published!”
—  Katelyn W., Educator

“Following a summer of triumphs and tribulations Sarah navigates love, loss, change and first crushes with an array of loveable characters. This book was a breath of fresh air with a focus on nature loving teens in a world that is so heavily focused on technology. With personal nostalgic feelings of camping as a child and listening to the call of the loons, this was a perfect summer middle grade read!”
— Jen R, Librarian

“This is a really sweet book with a strong protagonist that I think younger readers will really connect with. The themes of perseverance, trusting your gut, and taking care of each other will speak to so many kids who are going through challenging things. The characters are very sweet together and the sense of found family brings comfort to a family that has experienced a tremendous and difficult loss. I love the way this book touches on these difficult life experiences without overly dwelling on them.”
— E R, Book Trade Professional


“A warm-hearted novel, Loon Cove Summer shows how being open to new possibilities and connections can be a powerful remedy for grief. Readers will love the multi-generational cast of characters, all...


Available Editions

EDITION Audiobook
ISBN 9081736316283
PRICE $20.00 (USD)

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BISAC Codes

JUV039000 JUVENILE FICTION / Social Themes / General (see also headings under Family)
JUV039030 JUVENILE FICTION / Social Themes / Death, Grief, Bereavement
JUV029010 JUVENILE FICTION / Science & Nature / Environment
JUV029050 JUVENILE FICTION / Science & Nature / Trees & Forests
JUV039020 JUVENILE FICTION / Social Themes / Adolescence & Coming of Age
JUV002040 JUVENILE FICTION / Animals / Birds