The Summer of Bitter and Sweet

A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is grappling with the weight of family secrets, the complexities of setting personal boundaries, or the search for pride in their indigenous heritage. This story follows Lou, a Michif girl working at her family's ice cream shack, as she navigates a summer of unexpected changes, including the return of an ex-boyfriend and the arrival of a biological father she never knew. It is a deeply resonant exploration of identity, consent, and the resilience required to face past traumas. While the book touches on heavy themes such as sexual assault and generational trauma, it is written with profound empathy and a focus on healing. For older teens (14 and up), it provides a mirror for those who feel 'in-between' and a window for those seeking to understand the intersectional experiences of Indigenous and LGBTQ+ youth. Parents will appreciate the way it models the importance of supportive community and the courage it takes to speak one's truth.