
A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is facing a sudden, jarring shift in their identity or social standing, such as a fallout from a parent's career scandal or a failed internship. It is an ideal pick for the child who is a perfectionist and feels lost when their carefully curated plans fall apart. The story follows Andie, whose summer plans vanish after a political scandal involving her father, forcing her to find joy in a series of unplanned events, dog walking, and a blossoming summer romance. This novel beautifully navigates the complexities of repairing a distant father daughter relationship while emphasizing the importance of a core group of friends. While there is a sweet and realistic romance, the emotional weight lies in Andie's growth as she learns to live without a script. It is appropriate for mature pre teens and teens, offering a hopeful perspective on how some of the best life experiences are the ones we never saw coming.
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Sign in to write a reviewOccasional use of mild profanity common in teen fiction.
Mentions of parties where alcohol is present.
Themes of grief regarding a deceased mother and family estrangement.
The book deals with political scandal and public shaming in a secular, realistic way. The loss of a mother is a background element that informs the distant relationship between Andie and her father. The resolution is hopeful and grounded in realistic character growth.
A 14 to 16 year old girl who feels immense pressure to succeed and has a difficult time being vulnerable with her parents or peers.
Parents should be aware of some mild underage drinking and typical teen social dynamics. No specific scenes require heavy briefing, but it's a great catalyst for talking about the 'masks' we wear for the public. A parent might see their child withdrawing after a failure or feeling like they must 'perform' to be loved. The trigger is seeing a child who is too afraid to make a mistake.
Younger teens will focus on the romance and the fun of the dog-walking business. Older teens will resonate more deeply with the themes of academic pressure and the anxiety of future planning.
Unlike many romances, this book prioritizes female friendship and father-daughter healing as much as the love story. The 'unexpected' element is truly lived out through the messy, unpolished nature of the protagonist's growth.
Andie Rose is the daughter of a Congressman. She has her summer perfectly planned out: a prestigious medical internship and a clear path to success. When a scandal hits her father's career, her internship is revoked, and she is stuck at home with the father she barely knows. To fill the time, she starts a dog-walking business and navigates a summer of firsts with her three best friends and a new, unexpected love interest named Clark.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.