Carousel Summer

Gr 5-8–Twelve-year-old Lucy faces a long, uneventful summer in her small town. Her best and only friend is away at camp, and tensions simmer between her dad and brother over a new development threatening her dad’s store unless he agrees to sell. Lucy’s dull routine shifts when artist Ray, who is openly gay, and her effortlessly cool daughter Anaïs, arrive to restore an old carousel for the town’s 150th anniversary. Lucy and Anaïs form an instant bond. Anaïs helps Lucy break out of her shell, while Lucy shows Anaïs the beauty of rural life. As their friendship deepens, the girls explore whether their connection is more than platonic. This heartwarming graphic novel delves into themes of identity, belonging, and courage. Lucy’s transformation from a shy, aimless girl to a determined, self-assured advocate will inspire readers. Her relationship with her single father, Richard, is particularly well-developed, balancing love, misunderstanding, and eventual growth. Richard remains a sympathetic figure as he grapples with Lucy’s budding identity, making his redemption feel genuine. Gros’s illustrations capture the story’s timeless charm, with characters, who are primarily white, depicted in realistic body shapes.