Description
Book SynopsisCat is the glue holding her family together. When her little brother Chicken has a meltdown, she knows just how to calm him, whether it’s scratching his back or reading his favourite book. They've always had a special bond. But with their mum working extra hard after their dad's death, Cat is struggling to keep everything afloat. When Cat and Chicken unexpectedly end up spending the summer with the grandparents they’ve never met, Cat suddenly has the space to be a kid again. Gradually, she discovers that days on Gingerbread Island are full of fishing, fireflies and new friendships – as well as a lifetime of family secrets. Could this summer be Cat's chance to bring her fractured family together again?
Trade ReviewThis absorbing, heartfelt novel seamlessly blends the challenges of life with a neurodivergent child into a story of one tween’s burgeoning self-awareness as she figures out how to reclaim her childhood * New York Times *
An engaging, honest book - I love Cat, and you will, too! -- Kimberly Brubaker Bradley, Newbery Honor-winning author of THE WAR THAT SAVED MY LIFE
I could almost smell the ocean air as I read Gillian McDunn's
Caterpillar Summer. What a beautiful story of family, forgiveness, life on an island, and growing up -- Kate Messner, acclaimed author of THE SEVENTH WISH and BREAKOUT
[A] well-written book about the struggles of a fractured family -- School Library Connection
This absorbing, unsentimental account of recognition and reconciliation looks at family, friendship and independence from a whole series of angles, an engaging lightness of touch belying its deep themes and thoughtfulness. * CBI Reading Guide 2019-20 *
