Description
Book SynopsisAn award-winning novel about family old and new, friendship growing into romance, the beauty of the sea and a hot summer on a Swedish island
Vinga dreams of the sea. She's going to be a sailor when she grows up, sailing to distant lands. At home, back in the city, Mum is sad and Dad has left for good. But here with Granddad on the island, all her problems feel far away. Summer goes on as usual, with porridge for breakfast, drinking rhubarb lemonade under the lilac tree and watching the sunset from 'her' cliff.
But things are different now too. The heat vibrates during the day, and a girl with a black hat has started appearing. Her name is Ruth. The only thing they seem to have in common is their age and that they are both on the island for the summer. But spending time together, their friendship soon turns out to be something much more.
Rhubarb Lemonade is story filled with empathy and heart about an unusual summer when childhood comes
Trade Review
"Enchanting novel [...] Kroon writes with brilliant psychological acuity, slowly spinning out the gentle, absorbing suspense of their [Vinga and Ruth's] intensifying friendship, as Vinga slowly lets down her guard". -- Emily Bearn * The Telegraph *
This coming-of age story is beautifully observed. * Daily Express *
I loved this book! It perfectly captures that delicate departure from childhood and entry into adulthood. * Jion Sheibani, author of THE SILVER CHAIN *
There is much to love [...] the ease of language, poetic intensity, precision in tone. * August Prize jury *
This is beautiful children's literature that stimulates not just the senses but also the imagination. * Vlag en Wimpel jury *
This is a gentle and lyrical work set on a hot Swedish island which explores navigating the end of childhood against themes of first love, loss, family breakup, new blended families, mental health, and trauma. * The School Librarian *
Its tale of love and friendship is sure to resonate with you. -- Aoibhe Toft * Paper Lanterns *
