"The summer stretches on and on.
Pop and I are up with the birds each morning.
While Pop cooks breakfast, I photograph
the water. Sometimes it's full of windy ruffles.
Other times it's flat and still as glass."
It is evident from the onset of this family story that the child narrator is troubled by what is happening. Readers quickly learn that she is going to be staying with her grandparents for as long as it takes for her older sister to recover. As her parents leave, they hand her a box with a note inside ... and a camera. Anna hopes that Junie will find Edmund this summer and take his picture.
Junie has stayed with her grandparents before, but not on her own. As Nan and Pop work to make her comfortable, it is easy to feel the sadness she is feeling. She would rather be with her big sister. Early the first morning, she is off with her camera to find Edmund, an ancient turtle who has been the subject of their searching for 'as long as I can remember'. Nature offers many other opportunities for picture taking.
Days pass slowly with Nan and Pop, even though they keep her busy. Each night provides a chance for Junie to speak to Mom, Dad, and Anna. One night, they call to say Anna will be home tomorrow. That plan falls through, and sends Junie down to the lake with her camera and her sadness. One morning on the fishing boat, Junie finally sees Edmund. She chooses not to take his picture. That very night, Anna calls to say she is home, and they will see Junie tomorrow. An album, depicting her long summer of waiting, is a welcome gift for her big sister.
Digitally edited artwork, created in gouache, colored pencil and soft pastel, offer readers a close look a Junie's worry and sadness as the summer passes. Junie's s time with her grandparents is full of warmth and support; while her concern for her sister is unmistakeable. How happy they are to be together again.
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