In the summer of 1983, a boy and his younger brother had one goal in mind – and that was imperative: to see the much-anticipated Return of the Jedi when it hits theaters. Meanwhile, life goes on. The boys go through situations that some of us may have also gone through and some we never dreamed of. Return of the Jedi Summer is a coming-of-age story that takes a nostalgic trip back to the carefree days of Pennsylvania. The book is a tug-of-war between hope and heartache, with some random moments of surrealism that are often downright unsettling, yet firmly an uplifting and inspiring look at the lives of these two brothers.
In every way, John Boden’s JEDI SUMMER is written for fans of growing up. But it’s not McCammon’s BOY’S LIFE. Not even close. It’s not Simon’s SUMMER NIGHTS, King’s IT, or Bradbury’S EVIL COMES. But it’s written for people who appreciate such stories. JEDI SUMMER is an unconventional read—a story that weaves together plots and subplots that keep you reading much longer than you expected, and you have no idea why. Before you know it, you’re completely riveted, rooting for the main character with all your might. And then it’s over. It’s just the right length.
“Summer of the Dead” is a work of methodical chaos that reads like a memoir with no real direction, but it works. Perfectly. Boden satisfies the audience’s desire for growth in the best possible way.
Rating: 5/5
Pre-order JEDI SUMMER: With the Magnetic Kid here.
