Amy Hest’s The Summer We Found the Baby is a beautifully poignant story about childhood, discovery, and the power of compassion. Set in the summer of 1948, the novel follows two young sisters, Annie and her older sister, Clara, who find a baby abandoned in a box near the beach. As the girls decide what to do with the baby, they navigate their own personal challenges and their evolving understanding of the world around them.
Hest’s writing is simple yet deeply moving, capturing the innocence and complexity of childhood with authenticity. The bond between the sisters is central to the story, showing how family, love, and responsibility shape the way we grow. The baby symbolizes not only a mystery that must be solved, but also a deeper emotional journey for Annie and Clara as they grapple with their own fears, hopes, and dreams.
The novel touches on themes of empathy, responsibility, and the way unexpected events can change the course of our lives. While the story is quiet and reflective, it is also filled with moments of tension, warmth, and growth. The Summer We Found the Baby is a tender and heartwarming read that beautifully captures the innocence of youth and the power of small, significant moments.
By Teen Reviewer Gabe