Summer's End

Belly Conklin is back at Cousins Beach, a place filled with memories of summers past. This time, however, everything feels different. Susannah, the beloved matriarch, has passed away, leaving a void in the lives of Belly and the Fisher brothers, Conrad and Jeremiah. Belly is grappling with her feelings for Conrad, who has become distant and troubled since his mother's death. As the summer unfolds, Belly finds herself caught between the past and the present, trying to hold onto the memories of what once was.

Grief and Change

The death of Susannah has left a profound impact on everyone. Belly is haunted by memories of her, and the summer house feels empty without her presence. Conrad is struggling with his grief, pushing everyone away, including Belly. Meanwhile, Jeremiah tries to keep things light, but even he can't escape the sadness that lingers. Belly's relationship with Conrad is strained, and she finds herself questioning if they were ever truly meant to be. The summer is a time of change, and Belly must navigate her feelings and the shifting dynamics between her and the Fisher brothers.

Searching for Conrad

When Conrad goes missing from summer school, Jeremiah enlists Belly's help to find him. They embark on a road trip, hoping to bring Conrad back before he jeopardizes his future. The journey is filled with tension and unresolved feelings, as Belly and Jeremiah confront their past and present emotions. Along the way, Belly realizes that her feelings for Jeremiah are more complicated than she thought. The search for Conrad becomes a journey of self-discovery for Belly, as she grapples with her love for both brothers.

Secrets and Revelations

As they search for Conrad, Belly and Jeremiah uncover secrets that have been kept hidden. They learn that Mr. Fisher plans to sell the summer house, a decision that devastates them. Conrad's disappearance is not just about escaping his grief; it's also about trying to save the house that holds so many memories. Belly is torn between her loyalty to Conrad and her growing feelings for Jeremiah. The revelations force Belly to confront her own desires and the reality of her relationships with the Fisher brothers.

The Last Night

With the future of the summer house uncertain, Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah decide to have one last night together. They throw a party, trying to recapture the carefree days of their youth. But the night is filled with tension and unspoken words. Belly finds herself caught between the two brothers, each representing a different path for her future. As the night unfolds, Belly must decide what she truly wants and who she wants to be with. The last night at the summer house becomes a turning point for all three of them.

Confrontations and Confessions

The morning after the party, emotions run high as Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah confront their feelings. Belly realizes that she can't keep holding onto the past and must make a choice about her future. Conrad confesses that he never meant to hurt Belly, but his actions have consequences. Jeremiah, who has always been there for Belly, reveals his true feelings for her. The three of them must face the truth about their relationships and what they mean to each other. It's a moment of clarity and honesty that will shape their futures.

Moving Forward

With the summer coming to an end, Belly must decide what she wants for herself. She realizes that she can't keep living in the past and must move forward. Belly chooses to be with Jeremiah, recognizing that he has always been there for her. Conrad, understanding that he needs to let Belly go, decides to focus on his own future. The summer house, once a symbol of their childhood, becomes a place of new beginnings. Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah leave Cousins Beach with a sense of closure and hope for what lies ahead.

Characters

Belly Conklin

Belly is the heart of the story, navigating her complex emotions for the Fisher brothers. She is deeply affected by Susannah's death and struggles to find her place in a world without her. Belly's journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to let go of the past and embrace the future. Her relationships with Conrad and Jeremiah are central to her growth, as she learns to understand her own desires and make choices that reflect her true self.

Conrad Fisher

Conrad is the brooding, troubled older brother who is deeply affected by his mother's death. He struggles to cope with his emotions, pushing away those who care about him. Conrad's relationship with Belly is complicated, filled with unspoken words and unresolved feelings. He is torn between his love for Belly and his need to protect himself from further pain. Conrad's journey is one of healing, as he learns to confront his grief and open himself up to the possibility of love.

Jeremiah Fisher

Jeremiah is the opposite of Conrad, open and easygoing, but he too is affected by Susannah's death. He has always been there for Belly, and his feelings for her deepen as the summer progresses. Jeremiah represents a new path for Belly, one that is filled with love and support. His journey is about stepping out of Conrad's shadow and finding his own place in the world. Jeremiah's love for Belly is unwavering, and he is willing to fight for her happiness.

Susannah Fisher

Susannah's presence is felt throughout the story, even after her death. She is the glue that held the summer house together, and her loss is deeply felt by all. Susannah's love for her sons and Belly is unconditional, and her memory serves as a guiding force for them. Her death forces the characters to confront their own emotions and relationships, and her legacy is one of love and acceptance.

Laurel Conklin

Laurel is Belly's mother, a strong and practical woman who struggles with her own grief. She is determined to protect her daughter and help the Fisher boys in any way she can. Laurel's relationship with Susannah was one of deep friendship, and her loss is a heavy burden. Laurel's journey is about finding balance and being there for her daughter while dealing with her own emotions.

Mr. Fisher

Mr. Fisher is a complex character, dealing with his own grief and guilt over Susannah's death. He is determined to sell the summer house, a decision that causes tension with his sons. Mr. Fisher's relationship with Conrad and Jeremiah is strained, and he struggles to connect with them. His journey is about finding redemption and doing right by his family.

Plot Devices

Dual Narratives

The story is told through the perspectives of Belly and Jeremiah, allowing readers to see the events from different angles. This dual narrative structure provides insight into the characters' thoughts and emotions, deepening the reader's understanding of their relationships. It also highlights the contrast between Belly's introspective nature and Jeremiah's open-hearted approach to life.

Flashbacks

Flashbacks are used throughout the story to provide context and background for the characters' relationships. These glimpses into the past reveal the depth of Belly's feelings for Conrad and the history she shares with the Fisher brothers. The flashbacks also serve to highlight the changes that have occurred over the years, emphasizing the theme of growing up and moving on.

Symbolism of the Summer House

The summer house is a central symbol in the story, representing the characters' shared past and the changes they must face. It is a place of comfort and nostalgia, but also a reminder of what has been lost. The potential sale of the house forces the characters to confront their emotions and make decisions about their futures. The house symbolizes the end of childhood and the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.

Analysis

"It's Not Summer Without You" is a poignant exploration of grief, love, and the complexities of growing up. The story delves into the impact of loss on relationships and the struggle to hold onto the past while embracing the future. Through Belly's journey, readers are reminded of the importance of self-discovery and the courage it takes to make difficult choices. The novel highlights the power of love and friendship in overcoming adversity and finding hope in the face of uncertainty. Jenny Han's writing captures the bittersweet nature of summer and the transformative power of change, leaving readers with a sense of closure and the promise of new beginnings.

Last updated: February 1, 2025