A very introspective story that explores the different manifestations of grief after losing a loved one, and how one can find solace and hope where it is least expected. Summer is an orphan who has been blessed with a very special aunt and uncle, May and Ob, who have loved and cared for her since she was six years old. Their home in the mountains of West Virginia is just what Summer needed after being passed from relative to relative, basic needs cared for, but basically ignored and unloved. With May and Ob, Summer received all of the love she'd been missing and plenty more. But since May's sudden death, Summer and Ob have been finding it extremely difficult to figure out life without her. Ob, especially, is experiencing major depression at the thought of continuing life without his beloved May, which leaves Summer to deal with her pain, grief and fear for the future, all alone. Family was something Summer never could take for granted, until May and Ob took her into their hearts. And now it looks like, after only six short years, she might lose the only real family she’s ever known.
I'd recommend this to middle and high school readers who appreciate a quiet, contemplative type of book that allows one to ponder life's events and what they mean for each of us. We all have fears, and experience loss, at some time or another, and this book gives us a glimpse into the mind of a young girl trying to work through those feelings and hold together what little family she has left. It's not action-packed by any means, but slow and steady, allowing us to really connect with Summer, and see how she handles some of life's biggest issues. Other similar books I'd suggest to those who enjoy Missing May are A Fine White Dust, by the same author, and Up a Road Slowly by Irene Hunt.
Reviewed by Megan M on Aug 10, 2020
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