Float by Kate Marchant is a heartwarming multi-layered story about family, friendship, and new beginnings. This is the summer that changed Waverly’s life.
Available on Audible Plus catalog.
My Overview
Waverly Lyons has always felt like a burden on her parents; always second to their careers. Rather than join them on yet another summer research trip, she chooses to spend the summer with her Aunt Rachel. So, at the end of her junior year in high school, she leaves her home in Fairbanks, Alaska and heads off to Holden, Florida where her aunt lives. Having grown-up with distant parents and lacking friendship ties throughout her school years, she doesn’t even bother bringing her phone with her. At 17 years old, she feels no ties to home.
Immediately upon her arrival, she realizes how ill-prepared she is for life in Florida. From her clothing to her inability to swim, she’s ill-prepared for it all. Fortunately, Rachel’s positive and encourages Waverly to go outside of her comfort zone. Soon enough, Waverly starts working at a bookstore, meets a group of local teens, and even the handsome (yet grouchy) guy next door takes an interest in her. Waverly’s finally learned to float in Florida … but what will she do at the end of summer when it’s time to return to Alaska?
This is a light and heartwarming multi-layered story with a mix of romance, friendship, and family. It’s a Young Adult story, so the main focus is on the teenagers’ relationships and experiences. The adults’ roles as parents, though, was my favorite aspect of the storyline. I liked the various facets of parenting that were shown within the storyline. Raising and guiding teens is a difficult job, especially if the adults are struggling with their roles. In this case, I think the star was Rachel, who doesn’t have any children of her own, but stepped in as a parent when Waverly needed her. Overall, I enjoyed the storyline and the growth the characters experienced.
My Recommendation
I enjoyed this story and recommend it (especially the audiobook). It’s perfect for a quick and light summer read, but would be great any time of the year. If you’re looking for a sweet story about teenage love, family, and friendship … give this one a try. If you enjoyed Love & Gelato, I think you’ll enjoy this one.
This book is soon to be a movie.
Have you read this or any other book by this author?
