At its heart this is a coming of age story with a new twist or two. Four young friends had the summer of their lives 25 years ago, when they turned 14. The wildest friend senses that one of the group is too sensitive and artistic to ever survive in this rough fishing town, so he orders the friend to enter a painting contest. The boy paints a scene of their beach hangout, and goes on to become wildly successful. Now in the present, as his life comes to a close he meets a teenage girl street urchin, and recognizes her as a late entry to their group. As we learn more about the families of the four, you will deal with sadness, followed by unbelievable pathos, mixed with flashes of humor. I found it slower going to care about these people, but by the end, Backman had me. Much here to think about covering the meaning of friendship, art, and life in general.
Reviewed by Terry Ballard
May 6, 2025
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