The Summer Invitation

A summer of adventure awaits 14-year-old Franny and her older sister, Valentine, when their mother’s mysterious friend Aunt Theo invites them to visit New York City under care of a chaperone. An aura of old-fashioned mystique pervades the story, as the girls follow dated rules (“Theo doesn’t like trousers”), meet Theo’s old suitors at renowned hotels like the Carlyle, and visit places that have “been around for, like, ever and ever,” in the words of Valentine, who chafes under the restrictions. Following Theo’s admonition to “take notes,” introspective Franny keeps a journal, while longing to meet the mysterious benefactor whose influence has touched so many. Franny’s fresh, empathic voice conveys both eagerness for adventure and anticipation of loss, as she sees Valentine preparing to launch into a new stage in life, recognizes their different natures, and understands herself as a “true Romantic [who] knows that the inner life is... the only thing that really matters.” Silver (Charlotte au Chocolat) excels at creating atmospheric nostalgia in her stylish first book for teens, capturing a transformative moment in time. Ages 12–up. Agent: Emily Forland, Brandt & Hochman. (May)