Description
“Seven Summers” is a memoir by Canadian author and journalist Julia Zarankin. Published in 2021, the book explores themes of identity, belonging, and the immigrant experience through Zarankin’s life. The title refers to the seven summers she spent at a language camp in the Soviet Union during her childhood, where she was immersed in Russian language and culture.
Throughout the memoir, Zarankin reflects on her upbringing as a Russian Jew in Toronto, her complex relationship with her homeland of Russia, and her journey to reclaim her heritage and language as an adult. She intertwines personal anecdotes with historical and cultural insights, offering a poignant and often humorous exploration of the immigrant experience and the search for belonging.
“Seven Summers” has been praised for its lyrical prose, emotional depth, and thought-provoking reflections on identity and cultural heritage. It offers readers a captivating journey through memory, language, and the complexities of the immigrant experience.
Chinedu –
“Seven Summers is a captivating and emotionally resonant novel that will stay with you long after you finish it. Evans’ writing is both lyrical and evocative, and she expertly weaves together the stories of seven summers that transform a group of friends’ lives forever. The characters are deeply flawed and relatable, and their struggles and triumphs will resonate with readers of all ages. I highly recommend this immersive and thought-provoking read.”
Gideon –
“Seven Summers is an enthralling novel that kept me captivated from beginning to end. The characters were so well-developed that I felt like I knew them personally. The story was both heartwarming and heartbreaking, and I found myself rooting for the characters every step of the way. The author’s vivid descriptions and engaging writing style transported me to the beautiful summer setting. I highly recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys a compelling and emotionally resonant read.”
Mai –
“Seven Summers is a captivating and heartwarming novel that transports readers to the idyllic shores of Nantucket. With its evocative descriptions of the sun-drenched beaches and the close-knit island community, the story unfolds as a poignant tale of friendship, love, and the enduring bonds of family. The characters are relatable and well-developed, their struggles and triumphs resonating with readers of all ages. Highly recommend this charming and unforgettable literary journey.”
Tawa –
“Seven Summers is an unforgettable novel that will stay with me long after I finish its pages. Megha Majumdar weaves a tapestry of love, loss, and the power of forgiveness. The characters are so well-developed and relatable that I felt like I was transported into their world. The story is both heartbreaking and uplifting, and it left me with a renewed sense of hope. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant read.”