Sunrise Nights

Gr 9 Up–Two teens fall for each other after a chance meeting in this novel in verse. Jude spends his summers at Harbor Arts Camp (HAC), where he lets his photography calm his anxious mind. Florence is a dancer attending HAC to experience the highest level of difficulty to ensure she can reach her full potential before her nystagmus robs her of her ability to dance. At the annual farewell bonfire, Jude notices Florence sitting alone and takes her picture. Feeling uncomfortable about taking a stranger’s picture, he approaches Florence to ask for her permission. The teens decide to spend their “Sunrise Night”—when HAC campers hang out all night long in the nearby town, concluding with watching the sunrise—together, in which they learn a lot about each other and themselves. They make a pact: no contact until the next Sunrise Night at HAC, one year later. But who will they be in a year? Told over three sunrise nights, this slow-burn romance is beautifully written. Much of the story is conveyed through dialogue between Florence and Jude, and their banter is humorous and sweet. When topics turn heavier, Zentner and Cavallaro expertly create conversations that feel honest and authentic to the tough situations these characters are dealing with. Jude is struggling with his parents’ divorce and his own anxiety, while Florence is having difficulty with her eye condition and letting go of her dancing career. Heartfelt, stunning, and well-written. Race of characters is not mentioned.