The Edge of Summer

Gr 9 Up–Coriander “Cor” Cabot (white) and her best friend Ella (race not stated) have always been fascinated with whales and had planned to attend a marine biologist internship together before college. However, Ella’s tragic death in the sea the summer before has left Cor to complete their shared bucket list on her own. Cor spends her summer internship on Cape Cod with the hope of saving the humpback whales as a promise to Ella. However, her priorities are put into question when she meets handsome local lifeguard, Mannix (white), who unexpectedly sweeps her off her feet. Over the course of the summer, Cor must come to terms with her grief and regret and decide if she’s willing to embrace the opportunity for first love along with other possibilities. George’s personal passion for whales and other marine life is evident in this coming-of-age story that sheds light on how these creatures suffer at the hands of humans. The author brings awareness to a younger audience by intertwining it with the realistic transitional period between high school and college that young adults typically experience. Also, through the creation of some diverse and compassionate characters, she produces a heartfelt story that demonstrates the power kindness and acceptance can have on a person.