Summer of L.U.C.K. by Laura Segal Stegman is about three kids finding their way to self-acceptance with the help of a ghost who haunts a magical carnival. Laura’s debut novel for middle grade readers (ages 8 to 12), which will be published by INtense Publications on September 15, is available wherever books are sold.
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More about Summer of L.U.C.K.
Stuttering Darby is never perfect enough for her mother. Justin’s been silent since his dad died. Naz is struggling to learn English. But after they meet at summer camp, mysterious calliope music from an abandoned warehouse grants them power to communicate without words. When they sneak inside, the dark, empty space bursts into a magical carnival. They’re greeted by the ghost of Leroy Usher, who asks for their help convincing his family to restore the carnival to its former glory. In return, he promises to teach the kids how to find their voices.
As Darby, Justin, and Naz are swept off on a series of midnight adventures via Mr. Usher’s carnival rides, they discover they’re capable of more than they ever imagined. With each challenge, their confidence in communicating – and in themselves – grows. Meanwhile, they scheme to persuade the Usher family to revive the carnival. But when Darby’s bunkmates trick her into starring in the camp talent show, her budding confidence falters. Can she risk being less than perfect by performing in the show and speaking up to Mr. Usher’s resistant son? If not, she’ll put the carnival in danger and sabotage her most important quest: to believe in herself, stutter and all.
“Laura Stegman conjures up a tale of friendship, set in the perfect summer camp (with a nod to the original Parent Trap film) that just happens to have a magical carnival next door. It’s a story about coming to terms with loss, change, and finding the confidence to face the difficult challenges of life. Stegman’s debut novel feels like an instant classic.”
Kitty Felde, author of Welcome to Washington, Fina Mendoza and Book Club for Kids podcast
Middle grade readers… will relish this… compelling read. Highly recommended reading that stands out from the crowd.
D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
“Imaginative and emotionally true.”
Lynne Heffley, children’s media critic, writer, editor
“A charming story about family, friendships, and heartwarming reconciliations.”
Colette Sewall, author of Kiki MacAdoo and the Graveyard Ballerinas
