Phillips, Gin: The Hidden Summer

After a falling out between their mothers, 13-year-old best friends Nell and Lydia are forbidden from seeing each other for the whole summer. Nell struggles with the thought of not only losing her best friend, but also losing the only person in whom Nell finds refuge from the difficulties she faces at home. Determined to find a place of their own, Nell and Lydia spend the summer hiding out in an abandoned golf course where Nell and Lydia find mysterious symbols scattered throughout the grounds. As they reveal the secret of the symbols, Nell discovers she isn't the only one seeking haven and begins to uncover what’s really been hidden all along, finally allowing herself to be truly seen.

Hidden Summer is a quietly beautiful coming of age story about self-discovery, family, and friendship. An elegantly written children’s book debut from an award-winning author in the vein of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn and for fans of Moon Over Manifest.Praise for The Hidden Summer:

“[Gin Phillips’] Alabama golf course is a blend of secret garden and Crusoe-esque island, simultaneously giving her protagonists both peace and adventure.” —BCCB

"The girls are sympathetic, credible characters, and readers will enjoy their successful execution of a common childhood fantasy." —Publishers Weekly
 
“A satisfying psychological journey.” —Kirkus Reviews
 
“Just about every kid wants a special place all his or her own, so readers will easily warm to Nell’s story and look hopefully around their own neighborhoods for an equivalent local paradise.” —BCCB
 
“Readers will be gratified that Nell’s resolve and courage in ultimately standing up for herself result in a hopeful conclusion.” —School Library Journal