Point of View

Jillian Tamaki and Mariko Tamaki tell their novel “This One Summer” from the point of view of main character, Rose, who provides minimal narration. Because the events of the summer are the firsthand experiences of Rose, it is only fitting that Rose should narrate the story. Everything comes to be seen through Rose’s perspective, from her friendship with Windy to the drama between Duncan and Jenny to Rose’s mother’s miscarriage. The reader is able to see firsthand how Rose herself comes of age, and how she changes through the various experiences she has as a result.

Language and Meaning

Jillian Tamaki and Mariko Tamaki tell their novel “This One Summer” in language that is simple and straightforward, and in illustrations printed in shades of purple. This is done for three reasons. First, the illustrations in the novel reflect the fact that the...