Podcast Summary: The Book Lisp with Jon Ryan & Sarah Colonna – Episode 28: Summers Book Review

Release Date: November 25, 2024

In Episode 28 of The Book Lisp, hosts Jon Ryan and Sarah Colonna delve deep into their review of the novel "28 Summers". This episode marks a significant shift as Jon and Sarah transition from spoiler-free discussions to an in-depth analysis of the book, catering to listeners who have either completed the novel or are prepared for a comprehensive review.

1. Overview of "28 Summers"

Jon Ryan and Sarah Colonna begin by setting the stage for "28 Summers," a narrative that intriguingly starts at the end of its timeline before unraveling the protagonist's journey backward.

• Starting Point: The story opens in Summer 28 (2020) with Mallory on her deathbed, urging her son Link to contact Jake, who is notably the President of the United States and her long-term love interest.

  Sarah (00:19): "You have either completely finished the book and you're ready for the review, or you're going to get all the spoilers, which I would not be opposed to if it was me listening to a book podcast, because we know I like spoilers."

• Return to Beginnings: The narrative then travels back to Year 1 (1993), introducing Mallory's life, her relationships, and significant events that shape her over the ensuing summers.

2. Character Dynamics and Development

Mallory stands at the heart of the story, embodying independence and resilience. Her relationships with characters like Leland, Frey, and Jake are meticulously explored, showcasing the complexities of love, friendship, and personal growth over decades.

• Leland: Described as Mallory’s best friend, Leland's character introduces early tensions and dynamics, especially concerning Mallory's inheritance and her move to Nantucket.

  Jon (02:11): "Mallory Finds out in this first chapter that her aunt Greta has passed away... So Mallory moves to Nantucket, has this great cottage and $100,000 inheritance."

• Frey and Jake: The trio's interactions during bachelor parties and subsequent summers reveal underlying tensions, secrets, and evolving relationships. The introduction of Ursula, Jake's wife, adds layers of political intrigue and personal conflict.

  Sarah (07:04): "She’s a little bit of a pushover because she didn't even get mad enough about that... You can't do that."

• Ursula: As a politician, Ursula embodies the antagonistic force in the story. Her strategic maneuvers to control Jake's relationships and her political ascent provide a counterbalance to Mallory's quest for personal freedom.

  Jon (12:02): "She talks at one of Cooper's many weddings... he covers and then he starts to put it together that Jake's been going to see his sister all these years."

3. Themes and Insights

Independence and Female Empowerment: A recurring theme is Mallory's unwavering independence. Her ability to navigate love and loss while maintaining her autonomy is a testament to the novel's focus on female empowerment.

Sarah (33:29): "I thought it was sweet to seem like to make it seem like, oh, these two might either meet and carry it on, and then you get to see the love blossom in their two children that aren't, you know, related because they never got married."

Political Intrigue: Ursula's role as a politician introduces real-world parallels, reflecting societal issues and the personal impact of public decisions.

Jon (17:22): "It's just reflecting all the divisiveness... because this woman’s a politician."

Relationships Across Time: The book masterfully portrays relationships that withstand the test of time, emphasizing commitments made "no matter what."

Sarah (06:20): "Next year comes on the TV and they watch it. They're like, 'let's. No matter what, we're gonna meet here once a year on Labor Day. Forever, no matter what.'"

4. Critiques and Highlights

While Jon and Sarah express appreciation for the novel's depth and emotional resonance, they also voice certain critiques:

• Political Elements: Both hosts felt that the political subplot involving Ursula sometimes felt disconnected from the main narrative, detracting from the personal aspects of Mallory's story.

  Sarah (20:11): "She tried to... she tried to make the book current... but I think I'll just. Sometimes I'm just like, I just don't even want to think about politics."

• Character Decisions: Certain plot points, such as Mallory's decision to become a teacher and her handling of personal relationships, were viewed as unrealistic or poorly developed.

  Jon (07:20): "Where she took Jeremiah was kind of... Isn't that kind of weird?"

• Missing Chapters: The hosts lamented the absence of significant events, like the aftermath of a wedding, which left gaps in character development and plot continuity.

  Sarah (25:02): "I wanted to hear that chapter... but we’re just supposed to assume they just don't talk about it."

Favorite Moments: Despite critiques, they highlight poignant moments that resonate emotionally, such as Ursula’s confrontation with Mallory and the novel’s bittersweet ending.

Sarah (48:04): "The confrontation that wasn't really one where Ursula goes to see Mallory was oddly satisfying."

5. Emotional Reactions and Final Thoughts

The episode closes with Jon and Sarah reflecting on their emotional journey through the book. Sarah admits to shedding a few tears, while Jon appreciates the complex interplay of relationships and character growth.

Sarah (49:54): "I did cry a little bit at the end."

Jon (48:05): "I really like this book a lot. I thought it was a nice story."

They conclude by hinting at their next read, "On a Quiet Street" by Seraphina Nova Glass, promising to continue their tradition of exploring diverse genres and narratives.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Sarah (00:19): "You have either completely finished the book and you're ready for the review, or you're going to get all the spoilers..."

• Jon (02:11): "Mallory Finds out in this first chapter that her aunt Greta has passed away..."

• Sarah (06:20): "Next year comes on the TV and they watch it. They're like, 'let's... meet here once a year on Labor Day. Forever, no matter what.'"

• Sarah (20:11): "She tried to... she tried to make the book current... but I think I'll just... sometimes I'm just like, I just don't even want to think about politics."

• Sarah (49:54): "I did cry a little bit at the end."

Conclusion

Jon Ryan and Sarah Colonna deliver a comprehensive and heartfelt review of "28 Summers," balancing their admiration for the novel with constructive criticisms. Their dynamic discussion offers listeners a nuanced perspective, making this episode a valuable resource for those contemplating reading the book or seeking deeper insights post-reading.

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