A Cozy Camp Read: Review of I Love You S’more by Anna Desombre
When I stumbled upon Anna Desombre’s I Love You S’more, its sun-soaked summer camp vibes and promises of friendship and first love drew me in like a campfire’s warm glow. As someone who cherished the nostalgic simplicity of summer adventures, I couldn’t resist the intrigue of rekindled friendships against the backdrop of teenage heartbreak. Desombre has previously charmed me with I Think I Love You, so my expectations were set high—and although I Love You S’more is undeniably cute, I found myself navigating a few obstacles along the way.
At its heart, I Love You S’more centers on 15-year-old Ivy as she grapples with the aftermath of her breakup with Ally, her first girlfriend of four years. This setup piqued my interest, showcasing the intensity of young love. However, the context of their relationship felt incomplete, as the narrative thrusts us into Ivy’s world post-breakup, leaving Ally nearly an outline of a character rather than a full presence. As a reader, I craved more substance to understand why this first love mattered, especially since Ivy herself acknowledges that their relationship might not be taken seriously due to their ages. The stakes felt lower, which left me yearning for a deeper exploration of the bond they once shared.
Ivy’s complexity shines through her struggles and her relationship with her family, particularly her sister, which added depth to her character. I appreciated how Desombre portrayed the real challenges of adolescence—those messy, tumultuous feelings that still resonate with me at 20. Ivy’s interactions with her campers brought a delightful layer to the story, albeit the middle school drama felt a tad tedious at times, diverging from the main plot.
While the story skillfully touches on themes of friendship and self-discovery, I found the romance between Ivy and Rynn—another key character—visibly strained. Their relationship emerged from rekindled friendship but was overshadowed by Ivy’s lingering feelings for Ally. It was hard to root for them when Ivy’s thoughts seemed perpetually tethered to her ex. The climax felt a bit rushed, especially the wrap-up between Ivy and Rynn—only a few pages to explore their budding romance felt like a missed opportunity for deeper emotional connection.
However, the side characters, like the hilarious Fitz and dedicated Mrs. P, brought welcome humor and warmth to the narrative. Their unique dynamics with Ivy enriched the story, even if I wished Rynn had been given more depth.
One of the standout moments for me was a poignant quote toward the end that beautifully encapsulated the importance of discussing romance and its impacts on younger generations. It served as a gentle reminder of the nuances of young love, which resonates through the storyline of Ivy’s campers. Still, I anticipated a more satisfying resolution for Ivy’s role in the musical production, feeling slightly let down by the absence of closure despite the narrative’s overall happiness.
In conclusion, I Love You S’more is a delightful, easy read that captures the bittersweetness of young love and friendships. While it didn’t fully resonate with my adult self, I believe it will find a loving audience among younger teens who are exploring their own identities and relationships. Desombre’s talent shines through in her writing, and despite my critiques, I see the potential for this book to connect with many readers. It’s a warm reminder of the simple joys of campfires, s’mores, and the friendships that shape our coming-of-age journeys.
If you’re looking for a summer read that navigates the complexities of teenage relationships, I Love You S’more might just be the book you need—full of warmth and youthful spirit, perfect for those lazy, sun-drenched afternoons.