Jemma Hartman, Camper Extraordinair

JEMMA HARTMAN, camper extraordiane by Brenda Ferber is a wonderful example of how a book can help initiate discussion about fears a camper may have in anticipation of going away for the first time. It is a fabulous find for both mothers and daughters to share and many of my clients have read it for their mother-daughter book groups. Jemma is going to Camp Star Lake with Tammy, her former best friend who has moved away. She looks forward to having a perfect summer with her, sharing activities and fun like it used to be. She doesn't anticipate that her once solid friendship has changed. Nor does foresee Tammy's cousin, Brooke, also attending, creating a threesome and lots of anxiety. Although Jemma may know what the camp will look like and what the schedule is like, she can't predict the actions of other campers. She feels excluded by Tammy, in competition with Brooke, and plagued by Delaney, the camp oddball. In this touching story Jemma learns through experience how to manage relationships and build friendships. An anonymous quote prefacing the book says it all: "You can't control the wind, but you can adjust your sail."

I loved this book! I am 38 years old with a 16 month year old son. But I could totally relate to this book. It is a great book for any girl at any age. Brenda's detail and emotions are captured in a friendship web between 4 girls at camp. What girl hasn't gone through this? This book is a good read to help girls get through friendship issues that Tween and Teenage girls go through alot. I wish I had a book growing up to deal with this. Your girls will love it!!!!! So will U