This is a middle grade novel told through the eyes of 11 year old Delphine as she and her sisters visit their estranged mother in Oakland. Their visit takes place in the height of the Black Panther movement in the late 1960’s. The story explores not only the Black Panthers and their history, but also coming of age, sisterhood/family, and identity.

One Crazy Summer was a quick read! I liked the short chapters which only made me say “just one more chapter” late into the night. The characters are well written and developed throughout the book. I wanted to hug Delphine for being forced to act like an adult/parent instead of getting to be a kid though!

Overall an interesting, hopeful story that taught me a bit more about the Black Panthers!