One Golden Summer
Book • 2025
by Carley Fortune
As featured in The New York Times ∙ People ∙ Good Morning America ∙ The Washington Post ∙ Cosmopolitan ∙ TODAY ∙ USA Today ∙ Harper's Bazaar ∙ Glamour ∙ E! News ∙ Buzzfeed ∙ ELLE ∙ Us Weekly ∙ The New York Post ∙ FIRST for Women ∙ Woman's World ∙ Katie Couric Media ∙ SheReads ∙ and more!
I never anticipated Charlie Florek.
Good things happen at the lake. That’s what Alice’s grandmother says, and it’s true. Alice spent just one summer there at a cottage with Nan when she was seventeen—it’s where she took that photo, the one of three grinning teenagers in a yellow speedboat, the image that changed her life.
Now Alice lives behind a lens. As a photographer, she’s most comfortable on the sidelines, letting other people shine. Lately though, she’s been itching for something more, and when Nan falls and breaks her hip, Alice comes up with a plan for them both: another summer in that magical place, Barry’s Bay. But as soon as they settle in, their peace is disrupted by the roar of a familiar yellow boat, and the man driving it.
Charlie Florek was nineteen when Alice took his photo from afar. Now he’s all grown up—a shameless flirt, who manages to make Nan laugh and Alice long to be seventeen again, when life was simpler, when taking pictures was just for fun. Sun-slanted days and warm nights out on the lake with Charlie are a balm for Alice’s soul, but when she looks up and sees his piercing green gaze directly on her, she begins to worry for her heart.
Because Alice sees people—that’s why she is so good at what she does—but she’s never met someone who looks and sees her right back.
One Golden Summer
Book • 2025
by Carley Fortune
As featured in The New York Times ∙ People ∙ Good Morning America ∙ The Washington Post ∙ Cosmopolitan ∙ TODAY ∙ USA Today ∙ Harper's Bazaar ∙ Glamour ∙ E! News ∙ Buzzfeed ∙ ELLE ∙ Us Weekly ∙ The New York Post ∙ FIRST for Women ∙ Woman's World ∙ Katie Couric Media ∙ SheReads ∙ and more!
I never anticipated Charlie Florek.
Good things happen at the lake. That’s what Alice’s grandmother says, and it’s true. Alice spent just one summer there at a cottage with Nan when she was seventeen—it’s where she took that photo, the one of three grinning teenagers in a yellow speedboat, the image that changed her life.
Now Alice lives behind a lens. As a photographer, she’s most comfortable on the sidelines, letting other people shine. Lately though, she’s been itching for something more, and when Nan falls and breaks her hip, Alice comes up with a plan for them both: another summer in that magical place, Barry’s Bay. But as soon as they settle in, their peace is disrupted by the roar of a familiar yellow boat, and the man driving it.
Charlie Florek was nineteen when Alice took his photo from afar. Now he’s all grown up—a shameless flirt, who manages to make Nan laugh and Alice long to be seventeen again, when life was simpler, when taking pictures was just for fun. Sun-slanted days and warm nights out on the lake with Charlie are a balm for Alice’s soul, but when she looks up and sees his piercing green gaze directly on her, she begins to worry for her heart.
Because Alice sees people—that’s why she is so good at what she does—but she’s never met someone who looks and sees her right back.
Suggested Age
Every child is different — this is guidance, not a rule.
This story explores themes of past relationships, regret, and romantic longing, which are better suited for a teen audience. The emotional complexity and focus on adult romantic dynamics necessitate a higher age recommendation.
Content Safety Breakdown
Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content
Sex & Nudity
The story focuses on romantic tension and developing feelings between the main characters. There may be some kissing and mild romantic dialogue, but no explicit content is suggested.
Violence & Gore
the available information does not mention any violence, conflict, or physical harm. The focus is on personal relationships and life events.
Profanity
Based on the available information, there is no indication of any profanity being used in the film.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking
the available information does not mention any use of alcohol, drugs, or smoking. The focus is on summer activities at a lake.
Frightening Scenes
The only potentially intense scene mentioned is a character falling and breaking a hip, which is a realistic but not typically frightening event. The rest of the story focuses on romantic and personal growth.
Key Insights
Quick summary and important considerations
This is a story about a photographer named Alice who revisits a special lake from her past. There, she unexpectedly reconnects with someone from her teenage years, leading her to explore old feelings and discover new possibilities for her future.
Detailed Analysis
In-depth insights for parents and educators
What Parents Need to Know
The content centers on adult romance and emotional introspection, with a focus on second-chance love. Themes of longing and past regrets are prominent.
What Kids Can Learn
Older teens can learn about the enduring impact of past relationships and the courage required to revisit and understand them. It prompts thought on how life paths can change.
Key Topics Discussed
Why Parents Might Like It
Adults may appreciate the exploration of themes like rekindled romance, life reflection, and the bittersweet nature of revisiting cherished memories.
Positives & Learning
What makes this content valuable for children
Positive Messages
Characters learn the value of self-discovery and embracing new experiences. The narrative highlights the importance of confronting the past to move forward.
Positive Role Models
Alice demonstrates resilience in pursuing personal growth and confronting emotional challenges. Her journey encourages viewers to reflect on their own life paths.
Diverse Representations
No diverse representations indicated in available information.
Educational Value
The story offers insights into the complexities of adult relationships and personal reflection. It touches on themes of how past experiences shape present decisions.
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