Summary: Shouting at the Rain
In Shouting at the Rain, young Delsie is an “orphan” living with her grandmother in Cape Cod. She’s never known either of her parents and has lived with her grandparents her whole life. Her grammy cleans homes for vacationers and Delsie helps her often. When Delsie’s friend Brandy starts hanging out with a new girl, Tressa, Delsie is worried about losing her friend. Things get even worse as Tressa is repeatedly mean to her while Brandy says nothing or even joins in.
Then Delsie meets Ronan, who’s moved to the Cape to live with his father. Delsie and Ronan become friends, united in their shared interest in the weather, sea life, and having adventures. Delsie still struggles to handle being semi-abandoned by Brandy while uncovering the truth about her mother and understanding the meaning of family.
The Good
Delsie is a unique character. She enjoys tracking the weather, rarely wears shoes, and is so observant, sweet, and sensitive. I also loved Ronan’s development as a character and enjoyed seeing him and Delsie nurture their friendship. It’s nice that they both are just friends — so kind to each other — without any hint of romantic interest. Sometimes, you just need that in a story. I listened to this on audio and would recommend!
I liked the way the author handles Brandy and Tressa’s characters; they’re not cardboard cut-out “mean girls,” but instead we also see other sides of them. It’s refreshing to read about places like Cape Cod from the perspective of residents, and not just vacationers. Characters like Henry, Olive, Esme, and the rest add an extra layer to the story. The Annie play that Delsie’s two other friends are a part of is woven in nicely and overall, it’s just great that she’s not totally friendless.
The Bad
I did feel a little lost (for a few chapters) in the middle of this one. It seemed to me that the main issues were resolved, but the book wouldn’t end. The eventual end is good, but this one could’ve been a bit shorter.
Overall: Shouting at the Rain
Shouting at the Rain is an endearing story about finding your place in the world and finding your people too. Full of vivid Cape Cod descriptions and rich, multi-layered characters, this middle-grade novel is a perfect summer read. If you enjoy books with unique female protagonists, interesting family dynamics, and a side of drama, you’ll enjoy Shouting at the Rain.
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More “Summery” Middle-Grade Reviews
- Wonderland by Barbara O’Connor
- Rules of the Ruff by Heidi Lang
- Up for Air by Laurie Morrison
Have you read this book or anything by Lynda Mullaly Hunt? I loved Fish in a Tree. What did you think of Shouting in the Rain? What are your favorite summery books? I’d love to know!
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