A story of three families of middle and high school youth plagued with poverty, personal loss and handicaps working together to cover life’s obstacles, both within themselves and their community. Throughout it all are the haunting myths and family tales of the old country, ancient Crete

The Myth of the Summer Moon

Steven and Aaron Reed have written a unique story concerning three families growing up poverty stricken in the mountains of Virginia in the late 1930’s - “The Myth of the Summer Moon.” The authors present their story in a thoughtful way weaving Greek legend through out the plot.  The characters are strong and easy to love. 

Jimmy is a fourteen year old struck by the pangs of love for the first time.  He is drawn to Helena, a beautiful young, Greek girl of few words.  Many consider Helena “slow” and call her names or avoid her.  Jimmy looks deep insider her and sees something others refuse to see.  Both families lost their mother at a young age.  It is easy to see the effect this has on both families.  Is Helena truly slow or does her soul run deeper than those around her?

Frankie was my favorite character.  A high school student, Jimmy’s sister, friend and caretaker, she has willingly taken on the role that few girls her age could handle.  Frankie is beautiful, spirited, courageous, mature and loving.  She is protective of her family.  Frankie is not afraid of a fight and will do whatever it takes to accomplish what needs to be done.  Frankie has a strong spirit.

Titus is a bull.  He and Frankie seem to have an understanding.  He respects her.  One can almost believe Titus is a Greek God.  He periodically challenges Frankie but knows she will always win.  He also seems to understand the undercurrents and reacts protectively.

The families obviously love each other.  When Helena asks Papikos to share a story you can feel the family bonds.  One family all living together in a way we now rarely see, grandparents, children and grandchildren cohabiting in the same house in harmony.

This is a tale of growing up in a time following a depression. This is a time when children were expected to help with chores without pay.  This is a time of strong family ties.  A time few young people now can imagine.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book.  I didn’t want it to end.  I found myself wondering if it was based on a true story.  Aaron and Steven, well done.