It was snowing outside as I was reading SURVIVING SUMMER CAMP. I soon forgot about the cold as this heartwarming story took hold.

Eddy is the main character pictured on the cover. He’s a kid who just likes to stay home, read, and play video games. Eddy also likes to eat, especially junk food.

The upcoming summer is going to be perfect as Adam and Callum, his older and younger brother, are going to summer camp. Not so fast. Turns out Eddy is forced to join them thanks to the sudden decision his parents have made. Things couldn’t be worse attending a camp that doesn’t allow electronics.

Well, it does get worse. The counselor in his cabin is mean both to him and Adam.
Then an overnight hike ends up in near disaster as Eddy and his brothers get lost and separated from the main group. A cougar, bear, and an old man in a cabin make things very scary. Eddy has never been a hero but now it’s up to him to become one and save his brothers.

The 30 chapters zip by with the engaging narration by young Eddy. His thoughts and actions are exactly what you might expect from a pre-teen. His character arc is one of my favorite journeys this year with either a boy or girl character. He’s a kid you will remember.

Lots of boy humor here with a few scenes of stinky air if you know what I mean. Yes, I was giggling too. But the real highlight for readers will be the bravery it takes to believe in yourself and finding the strength to reach new goals. Fast paced with plenty of laughs that will appeal to the reluctant reader. SURVIVING SUMMER CAMP is a great read any time of the year.

PAGE COUNT: 220 BOOK BIRTHDAY: July 5, 2025

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Paul Breau is a middle grade chapter book author from Vancouver, British Columbia. He writes coming of age stories that feature smart, funny, and authentic characters dealing with challenging situations.

Paul’s books include Surviving Summer Camp, Friendship or Foul Play, Friendship or Fame, Jake Murphy: The Karate Choke, and Siarra Jones: Skating Into Trouble.

Paul lives with his wife, daughter, and a Chihuahua dog named Poppy.  He loves skating, karate, and lots of other sports. He is an avid reader and loves to draw. Paul completed a BA in English Literature from the University of British Columbia.

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It’s almost time for another Marvelous Middle Grade Monday. Won’t you join us? It’s here I share highlights and links from other bloggers about middle grade books. Many of the posts will have reviews, interviews, and tips on writing. Take a look at PAST MMGM POSTS.

It’s easy to get a spot in the lineup. Email me the title of the book or feature and a link to your blog at gpcolo[at]gmail[dot]com

Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so it gets sorted accurately–and don’t forget to say what you’re featuring) You MUST email me your link by Sunday evening (11 PM Eastern Time) in order to be included in the list of links for that week’s MMGM.

*Please note: these posts are not a reflection of my own opinions on the books featured. Each blogger is responsible for their own MMGM content and I do not pre-screen reviews ahead of time, nor do I control what books they choose. I simply assemble the list based on the links that are emailed to me.