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Sunrise Nights
Two young artists have a chance meeting on the last night of summer arts camp in this YA novel in verse and dialogue cowritten by acclaimed authors Jeff Zentner and Brittany Cavallaro.
Jude loves photography, and he’s good at it, too. Between his parents’ divorce and his anxiety, being behind a camera is the only time his mind is quiet.
Florence is confronting the premature end of her dance career as a degenerative eye disease begins to steal her balance. She’s having a hard time letting go.
The two meet at Sunrise Night, their sleepaway art camp’s dusk-to-dawn closing celebration, and decide to take a chance on each other. Their one rule: No contact for a year after the sun has risen. Over the course of three Sunrise Nights, will Florence and Jude find a deeper connection and learn who they are—and who they could be together?
Jude loves photography, and he’s good at it, too. Between his parents’ divorce and his anxiety, being behind a camera is the only time his mind is quiet.
Florence is confronting the premature end of her dance career as a degenerative eye disease begins to steal her balance. She’s having a hard time letting go.
The two meet at Sunrise Night, their sleepaway art camp’s dusk-to-dawn closing celebration, and decide to take a chance on each other. Their one rule: No contact for a year after the sun has risen. Over the course of three Sunrise Nights, will Florence and Jude find a deeper connection and learn who they are—and who they could be together?
400 pages, Hardcover
First published July 9, 2024
About the author
Jeff Zentner
11 books2,477 followersJeff Zentner is the author of two New York Times Notable Books: The Serpent King and In the Wild Light, as well as Goodbye Days and Rayne & Delilah’s Midnite Matinee. His next book, forthcoming from Grand Central in 2024, is entitled Colton Gentry's Third Act.
Among other honors, he has won the ALA’s William C. Morris Award, the Amelia Elizabeth Walden Award twice, the International Literacy Association Award, the Whippoorwill Award, the Muriel Becker Award, and been longlisted twice for the Carnegie Medal. He’s a two-time Southern Book Prize finalist; and was a finalist for the Indies Choice Award. He was selected as a Publishers Weekly Flying Start and an Indies Introduce pick. His books have been translated into fifteen languages.
Before becoming a writer, he was a musician who recorded with Iggy Pop, Nick Cave, and Debbie Harry. He lives in Nashville.
Among other honors, he has won the ALA’s William C. Morris Award, the Amelia Elizabeth Walden Award twice, the International Literacy Association Award, the Whippoorwill Award, the Muriel Becker Award, and been longlisted twice for the Carnegie Medal. He’s a two-time Southern Book Prize finalist; and was a finalist for the Indies Choice Award. He was selected as a Publishers Weekly Flying Start and an Indies Introduce pick. His books have been translated into fifteen languages.
Before becoming a writer, he was a musician who recorded with Iggy Pop, Nick Cave, and Debbie Harry. He lives in Nashville.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
August 22, 2024
REVIEW TO COME!!!!!!!!!
July 9, 2024
SUNRISE NIGHTS is a book written in verse and dialogue about heady summer nights when you’re young and filled with love and wonder and yearning and art that you need to create or you feel like your heart will burst. And on one of those seemingly infinite firefly-lit summer nights you walk up to a bonfire that mirrors the burning inside you and you meet a kindred spirit. Someone you can’t be without. And the only thing left to do is walk around all night and talk about it.
We hope you’ll read it and fall in love.
We hope you’ll read it and fall in love.
July 14, 2024
*Sunrise Nights* is like capturing the magic of those unforgettable summer nights where the air is filled with possibilities! 🌌 Jude, a super talented photographer, and Florence, a passionate dancer facing a life-altering condition, cross paths at the final bonfire of their summer arts camp. Their connection? Instant and profound! But, plot twist: Jude has a girlfriend. So, they come up with this wild plan—no contact for a whole year until the next Sunrise Night. Over three years, they meet only at this special camp tradition, watching the sunrise together and uncovering pieces of themselves and each other. 🌅
**Tropes:**
- Summer camp romance 🌄
- First love 💖
- Coming of age 🌱
- Artistic souls 🎨
- Emotional growth 💫
- No contact rule for a year 🕒
- Strangers to lovers 💑
**Sunrise Nights** by Jeff Zentner and Brittany Cavallaro is an enchanting read that captures the magic and intensity of summer nights. With its beautiful verse and dialogue, this novel is perfect for fans of YA who love stories about art, self-discovery, and young love.
Jude’s dealing with his parents’ messy divorce and his anxiety, while Florence is bravely facing her degenerative eye disease. 📸🩰 The way they open up to each other, showing their most vulnerable sides, is simply heart-wrenching and beautiful. Jude's journey with his photography and Florence's struggle with her condition are deeply moving. Their growth, both individually and together, is portrayed with such raw honesty.
The novel’s mix of verse and dialogue is just *chef’s kiss*—it creates this vivid, emotional world that pulls you right in. Zentner and Cavallaro's lyrical prose and heartfelt storytelling make every moment feel alive. The alternating perspectives provide a rich, layered narrative that deepens our connection to Jude and Florence.
But wait, there’s more! It’s not all sunshine and roses. There are misunderstandings, hilarious moments, epic banter, and those heart-wrenching decisions that make you want to scream into your pillow. Their journey is full of ups and downs, capturing the true essence of growing up and finding yourself. It’s maddening when they make mistakes, but isn’t that the beauty of youth—learning and growing from every misstep?
**Content Warnings:**
- Discussions of degenerative illness
- Parental divorce
- Anxiety and mental health struggles
Overall, *Sunrise Nights* is a stunning, emotional rollercoaster that beautifully captures the fleeting, poignant moments of youth and art. It’s perfect for those who crave a blend of heartfelt storytelling and poetic prose. 🌠 If you’re ready for a novel that will make you laugh, cry, and fall in love all over again, this is the one!
**Tropes:**
- Summer camp romance 🌄
- First love 💖
- Coming of age 🌱
- Artistic souls 🎨
- Emotional growth 💫
- No contact rule for a year 🕒
- Strangers to lovers 💑
**Sunrise Nights** by Jeff Zentner and Brittany Cavallaro is an enchanting read that captures the magic and intensity of summer nights. With its beautiful verse and dialogue, this novel is perfect for fans of YA who love stories about art, self-discovery, and young love.
Jude’s dealing with his parents’ messy divorce and his anxiety, while Florence is bravely facing her degenerative eye disease. 📸🩰 The way they open up to each other, showing their most vulnerable sides, is simply heart-wrenching and beautiful. Jude's journey with his photography and Florence's struggle with her condition are deeply moving. Their growth, both individually and together, is portrayed with such raw honesty.
The novel’s mix of verse and dialogue is just *chef’s kiss*—it creates this vivid, emotional world that pulls you right in. Zentner and Cavallaro's lyrical prose and heartfelt storytelling make every moment feel alive. The alternating perspectives provide a rich, layered narrative that deepens our connection to Jude and Florence.
But wait, there’s more! It’s not all sunshine and roses. There are misunderstandings, hilarious moments, epic banter, and those heart-wrenching decisions that make you want to scream into your pillow. Their journey is full of ups and downs, capturing the true essence of growing up and finding yourself. It’s maddening when they make mistakes, but isn’t that the beauty of youth—learning and growing from every misstep?
**Content Warnings:**
- Discussions of degenerative illness
- Parental divorce
- Anxiety and mental health struggles
Overall, *Sunrise Nights* is a stunning, emotional rollercoaster that beautifully captures the fleeting, poignant moments of youth and art. It’s perfect for those who crave a blend of heartfelt storytelling and poetic prose. 🌠 If you’re ready for a novel that will make you laugh, cry, and fall in love all over again, this is the one!
August 25, 2024
✨🌅Sunrise Nights ~ 2.5 stars🌅✨
✨🌅buddy read with cara bear🌅✨
”Love seems to die around me.”
I have mixed thoughts about this one👀 while I loved the banter and I am all for second chance books this one kinda feel flat for me. I failed to the their chemistry even though the banter was very well there (and hilarious!) I honestly didn’t image them as a couple until something was mentioned again. I also feel like Jude’s feeling for *forgets the female characters name* were much stronger for her than her’s ever were to him. Other than that this book is beautifully formatted. At first I was confused🤣 it’s verses and dialogue. So basically you have like poems some “chapters” and just full dialogue the next. It was kinda difficult for me to read at first bc I am so used to regular formats. It is switched back and forth kinda choppy at some parts too:( my main issue is a bit of a spoiler but I can tell you I felt like the female character was rlly selfish.
”Sometimes I think the only things we're put on this earth for are to create art and make connections with the people we're supposed to connect with."
Tropes & stuff🌅
—>second chance
—>summer camp
—>high schoolers
—>coming of age
—>slow burn
—>art/artist’s
—>strangers to friends to lovers
”We find who we can’t be without.”
Jude is a talented photographer while Florence is a skilled dancer, but she is facing a life changing eye condition. On the final day of their art summer camp they meet around a campfire. While (over)cooking marshmallows (and for the record Jude i actually prefer my marshmallows brunt🤣 I know how to make them “correctly” I just chose not too😌🤣) They have an I stand connection (that I didn’t find romantic necessary—yes I said it)
Florence comes up with the plan that they should not contact for another year until the next sunrise night. They have three chances to get it right, to be what they have wanted since the first day. Can they manage to pull it off??
”I get the sense of how good it will feel to one day write a poem about right now."
✨🌅buddy read with cara bear🌅✨
”Love seems to die around me.”
I have mixed thoughts about this one👀 while I loved the banter and I am all for second chance books this one kinda feel flat for me. I failed to the their chemistry even though the banter was very well there (and hilarious!) I honestly didn’t image them as a couple until something was mentioned again. I also feel like Jude’s feeling for *forgets the female characters name* were much stronger for her than her’s ever were to him. Other than that this book is beautifully formatted. At first I was confused🤣 it’s verses and dialogue. So basically you have like poems some “chapters” and just full dialogue the next. It was kinda difficult for me to read at first bc I am so used to regular formats. It is switched back and forth kinda choppy at some parts too:( my main issue is a bit of a spoiler but I can tell you I felt like the female character was rlly selfish.
”Sometimes I think the only things we're put on this earth for are to create art and make connections with the people we're supposed to connect with."
Tropes & stuff🌅
—>second chance
—>summer camp
—>high schoolers
—>coming of age
—>slow burn
—>art/artist’s
—>strangers to friends to lovers
”We find who we can’t be without.”
Jude is a talented photographer while Florence is a skilled dancer, but she is facing a life changing eye condition. On the final day of their art summer camp they meet around a campfire. While (over)cooking marshmallows (and for the record Jude i actually prefer my marshmallows brunt🤣 I know how to make them “correctly” I just chose not too😌🤣) They have an I stand connection (that I didn’t find romantic necessary—yes I said it)
Florence comes up with the plan that they should not contact for another year until the next sunrise night. They have three chances to get it right, to be what they have wanted since the first day. Can they manage to pull it off??
”I get the sense of how good it will feel to one day write a poem about right now."
Read
May 31, 2024I’m not going to rate this one because I simply have no clue how to rate it.
I love books written in verse, and I fell in love with every book Jeff Zentner has written so far. There’s something about his writing that is mesmerizing. It’s lyrical and poetic and full of feelings. I hadn’t read anything by Brittany Cavallaro before, but I found out I really like her writing, too. Despite the issues Florence is dealing with, Brittany’s writing is humoristic and accessible, and I laughed out loud when I read her disclaimer about Timothy Chalamet. And still …
This book is written in verse AND dialogue, which means chapters written in verse alternate with chapters almost entirely written in dialogue. And somehow, that structure doesn’t seem to fit me. I loved the chapters in verse, the rythm and cadence, and I kind of liked the chapters in dialogue. But the transitions between the different structures took me out of the story way too much. Somehow, I felt like I would have fallen head over heels with this story if it had been fully written in verse or written as a normal novel. Sadly, with this structure, I didn’t, even though I fell in love with Jude and Florence.
Thank you, Harper360YA, for this ARC.
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I love books written in verse, and I fell in love with every book Jeff Zentner has written so far. There’s something about his writing that is mesmerizing. It’s lyrical and poetic and full of feelings. I hadn’t read anything by Brittany Cavallaro before, but I found out I really like her writing, too. Despite the issues Florence is dealing with, Brittany’s writing is humoristic and accessible, and I laughed out loud when I read her disclaimer about Timothy Chalamet. And still …
This book is written in verse AND dialogue, which means chapters written in verse alternate with chapters almost entirely written in dialogue. And somehow, that structure doesn’t seem to fit me. I loved the chapters in verse, the rythm and cadence, and I kind of liked the chapters in dialogue. But the transitions between the different structures took me out of the story way too much. Somehow, I felt like I would have fallen head over heels with this story if it had been fully written in verse or written as a normal novel. Sadly, with this structure, I didn’t, even though I fell in love with Jude and Florence.
Thank you, Harper360YA, for this ARC.
Follow me on Instagram
July 19, 2024
✰ 2.5 stars ✰
“These summer days,
these Sunrise Nights, they hold
a richness: maybe we were born
to this inheritance of chance love. We find
who we can’t be without.”
I always wondered why I never was drawn to watch the Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy Before Sunrise film trilogy.
Now, I have my answer. 😐
'Captures the intoxicating rush of falling in love' --- in a night or three nights - give or take. Isn't that the same as the mad rush of insta love too - love at first sight-kinda feeling? I mean, the idea is good - two aspiring artists - Jude, the one unlovable photographer and Florence, a dancer with a crippling eye defect - who meet only once on the final day of camp and confess their heart-to-hearts, which is enough for them to change the direction of their lives. ❤️🩹❤️🩹 Devoting the entirety of their time before each other, where they exchange truths and thoughts and jokes and honesty that will undoubtedly bring them closer together, especially when (We only have 'til dawn) one night only.
Yes, I could not help but have Dreamgirls' song echoing in my head.
But, even in the span of one night, okay, well, three Sunrise Nights that brings Jude and Florence together - it really comes down to the wire of having each second - minute - documented in order for the readers to believe that a relationship was being built, only agreeing to return to the same night again once a year, devoid of any social contact - 'meet up again with someone who could become my favorite person. 🥺
As much as I know instant attraction and love at first sight exists, I don't think a span of less than twenty-four hours, over the course of three years apart from each other is enough to start a healthy relationship, let alone firmly believe that they are the love of their lives. I know they have the rest of their lives to make up for the years missed - I've read it happen before and I didn't mind it there, so I don't quite know why it's bothering me now. 😕 But, it is very insta love for high school, that also makes it rather unrealistic and unbelievable.
“I was thinking that this is what you hope
love is: you enter a house
full of monsters with someone
and then you fight for each other
until you can’t fight anymore.”
And yes, I could have forgiven the romance. Jude and Florence had some cute interactions and tender heartfelt confessions that bolstered my belief that there were some lingering desires in them both that were sincere during 'this small little collection of hours up here in the northern end of nowhere.' But, then I would need the other part of the book to have enough strength to tip the balance in its favor. And that would have to be the writing.
I did not have a strong connection with the writing, due to the way it played out. 😮💨
I always respect when authors attempt free verse to convey a story. It has to be very engaging and interactive and compelling to make you feel the reason why one narrates the plot in that format. But, with uneven shifts in perspective between the two, that did not only alternate unevenly with the characters, but the transition from free verse to snippets of dialogue, which was more than just script, was not at all smooth or easily balanced. 😒
“Because what’s holier
than to feel deeply?
To feel deeply is to be alive
and what’s holier than to live
and feel.”
To me, the poetry snippets were just a substitution for having both characters echo their inner thoughts and sentiments - broken drown at intervals for each of them to otherwise reflect on their actions and events of the sunrise nights. It made then the change BACK to long drawn out scenarios hard to stay invested in. 😥 And I love poetry! Look how many highlights were of their poetic thoughts, as well! I liked getting inside their heads; both of them were experiencing emotions and fears that were relatable and rational. I'm not saying that YA books should follow a certain pattern as to how to share their stories, but to keep the readers interested - there has to be some engaging interaction that would make me feel like I should care about their chemistry or their relationship. 😢
The characters did not have enough weight or personality to them - because of how limited the time frame we got to spend with them. I felt like in the actual written parts - there was more freedom to it, and if the authors had simply chosen to tell the story in that format - I think it could have been a much better well-executed story. I mean, we get TOLD of their many talents and skills in just a few words or sparse glimpses; I guess, then, the emphasis of this story really was just to focus on how romance can exist within these few meetings.
There were some worthwhile moments. Ones that shined with youthful exuberance of the exhilarating rush of standing on the precipice of falling for the unattainable. Of knowing that life and your emotions are at war with each other, when all one wants to do is give into temptation and desire. 🥺 The happiness of finding a kindred spirit in the sanctity of the quiet darkness that exists for only a number of hours that is devoid of any interruption or daunting fear, but the chance to speak one's own fears into the void and have someone return in kindness - a word of comfort - a word of understanding. 🫂
“Sometimes I think the only things we’re put on this earth for are to create art and make connections with the people we’re supposed to connect with.”
I was glad when Florence exhibited some form of reasoning that it is impossible to believe they could be in love for how brief their meetings were - 'these three nights that, like, flooded me.'. 💘 It was hard to see how she struggled with the loss of a passion she loved severely and her attempt to find something more to hold her interest. I felt for Jude's doubts and insecurities over himself and his own capabilities. I liked seeing him find ways to cope and help himself. I appreciated that the authors did not allow their lives to be entirely stagnant in the time they were apart. That as much as they held onto the promise of reuniting and returning with the same feelings, it was not without consideration. That it did not permit them to not experience life in the ways they could have. 👍🏻
I did not like, though, that one of the reasons for their fallouts was miscommunication, nor for the fact that deception was such a point being pushed upon. 😕 Some of the dialogue exchanges also felt a bit too perfect and pretty to feel natural or sincere, to me. I don't know - it's been awhile since I was sixteen, but they were just so wholesome with each other from the start, that as much as it did not bother me that the two of them were together, it also still did not feel like a relationship that was a real one.
Does that make sense? 🤔
In any event, I don't deny that the overlying message was made, it just did not click with me. It was difficult for me to stay truly interested in it - I think, it took me three nights to complete - not kidding! 😩 It just felt unnecessarily long, and I think if it had chosen to tell the story in one singular format - I would have enjoyed it much more and felt a deeper connection and affinity to the characters' relationship. But, with the original base of their premise being one that I don't find entirely favorable either - then it is safe to say that even before I read it, it had already set itself up for a possible troubled read. I only wish it could have proven me wrong. 😞
“These summer days,
these Sunrise Nights, they hold
a richness: maybe we were born
to this inheritance of chance love. We find
who we can’t be without.”
I always wondered why I never was drawn to watch the Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy Before Sunrise film trilogy.
Now, I have my answer. 😐
'Captures the intoxicating rush of falling in love' --- in a night or three nights - give or take. Isn't that the same as the mad rush of insta love too - love at first sight-kinda feeling? I mean, the idea is good - two aspiring artists - Jude, the one unlovable photographer and Florence, a dancer with a crippling eye defect - who meet only once on the final day of camp and confess their heart-to-hearts, which is enough for them to change the direction of their lives. ❤️🩹❤️🩹 Devoting the entirety of their time before each other, where they exchange truths and thoughts and jokes and honesty that will undoubtedly bring them closer together, especially when (We only have 'til dawn) one night only.
Yes, I could not help but have Dreamgirls' song echoing in my head.
But, even in the span of one night, okay, well, three Sunrise Nights that brings Jude and Florence together - it really comes down to the wire of having each second - minute - documented in order for the readers to believe that a relationship was being built, only agreeing to return to the same night again once a year, devoid of any social contact - 'meet up again with someone who could become my favorite person. 🥺
As much as I know instant attraction and love at first sight exists, I don't think a span of less than twenty-four hours, over the course of three years apart from each other is enough to start a healthy relationship, let alone firmly believe that they are the love of their lives. I know they have the rest of their lives to make up for the years missed - I've read it happen before and I didn't mind it there, so I don't quite know why it's bothering me now. 😕 But, it is very insta love for high school, that also makes it rather unrealistic and unbelievable.
“I was thinking that this is what you hope
love is: you enter a house
full of monsters with someone
and then you fight for each other
until you can’t fight anymore.”
And yes, I could have forgiven the romance. Jude and Florence had some cute interactions and tender heartfelt confessions that bolstered my belief that there were some lingering desires in them both that were sincere during 'this small little collection of hours up here in the northern end of nowhere.' But, then I would need the other part of the book to have enough strength to tip the balance in its favor. And that would have to be the writing.
I did not have a strong connection with the writing, due to the way it played out. 😮💨
I always respect when authors attempt free verse to convey a story. It has to be very engaging and interactive and compelling to make you feel the reason why one narrates the plot in that format. But, with uneven shifts in perspective between the two, that did not only alternate unevenly with the characters, but the transition from free verse to snippets of dialogue, which was more than just script, was not at all smooth or easily balanced. 😒
“Because what’s holier
than to feel deeply?
To feel deeply is to be alive
and what’s holier than to live
and feel.”
To me, the poetry snippets were just a substitution for having both characters echo their inner thoughts and sentiments - broken drown at intervals for each of them to otherwise reflect on their actions and events of the sunrise nights. It made then the change BACK to long drawn out scenarios hard to stay invested in. 😥 And I love poetry! Look how many highlights were of their poetic thoughts, as well! I liked getting inside their heads; both of them were experiencing emotions and fears that were relatable and rational. I'm not saying that YA books should follow a certain pattern as to how to share their stories, but to keep the readers interested - there has to be some engaging interaction that would make me feel like I should care about their chemistry or their relationship. 😢
The characters did not have enough weight or personality to them - because of how limited the time frame we got to spend with them. I felt like in the actual written parts - there was more freedom to it, and if the authors had simply chosen to tell the story in that format - I think it could have been a much better well-executed story. I mean, we get TOLD of their many talents and skills in just a few words or sparse glimpses; I guess, then, the emphasis of this story really was just to focus on how romance can exist within these few meetings.
There were some worthwhile moments. Ones that shined with youthful exuberance of the exhilarating rush of standing on the precipice of falling for the unattainable. Of knowing that life and your emotions are at war with each other, when all one wants to do is give into temptation and desire. 🥺 The happiness of finding a kindred spirit in the sanctity of the quiet darkness that exists for only a number of hours that is devoid of any interruption or daunting fear, but the chance to speak one's own fears into the void and have someone return in kindness - a word of comfort - a word of understanding. 🫂
“Sometimes I think the only things we’re put on this earth for are to create art and make connections with the people we’re supposed to connect with.”
I was glad when Florence exhibited some form of reasoning that it is impossible to believe they could be in love for how brief their meetings were - 'these three nights that, like, flooded me.'. 💘 It was hard to see how she struggled with the loss of a passion she loved severely and her attempt to find something more to hold her interest. I felt for Jude's doubts and insecurities over himself and his own capabilities. I liked seeing him find ways to cope and help himself. I appreciated that the authors did not allow their lives to be entirely stagnant in the time they were apart. That as much as they held onto the promise of reuniting and returning with the same feelings, it was not without consideration. That it did not permit them to not experience life in the ways they could have. 👍🏻
I did not like, though, that one of the reasons for their fallouts was miscommunication, nor for the fact that deception was such a point being pushed upon. 😕 Some of the dialogue exchanges also felt a bit too perfect and pretty to feel natural or sincere, to me. I don't know - it's been awhile since I was sixteen, but they were just so wholesome with each other from the start, that as much as it did not bother me that the two of them were together, it also still did not feel like a relationship that was a real one.
Does that make sense? 🤔
In any event, I don't deny that the overlying message was made, it just did not click with me. It was difficult for me to stay truly interested in it - I think, it took me three nights to complete - not kidding! 😩 It just felt unnecessarily long, and I think if it had chosen to tell the story in one singular format - I would have enjoyed it much more and felt a deeper connection and affinity to the characters' relationship. But, with the original base of their premise being one that I don't find entirely favorable either - then it is safe to say that even before I read it, it had already set itself up for a possible troubled read. I only wish it could have proven me wrong. 😞
August 30, 2024
This book is poetry and romance and coming of age but on the older scale (like off to college) and the premise was cute. Even when there were romantic tropes it was so tongue in cheek that you kind of just went with it. Another solid Zentner book and I’m new to the other author but now I want to read more of her stuff! Definitely recommend and can’t wait to read again.
April 14, 2024
“I can’t control when things hurt too much.’ ‘No one can.’”
🌅
Jude and Florence are spending the summer at HAC, an art camp. Jude is there for photography and Florence is there for dance. When the two meet for the first time at the camp bonfire on the last night they both decide to spend Sunrise Night together. It’s an annual camp tradition that allows campers to spend the entire night doing whatever they want then watch the sunrise together. Their connection is immediate and both are dealing with pretty big issues. In order to keep things from getting too serious since Jude has a girlfriend, they decide not to communicate again until Sunrise Night the next year. They do this for three years at the end of their high school careers, all while growing and changing in the process.
🌄
This #YA mix of #novelinverse and dialogue was so beautifully done it made my heart ache. Florence’s loss of dance and Jude’s parents’ divorce were both relatable and, at the same time, wholly their own process to go through. @jeffzentner brought his trademark prose on every page while @bricavallaro brilliant storytelling has this #novel a match made in author heaven. I can’t wait for it to release July 9.
CW: eye surgery (referenced), loss of sight, hospitalization, divorce, anxiety, OCD
🌅
Jude and Florence are spending the summer at HAC, an art camp. Jude is there for photography and Florence is there for dance. When the two meet for the first time at the camp bonfire on the last night they both decide to spend Sunrise Night together. It’s an annual camp tradition that allows campers to spend the entire night doing whatever they want then watch the sunrise together. Their connection is immediate and both are dealing with pretty big issues. In order to keep things from getting too serious since Jude has a girlfriend, they decide not to communicate again until Sunrise Night the next year. They do this for three years at the end of their high school careers, all while growing and changing in the process.
🌄
This #YA mix of #novelinverse and dialogue was so beautifully done it made my heart ache. Florence’s loss of dance and Jude’s parents’ divorce were both relatable and, at the same time, wholly their own process to go through. @jeffzentner brought his trademark prose on every page while @bricavallaro brilliant storytelling has this #novel a match made in author heaven. I can’t wait for it to release July 9.
CW: eye surgery (referenced), loss of sight, hospitalization, divorce, anxiety, OCD
July 26, 2024
ABSOLUTE YA ROMANCE GOLD!! Written entirely in verse and dialogue, this sweet and heartfelt, but also hilarious and witty, story is so damn SMART. I loved the Madison, WI references from Florence so much and Zentner’s Tennessee heart shone through loud and clear in Jude. I want more more more from this writing partnership.
Source: public library hardcover
Source: public library hardcover
July 16, 2024
3.5 Stars ✨
“My heart crackles, on fire -as I approach the crowd milling around bonfire, and not in the way your heart sometimes glows in joyous anticipation of something that will nourish it, more in the way of something being consumed by a force that does what it will, that resists your control, that makes less what it touches. There’s probably something you can take to dull the edge of this feeling, but I’m scared of dulling other edges that I need sharp, that let me cut a path through this world.”
Two teen artists meet on the last night of summer camp, which is called Sunrise Nights. It’s a night that lasts from dusk to dawn . Florence is a dancer, Jude is a photographer. Both have personal issues that they are fighting within (anxiety & loss of sight) Holding nothing back, they confide in one another on this one night- never expecting to see each other again. They go and do random things around town just to enjoy the night. Dawn awaits and they decide to make a plan. The plan is to have no contact for a whole year until the next camp. Over the course of three years and three Sunrise nights, they have a chance to find themselves, and make a deeper connection without interference, by the end hoping they may even find room for each other.
I absolutely love Jeff Zentner books, and his magical writing- he is such a modern day poet in my opinion. His words are calculated and get inside your bones. Sunrise Nights is written going back and forth between verse and dialogue, this time with a co writer Brittany Cavallaro. I think they did a great job with this story, even though it wasn’t my favorite of his books, I still enjoyed it. The book was very stereotypical YA and you feel the atmosphere of a teenage “summer night”. If you’ve ever seen the movie Before Sunrise, it’s a lot like that except it takes place at a summer camp. I felt the book moved at a good pace and helps keep the reader engaged. It was a pretty clean read, with light language and some kissing. There is talk of anxiety, divorce, ocd and medical problems.
“My heart crackles, on fire -as I approach the crowd milling around bonfire, and not in the way your heart sometimes glows in joyous anticipation of something that will nourish it, more in the way of something being consumed by a force that does what it will, that resists your control, that makes less what it touches. There’s probably something you can take to dull the edge of this feeling, but I’m scared of dulling other edges that I need sharp, that let me cut a path through this world.”
Two teen artists meet on the last night of summer camp, which is called Sunrise Nights. It’s a night that lasts from dusk to dawn . Florence is a dancer, Jude is a photographer. Both have personal issues that they are fighting within (anxiety & loss of sight) Holding nothing back, they confide in one another on this one night- never expecting to see each other again. They go and do random things around town just to enjoy the night. Dawn awaits and they decide to make a plan. The plan is to have no contact for a whole year until the next camp. Over the course of three years and three Sunrise nights, they have a chance to find themselves, and make a deeper connection without interference, by the end hoping they may even find room for each other.
I absolutely love Jeff Zentner books, and his magical writing- he is such a modern day poet in my opinion. His words are calculated and get inside your bones. Sunrise Nights is written going back and forth between verse and dialogue, this time with a co writer Brittany Cavallaro. I think they did a great job with this story, even though it wasn’t my favorite of his books, I still enjoyed it. The book was very stereotypical YA and you feel the atmosphere of a teenage “summer night”. If you’ve ever seen the movie Before Sunrise, it’s a lot like that except it takes place at a summer camp. I felt the book moved at a good pace and helps keep the reader engaged. It was a pretty clean read, with light language and some kissing. There is talk of anxiety, divorce, ocd and medical problems.
May 7, 2024
Thank you to the author, publisher, and Net Galley for an ARC of this book. Any and all views and opinions expressed are my own and voluntary.
I adored this novel. It was a very easy read. I fell in love with the characters. The writing was so vivid and clear, it put me there at HAC camp with Jude and Florence. I almost felt like I was intruding on their private moments. The story and writing are just beautiful and hopeful while dealing with tough subjects. I love all the references to books, poems, etc. I looked up several- a good book does that, makes you want to learn more so you can connect more to the story. And I can't forget to mention Rayven--an interesting secondary character-love her.
I will be purchasing this book for our high school library.
I adored this novel. It was a very easy read. I fell in love with the characters. The writing was so vivid and clear, it put me there at HAC camp with Jude and Florence. I almost felt like I was intruding on their private moments. The story and writing are just beautiful and hopeful while dealing with tough subjects. I love all the references to books, poems, etc. I looked up several- a good book does that, makes you want to learn more so you can connect more to the story. And I can't forget to mention Rayven--an interesting secondary character-love her.
I will be purchasing this book for our high school library.
July 9, 2024
I loved every second of this!!
July 29, 2024
This was a moving YA coming of age romance told in alternating chapters of verse and prose. Beautifully written, this book takes place over 3 summer nights spread out over 3 years and sees two teens falling in love and grappling with mental health, parental divorce and debilitating chronic illness (nystagmus, that causes loss of sight and balance issues).
Passionate about photography, Jude also has anxiety hates that his parents are divorcing and later gets diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, whereas as Florence has a degenerative eye condition that is growing increasingly worse and threatens to derail her dreams of becoming a professional ballerina. Sweet, poignant and very relatable, this was a quick read that I enjoyed a lot as an audiobook! Highly recommended and I really hope to see more collaborations between Zentner and Cavallaro.
Fav quotes:
“I was thinking that this is what you hope
love is: you enter a house
full of monsters with someone
and then you fight for each other
until you can’t fight anymore.”
“Sometimes I think the only things we’re put on this earth for are to create art and make connections with the people we’re supposed to connect with.”
Passionate about photography, Jude also has anxiety hates that his parents are divorcing and later gets diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, whereas as Florence has a degenerative eye condition that is growing increasingly worse and threatens to derail her dreams of becoming a professional ballerina. Sweet, poignant and very relatable, this was a quick read that I enjoyed a lot as an audiobook! Highly recommended and I really hope to see more collaborations between Zentner and Cavallaro.
Fav quotes:
“I was thinking that this is what you hope
love is: you enter a house
full of monsters with someone
and then you fight for each other
until you can’t fight anymore.”
“Sometimes I think the only things we’re put on this earth for are to create art and make connections with the people we’re supposed to connect with.”
July 13, 2024
Ah, where to begin with Sunrise Nights? Well first of all, you know the vibes you get during summer nights? This book is literally those vibes in written form. It is lovely. And felt very relatable- though I have never been in any of the situations the characters find themselves in, I still totally understood and related to their emotions and feelings. Admittedly, I worried a bit because what the heck do I know about art camp? But frankly, dancing is a sport just as much as an art, and who doesn't love photography? That is to say, it was completely fine!
And I just adored Jude and Florence. They're both dealing with their own stuff when they happen to meet at the "Sunrise Night" bonfire at their camp. Neither has any real intention of staying, but they start talking, and just... click. And so begins their story. Honestly I don't even want to say much about it, except that it is lovely. I think because they are strangers, they both let themselves be vulnerable and open up to the other, since they've nothing to lose.
Along the way, there are all kinds of misunderstandings, hilariously funny moments, epic banter, tears, laughter, embarrassment, regret, heartache... basically, this book covers all the emotions, and it covers them well. Both characters, over the course of multiple summers, also go through some pretty serious life changes, have to make major decisions, etc. And sometimes, they'll make some wrong ones that will be frustrating, but then... well, then you remember that people make mistakes, and it's how you come back from them that matters.
Bottom Line: Beautiful and breathtaking, just like a summer night.
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
And I just adored Jude and Florence. They're both dealing with their own stuff when they happen to meet at the "Sunrise Night" bonfire at their camp. Neither has any real intention of staying, but they start talking, and just... click. And so begins their story. Honestly I don't even want to say much about it, except that it is lovely. I think because they are strangers, they both let themselves be vulnerable and open up to the other, since they've nothing to lose.
Along the way, there are all kinds of misunderstandings, hilariously funny moments, epic banter, tears, laughter, embarrassment, regret, heartache... basically, this book covers all the emotions, and it covers them well. Both characters, over the course of multiple summers, also go through some pretty serious life changes, have to make major decisions, etc. And sometimes, they'll make some wrong ones that will be frustrating, but then... well, then you remember that people make mistakes, and it's how you come back from them that matters.
Bottom Line: Beautiful and breathtaking, just like a summer night.
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
August 3, 2024
It is no secret that I am a huge Jeff Zentner fan, so when I found out he had not one, but TWO novels coming out this year, I was ecstatic! I preordered Sunrise Nights and read it almost as soon as I got it. This is such a perfect summer romance novel - the summer camp, the one sunrise night a year, the slow burn - I loved it. The story is told in dual POVs as well as alternating between chapters in dialogue and chapters in verse and it worked so well, it really kept the story moving along, and I finished the book way faster than I intended 😅 Jude and Florence were very distinct voices and personalities. Their banter was top-notch and seeing them fall in love just warmed my heart. Jude was like a perfect mix of all of Jeff Zentner's other young male protagonists, and Florence had me wanting to jump back into the world of Charlotte Holmes (Brittany Cavallaro's YA mystery series). I hope this isn't the last time Zentner and Cavallaro collaborate ❤️
July 16, 2024
I adored this. I’m a sucker for novels in verse, and the writing in this was so beautiful it literally took my breath away a few times. Like, I had to stop and reread and just sit with it.
This is primarily a romance book, but also has some great side stuff going on. But the most important thing is that I feel like I could actually understand why Jude and Florence liked each other. The whole book is basically three long conversations, and made me feel connected to the characters, and understand why they’re connected to each other.
Also proper, non-stereotypical OCD representation whaaat?!?!
This was one of the most enjoyable reads I’ve had this year.
This is primarily a romance book, but also has some great side stuff going on. But the most important thing is that I feel like I could actually understand why Jude and Florence liked each other. The whole book is basically three long conversations, and made me feel connected to the characters, and understand why they’re connected to each other.
Also proper, non-stereotypical OCD representation whaaat?!?!
This was one of the most enjoyable reads I’ve had this year.
July 16, 2024
A Jeff Zentner novel written in verse and set in the U.P.? I’m all in! An ode to the Before trilogy, Florence & Jude meet once a year at art camp for three summers. They spend Sunrise Night together- the final evening of camp. The teens slowly build a relationship as they struggle with real issues. This is a sweet novel of friendship & romance with quirky characters and not too much teen angst that can make the YA genre hard for adults to enjoy. A wonderful summer read.
August 17, 2024
It’s not perfect, but there’s something just so fun about kids having the best summers of their lives. It definitely got me through the first weeks of school blues.
July 10, 2024
Jude and Florence meet on the final night of their summer arts camp. Jude, passionate about photography amidst personal struggles, and Florence, facing the end of her dance career due to a degenerative eye disease, embark on a transformative journey during three consecutive Sunrise Nights, testing their connection and identities while adhering to a unique pact of no contact for a year after each event.
This! Book!
First of all - YA is everything to me. Everything. I knew I needed this book as soon as it was announced. It’s so gorgeously told. Every interaction was great. I was laughing and tearing up.
Jude and Florence balance each other so well. They had miscommunication (duh they’re teenagers!) and so many great jokes and funny lines. But they also got down to the tough stuff and truly got to know each other. Though they didn’t spend much time together, that time was so valuable and cherished by each of them.
Side note: loved how Ravyn popped up each time. She was amazing.
The ending is so well earned, and by the time that first kiss happens you’re sighing dreamily.
This poetry and dialogue was just stunning. Cannot wait to hold my physical copy in my hands tomorrow AND I get to meet @jeffzentner and @bricavallaro this Friday so I’ll gush about it to them in person too! @michael.l.crouch slayed yet again narrating for Jude and I absolutely adored @alexandrahuntervo’s narration for Florence.
A truly lovely novel about the magic of falling in love. Gorgeous.
This! Book!
First of all - YA is everything to me. Everything. I knew I needed this book as soon as it was announced. It’s so gorgeously told. Every interaction was great. I was laughing and tearing up.
Jude and Florence balance each other so well. They had miscommunication (duh they’re teenagers!) and so many great jokes and funny lines. But they also got down to the tough stuff and truly got to know each other. Though they didn’t spend much time together, that time was so valuable and cherished by each of them.
Side note: loved how Ravyn popped up each time. She was amazing.
The ending is so well earned, and by the time that first kiss happens you’re sighing dreamily.
This poetry and dialogue was just stunning. Cannot wait to hold my physical copy in my hands tomorrow AND I get to meet @jeffzentner and @bricavallaro this Friday so I’ll gush about it to them in person too! @michael.l.crouch slayed yet again narrating for Jude and I absolutely adored @alexandrahuntervo’s narration for Florence.
A truly lovely novel about the magic of falling in love. Gorgeous.
July 31, 2024
Sunrise Nights: A Captivating Exploration of Youth and Loss
Jeff Zentner and Brittany Cavallaro's Sunrise Nights is a poignant and beautifully crafted exploration of young love, loss, and the fleeting nature of summer. The novel, told in a compelling mix of verse and dialogue, introduces us to Jude and Florence, two artistic souls grappling with their personal challenges.
Jude, a talented photographer, finds solace behind the lens, using it as a shield against the emotional turmoil caused by his parents' divorce. Florence, a passionate dancer, is facing the heart-wrenching reality of a degenerative eye condition that threatens her career. Their paths converge during a magical night at summer camp, a night filled with endless possibilities and the promise of a future that seems to stretch on forever.
The authors deftly capture the essence of adolescence, with its mix of exhilaration and uncertainty. Their characters are complex and relatable, their voices are authentic and compelling. The story unfolds delicately, allowing readers to connect deeply with Jude and Florence's emotional journeys.
Sunrise Nights is more than just a romance novel. It's a meditation on the power of art, the fragility of hope, and the enduring nature of human connection. The author's lyrical prose and vivid imagery create an enchanting and heartbreaking world. This book will stay with you long after the final page.
Jeff Zentner and Brittany Cavallaro's Sunrise Nights is a poignant and beautifully crafted exploration of young love, loss, and the fleeting nature of summer. The novel, told in a compelling mix of verse and dialogue, introduces us to Jude and Florence, two artistic souls grappling with their personal challenges.
Jude, a talented photographer, finds solace behind the lens, using it as a shield against the emotional turmoil caused by his parents' divorce. Florence, a passionate dancer, is facing the heart-wrenching reality of a degenerative eye condition that threatens her career. Their paths converge during a magical night at summer camp, a night filled with endless possibilities and the promise of a future that seems to stretch on forever.
The authors deftly capture the essence of adolescence, with its mix of exhilaration and uncertainty. Their characters are complex and relatable, their voices are authentic and compelling. The story unfolds delicately, allowing readers to connect deeply with Jude and Florence's emotional journeys.
Sunrise Nights is more than just a romance novel. It's a meditation on the power of art, the fragility of hope, and the enduring nature of human connection. The author's lyrical prose and vivid imagery create an enchanting and heartbreaking world. This book will stay with you long after the final page.
July 5, 2024
Thank you, #NetGalley and Harper Collin's Children's Books, for allowing me an advanced copy of Sunrise Nights by Jeff Zentner and Brittany Cavallaro. # #SunriseNights
Zenter and Cavallaro's dual perspective is beautifully crafted in prose and verse, and both writing styles flow seamlessly. Their masterpiece concerns two young artists: Florence, a dancer who is losing her eyesight, and Jude, a beautiful photographer who deals with his mental challenges. Both find themselves on the last day of their summer art camp, Sunrise Night. On this night, HACers, which is what the campers are called, are allowed to stay up all night and explore the town. Florence and Jude make a plan to go into town for pizza. Over a cheesy slice, the two get to know each other. Their adventure and getting to know each other grows. They promise not to talk to each other over the school year and meet back up the next sunrise night. The second time meeting, things are different between them, and feelings start to grow. Their second night ends drastically different than their first. Will their third sunrise night get any better? Read Sunrise Nights today to learn about the rest of Florence and Jude's story!
This is a must-read for any YA reader and should be in every school library!
Subjects to be aware of: Mental Health- OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Disability, and Divorce
Zenter and Cavallaro's dual perspective is beautifully crafted in prose and verse, and both writing styles flow seamlessly. Their masterpiece concerns two young artists: Florence, a dancer who is losing her eyesight, and Jude, a beautiful photographer who deals with his mental challenges. Both find themselves on the last day of their summer art camp, Sunrise Night. On this night, HACers, which is what the campers are called, are allowed to stay up all night and explore the town. Florence and Jude make a plan to go into town for pizza. Over a cheesy slice, the two get to know each other. Their adventure and getting to know each other grows. They promise not to talk to each other over the school year and meet back up the next sunrise night. The second time meeting, things are different between them, and feelings start to grow. Their second night ends drastically different than their first. Will their third sunrise night get any better? Read Sunrise Nights today to learn about the rest of Florence and Jude's story!
This is a must-read for any YA reader and should be in every school library!
Subjects to be aware of: Mental Health- OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Disability, and Divorce
August 1, 2024
Another winner from Jeff Zentner. I absolutely loved his characters and the emotion that he weaves into his stories. I love him so much. This was a teenage love story. I've read adult books where people meet and like each other and even though they have significant others, they meet at the same place each year to have an affair. I hate those books. This was written in the same vein, only it was ok because they weren't married and they were young kids figuring out who they were together, but more importantly separately from each other. I really loved it. I didn't sob, but I felt myself choked up many times and it gave me an appreciation and understanding of what my own teens will go through in their own romantic lives over the coming years.
August 21, 2024
This book. It left me nostalgic and sad and there is nothing more that I want from a book than that.
I even texted a friend saying they needed to come watch my kids so I could just sit and read it. I didn’t do it. But I wanted to. Instead I stayed up obscenely late reading it just sinking into all my thoughts and feelings.
I was hesitant when I found out this book was in verse but it also had dialogue and it was perfect. It was everything I needed.
Sad girl vibes.
Read if you enjoyed: Colton Gentry’s Third Act, Breathless or The Ballad of Darcy and Russell
I even texted a friend saying they needed to come watch my kids so I could just sit and read it. I didn’t do it. But I wanted to. Instead I stayed up obscenely late reading it just sinking into all my thoughts and feelings.
I was hesitant when I found out this book was in verse but it also had dialogue and it was perfect. It was everything I needed.
Sad girl vibes.
Read if you enjoyed: Colton Gentry’s Third Act, Breathless or The Ballad of Darcy and Russell
July 4, 2024
I say this as a thoroughly biased, Zentner stan: this book was perfect. Jeff is officially 5/5 for me with huggable reads (books I must hug close to my chest after turning the final page).
Cavallaro and Zentner make an incredible writing team. I received a copy as a free giveaway at a librarian's conference a week early, but I cannot wait to go and purchase my "official" copy on July 9 to support these authors and their work.
Cavallaro and Zentner make an incredible writing team. I received a copy as a free giveaway at a librarian's conference a week early, but I cannot wait to go and purchase my "official" copy on July 9 to support these authors and their work.
July 24, 2024
Jude and Florence meet at the beginning of “Sunrise Night,” a yearly tradition at the arts camp where they go. They decide to spend the night exploring the town together, trying to make it till sunrise. Along the way, they find themselves being surprisingly vulnerable as they are more strongly drawn to each other as time goes on, but the two live nowhere near each other and have their own complicated lives to sort out back home, making their time together even more precarious.
Listen, I will literally read anything and everything Jeff Zentner writes, and I have yet to regret that decision. I’ve never read Brittany Cavallaro before, but I quite enjoyed her writing, too. Florence is prickly in all the right ways but also forthright and realistic. Jude is anxious and endearing, and following along as the two came together and drifted apart was fun. I laughed out loud at their dialogue at times, and genuinely just had a good time reading this, which I really needed since I’ve been in a looong slump at this point.
Listen, I will literally read anything and everything Jeff Zentner writes, and I have yet to regret that decision. I’ve never read Brittany Cavallaro before, but I quite enjoyed her writing, too. Florence is prickly in all the right ways but also forthright and realistic. Jude is anxious and endearing, and following along as the two came together and drifted apart was fun. I laughed out loud at their dialogue at times, and genuinely just had a good time reading this, which I really needed since I’ve been in a looong slump at this point.
September 12, 2024
I'm really starting to feel like I'm outgrowing Zentner here, between this book and how I was whelmed at best with Colton Gentry's Third Act. To be fair, this one is very different for Zentner, not only a collaboration with another author (and I've never read anything by Brittany Cavallaro yet, though her solo books do seem interesting), but also partly a novel in verse (half verse and half dialogue, but still somewhat jarring to read), and also no longer in Zentner's usual Deep South settings, but instead in Michigan, which I believe was Cavallaro's idea so no fault to her on that one. But the story in this book just feels like a half-baked, watered-down John Green love story (and I say this being extremely not a fan of John Green), right down to the fact that one of the teenagers in this couple is disabled (though far from just being set-dressing, her degenerative eye condition is pretty essential to her character.) Unfortunately, for me, it's gonna have to be a DNF.
July 26, 2024
I listened to the audiobook and loved the narrators. This book was full of hope and yearning with beautiful verse and dialogue. The characters only see/speak with each other three times in a span of three years and find themselves falling in love at summer camp during "Sunrise Nights." It was such a fun read, and I really enjoyed the dialogue chapters mixed in with the verse chapters.
August 3, 2024
the perfection that this book is. god there are no words to describe just how much i loved everything about this. this is, by far, the most beautiful book i've read this year. i knew i was in for an incredibly emotional ride because jeff's and brittany's writing individually never fails to make me bawl my eyes out but i never realised i was signing up for such a heavenly experience
July 11, 2024
This is a YA version of the movie, Before Sunrise. But its missing the banter for me.
And there are some components that are a bit farfetched 🤷🏻♀️
And there are some components that are a bit farfetched 🤷🏻♀️
Shelved as 'dnf'
August 7, 2024DNF @ 16%
Simplemente no es para mí. Hay libros que los sentís o no los sentís, y este realmente no es lo mío. Quizás Zentner no es un autor para mí and that's okay.
Simplemente no es para mí. Hay libros que los sentís o no los sentís, y este realmente no es lo mío. Quizás Zentner no es un autor para mí and that's okay.
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