SOLVED. Tween book - kid goes up to a cottage (?) for the summer, coming of age novel, one character doesn't talk. Read late 90's early 00's. Spoilers below. [s]

[Meghan]

I read this as a child and loved it but may be mixing up some details with other books. I believe the character who didn't talk was named 'Anna'. I think there was a boy but the romance aspect was understated and not the main theme.

Spoilers: there was some family tragedy and swimming to a location across the lake (maybe an old house?) was a big deal. Near the end of the book, the main character tried to make the swim and was struggling, Anna in the boat next to them along the way tried to say a word to help encourage them and it was a big deal.

Also remember that the character talked about how soft their feet were at the beginning of the book, and by the end of the book could 'stomp' their way around with their hard bare feet.

evokes imagery of a bird or a paddle, and the colour purple, memories are funny things!!

[Rainbowheart]

That Silent Summer

[Meghan]

oh my god you're my hero!!! thank you!!

[Rainbowheart]

You're welcome, glad to help out!