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The Last Song

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2009

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Book Brief

Nicholas Sparks

The Last Song

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

432

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Romance

Dramatic Literature

Coming of Age
Setting

Wilmington, North Carolina • Contemporary

Theme
Love

Emotions/Behavior: Courage

Forgiveness
Publication Year

2009

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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Super Short Summary

The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks follows seventeen-year-old Ronnie Miller, who spends a transformative summer in North Carolina with her estranged father, Steve, and ten-year-old brother, Jonah. Initially rebellious, Ronnie reconnects with her father through their shared love of music and forms a romantic relationship with Will Blakelee. Sensitive topics such as terminal illness and divorce are explored in the story.

Romantic

Emotional

Bittersweet

Melancholic

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.4

567,357 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Nicholas Sparks' The Last Song is praised for its emotional depth and heartwarming portrayal of familial bonds, particularly the father-daughter relationship. Critics appreciate the strong character development. However, some feel the narrative is formulaic and predictably sentimental. Overall, it is a touching read, appealing to fans of romantic and family dramas.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Last Song?

Readers who enjoy heartfelt romance, emotional journeys, and themes of family reconciliation will be captivated by The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks. Fans of Sparks' own The Notebook and works by Jodi Picoult and Richard Paul Evans will find this novel equally compelling and poignant.

4.4

567,357 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Veronica “Ronnie” Miller

A 17-year-old girl whose summer with her estranged father in North Carolina transforms her from a rebellious teenager to a more compassionate young adult. Her journey involves reconnecting with her artistic talent and navigating complex family relationships.

Ronnie and Jonah’s father, who is patient, selfless, and deeply connected to art, providing a moral foundation for the story. He works on a stained-glass window project and shares a special bond with his children.

A local teenager who becomes Ronnie’s love interest, helping her in her emotional growth. He navigates his own challenges and demonstrates a sense of responsibility in his relationships and actions.

A troubled teenager who initially appears as a kindred spirit to Ronnie but is entangled with her abusive boyfriend Marcus. Her actions impact Ronnie's summer, leading to significant plot developments.

The story's antagonist, characterized by his destructive tendencies and manipulation of those around him. He creates external conflicts, particularly for Ronnie and Will.

Ronnie's 10-year-old brother, who provides comedic relief and emotional clarity. He is close to his father and remains a source of uncomplicated love within the family.

Will’s best friend, who is characterized by his athletic ambition and moral immaturity. His actions inadvertently contribute to significant events in the plot, contrasting with Will’s ethical growth.

Book Details
Pages

432

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Romance

Dramatic Literature

Coming of Age
Setting

Wilmington, North Carolina • Contemporary

Theme
Love

Emotions/Behavior: Courage

Forgiveness
Publication Year

2009

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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