Seasons Change T1D book review

This book review is going to be showcasing Type One Diabetes in a whole new way. The second Sugar Squad Chronicle book, Seasons Change, is an amazing book, just as good as its predecessor. The first book, Camp Lessons was about Greyson learning to manage his diabetes, and not be ashamed of it. Camp Sweetwater, a diabetes camp, is the reason for this change, and Ava, the main character in the second book, is also greatly changed by the camp. Read my review on the first book here for more information.

Seasons Change, the second book in the Sugar Squad Chronicles, is told from Ava’s, Greyson’s best friend’s, point of view. Just like in the first book, the story starts for Ava at Camp Sweetwater, a diabetes camp. She enjoys her time there, and treasures the knowledge and memories that she gained there. But, when Ava gets home her summer begins to go downhill; her parents got a divorce. Throughout the book, Ava struggles with having two homes, and tries to distract herself with school, volleyball, and her diabetic puppy, Buddy. Ava’s struggles are not only relational, but also with Type One Diabetes, making her a relatable character for many.

In my post, Importance of T1D in Literature, I mentioned that relatable diabetic characters can be helpful, to people living with Type One Diabetes. In the Sugar Squad series, there are many characters present with the condition, so readers can really feel engaged and represented. At times, diabetics may feel alone in their struggles, but the characters in the book all have common health related fears and struggles. They have to manage highs and lows, dosing for food, and even playing sports with the disease. Some of the characters struggle from the toll of always having to be aware of blood sugars, while others fear that T1D could ruin their chance at sports. This book can be a good reminder that you are not alone, in fact there are many other people out there with Type One Diabetes.

Unlike in other books with T1D characters, diabetes is developed over time and in a creative way. The story doesn’t just have a paragraph about what Type One Diabetes is, but it developed the condition in creative ways. In the first book, Greyson and Owen’s website provides a good way of informing the reader about the disease, and in this second installment there are many different circumstances that add more information about T1D.

One thing is showcased in this book that isn’t in the first. In the book, Ava goes to the pet store to pick out a dog, and meets Buddy. In an instant, she knows he is the perfect dog, even after she finds out that he has diabetes. Her mother is reluctant, but Ava begs her mom to let her get the dog. Throughout the book, the reader gets to learn more about animals with diabetes, and how they still need insulin and to eat low carb food.

I would highly recommend this fast-paced and interesting story. T1D doesn’t overtake the book, in fact it holds the plot together and influences the characters. Throughout the book, you get to learn more about Type One Diabetes, from animals living with diabetes to carb counting and much more.