Donut Summer
Donut Summer by Anita Kelly is a YA debut published by HarperCollins Publishers on July 29, 2025. This original edition spans 368 pages and is presented in English. The narrative follows two teens, Penny Dexter and Mateo della Penna, who find themselves working together at Delicious Donuts during the summer. As they navigate their differences and a long-standing feud, they must also confront the looming threat of a corporate takeover that endangers their workplace.
Readers will discover a sweet and satisfying queer romance that unfolds against the backdrop of social issues relevant to today’s youth. The story explores themes of anxiety, ambition, and the complexities of teen relationships while highlighting the importance of community and support. As Penny and Mateo work to save the donut shop, they also learn to appreciate each other’s strengths, ultimately discovering that their connection may be more significant than they initially thought.
Official synopsis Publisher
Anita Kelly delivers their YA debut–a sweet and satisfying queer romance about two teens who fall for each other while trying to save the local donut shop where they’re working for the summer.
“Relaxing” and “getting a tan” may be on most teens’ summer to-do lists, but for chronically freckled and deeply anxious Penny Dexter? Not a chance. Socking money away for college? Of course. Babysitting her siblings? Sure. Becoming a climate scientist and saving the world? She wishes.
At least she can tackle the tuition money with the seasonal gig she landed at Delicious Donuts. But when she finds out that her genderqueer nemesis, Mateo della Penna, will also be working behind the counter, Penny’s summer of mindless labor instantly vanishes before her eyes. Mateo is ridiculous and artsy, and their favorite kind of donut is Boston Crème (gross!). But the duo’s two-and-a-half-year feud will have to take a backseat when the donut shop is threatened by a corporate takeover.
As their small town faces big pressure, and anxiety threatens everything Penny’s worked for, there’s still one person who remains by her side. And though their taste in donuts is questionable, Mateo’s presence manages to keep Penny calm and focused. Could it be that Penny’s found the perfect, most infuriating person to change the world with?
Author
Publisher
Topics
FAQ
What is “Donut Summer” about?
Who is the author of “Donut Summer”?
When was “Donut Summer” published?
What is the ISBN for “Donut Summer”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
