Synopsis
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pacing
- Moderate
- Mood
- Heartwarming, Reflective, Hopeful, Sweet
- Read it if
- You enjoy coming-of-age stories about self-discovery, female friendships, and quiet summer romances.
- Skip it if
- You prefer high-stakes plots or very fast-paced narratives.
Keeping the Moon Plot Summary
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
Arrival in Colby
Colie expects a miserable summer when her mother, the infomercial star Angle, sends her to Colby, North Carolina, to stay with her bohemian Aunt Mira. Colie feels like an outcast, having recently lost weight but gained a reputation as 'easy' after a humiliating incident at a party involving a boy named Norman. She is withdrawn and insecure, dreading small-town life. Aunt Mira, a free-spirited artist, lives in a house filled with bright colors and unusual art, a contrast to Colie's sterile home life. Mira immediately tries to make Colie feel at home, but Colie remains guarded, convinced this summer will be as lonely as her life back home.
The Last Chance Cafe
Aunt Mira encourages Colie to find a job, and Colie hesitantly applies at the Last Chance Cafe, a local diner known for its atmosphere and loyal customers. To her surprise, she is hired. There she meets her fellow waitresses, Morgan and Isabel. Morgan is outgoing, confident, and loyal, while Isabel is more reserved, artistic, and sensitive. The two are best friends, their relationship a mix of playful talk and deep affection. Colie, used to being invisible or judged, is at first overwhelmed by their strong personalities and close bond, struggling to find her place among them.
Learning the Ropes and First Friendships
Colie's first days at the Last Chance Cafe are a challenge. She is clumsy, forgets orders, and struggles with the fast pace. Morgan and Isabel, however, are patient and supportive, teaching her what to do and defending her from grumpy customers. Through their daily interactions, Colie starts to observe their unique friendship and personalities. Morgan, with her sharp wit, often takes charge, while Isabel offers a gentler, more thoughtful view. Colie, who has never had close friends, slowly begins to open up, finding comfort in their company and the shared experience of working at the diner. She starts to feel a sense of belonging she has never known.
A Day at the Lake and Shared Stories
Morgan and Isabel invite Colie to spend a day at the lake with them, an experience that strengthens their new friendship. Away from the cafe, Colie sees a different side of her new friends. They share stories, laugh, and for the first time, Colie feels truly relaxed and accepted. During a conversation, Colie cautiously reveals some of her past struggles, particularly her history of being overweight and the recent 'easy' reputation that has troubled her. Morgan and Isabel listen without judgment, offering empathy. This shared openness marks a turning point, making Colie realize that these girls might be the first true friends she has ever had.
Meeting Norman and Confronting the Past
Just as Colie begins to feel more secure, her past unexpectedly reappears. She sees Norman, the boy from the party who spread rumors about her, at the Last Chance Cafe. The sight of him triggers insecurity and shame, reminding her of the humiliation she endured. Colie retreats, her new confidence wavering. Morgan and Isabel, noticing her distress, ask for details. Colie reluctantly explains the incident, revealing how Norman's actions branded her as 'easy' and isolated her from her peers. Her friends are outraged on her behalf, their protective instincts showing, which surprises and comforts Colie.
The Art Show and Aunt Mira's Wisdom
Colie spends time helping Aunt Mira prepare for an upcoming art show. Mira, always observing, senses Colie's lingering pain and offers gentle guidance. She encourages Colie to embrace her unique qualities and not let others define her worth. Mira's artistic philosophy, which values imperfection and authenticity, begins to connect with Colie. She observes Mira's confidence and self-acceptance, realizing that her aunt embodies the qualities Colie is seeking. This period of quiet thought and creative work with Mira gives Colie a much-needed sense of peace and a different way of looking at herself and the world.
A New Romance and Growing Confidence
As Colie grows more comfortable in Colby, she catches the attention of a local boy named Ben. Unlike Norman, Ben is kind, respectful, and genuinely interested in getting to know her. Their interactions are gentle and build Colie's self-esteem. She finds herself enjoying his company without the pressure or anxiety she had felt in previous romantic encounters. This new relationship is a contrast to her past experiences, showing her that healthy affection is possible. It further strengthens her growing confidence and belief that she is worthy of love and respect, separate from her past reputation.
Confrontation and Resolution
Empowered by her friends, Aunt Mira, and her new sense of self, Colie decides she can no longer let Norman's actions control her. She confronts him, not with anger, but with quiet resolve. She tells him how his words and actions affected her, stating that his judgment does not define her. This confrontation is a moment of personal growth for Colie. It is not about getting an apology, but about taking back her power and refusing to be a victim of his past cruelty. The encounter, though difficult, leaves Colie feeling liberated and stronger than ever.
The End of Summer and New Beginnings
As the summer ends, Colie reflects on the changes she has undergone. She is no longer the insecure, isolated girl who arrived in Colby. She has genuine friends in Morgan and Isabel, a supportive mentor in Aunt Mira, and a new romance with Ben. She has learned to value herself and understand that her worth is not determined by others' opinions or past mistakes. The Last Chance Cafe, once a daunting workplace, has become a symbol of her growth and the community she found. She feels ready to face her old life, but with a new perspective and inner strength.
Returning Home with Confidence
Colie returns home to her mother, Angle, a vastly different person than the one who left. She carries with her the lessons learned, the friendships made, and the self-acceptance cultivated in Colby. She is no longer defined by her past weight or her 'easy' reputation. She understands that she has the power to define herself. While her relationship with her mother remains complex, Colie now has the inner resources to navigate it. She knows she has a support system and a strong sense of self, ensuring that even if she faces challenges, she will 'keep the moon' – holding onto her own light and identity.
Keeping the Moon Characters
Colie
Protagonist
An insecure teenager who transforms into a confident young woman over the summer.
Colie starts the book as an insecure, withdrawn teenager, haunted by her past as an overweight child and a recent reputation for being 'easy.' She struggles with self-worth, constantly seeking external validation and fearing judgment. Her mother's superficiality and her father's absence contribute to her emotional vulnerability. She has never had true friends and often feels like an outcast. She is observant and introspective but lacks the confidence to assert herself.
Relationships: Aunt Mira (mentor and supportive family); Morgan (close friend, co-worker); Isabel (close friend, co-worker); Angle (Mother) (strained, complex, often distant); Norman (past tormentor, source of insecurity); Ben (budding romantic interest, respectful)
Aunt Mira
Supporting
Colie's eccentric, free-spirited artist aunt who offers unconventional wisdom.
Aunt Mira is Colie's bohemian aunt, an artist who lives by her own rules in a vibrant, unconventional home. She is warm, perceptive, and offers Colie unconditional acceptance and gentle guidance. Mira encourages self-expression and authenticity, seeing beauty in imperfections. She acts as a mentor figure, helping Colie to see herself and the world differently, providing a stark contrast to Colie's image-obsessed mother. Her wisdom is often delivered through artistic metaphors and observations about life.
Relationships: Colie (supportive aunt, mentor); Angle (sister, implied differences in lifestyle/values)
Morgan
Supporting
Colie's outspoken, confident, and fiercely loyal co-worker and friend.
Morgan is one of Colie's co-workers and quickly becomes a close friend. She is outgoing, confident, and possesses a sharp wit. Morgan is fiercely loyal to her friends and isn't afraid to speak her mind, often taking the lead in social situations. She provides a strong, protective presence for Colie, helping her navigate the social dynamics of the Last Chance Cafe and offering straightforward advice. Despite her tough exterior, she is deeply caring and supportive.
Relationships: Colie (close friend, co-worker); Isabel (best friend, co-worker)
Isabel
Supporting
Colie's artistic, sensitive, and introspective co-worker and friend.
Isabel is the other co-worker and friend Colie makes at the Last Chance Cafe. She is more reserved and sensitive than Morgan, with an artistic and introspective nature. Isabel offers a gentler, more empathetic perspective, balancing Morgan's more direct approach. She is observant and thoughtful, often providing quiet understanding and emotional support. Her artistic sensibilities align somewhat with Aunt Mira's, allowing her to connect with Colie on a deeper, more reflective level.
Relationships: Colie (close friend, co-worker); Morgan (best friend, co-worker)
Angle
Supporting
Colie's superficial and image-obsessed mother.
Angle is Colie's mother, a successful but self-absorbed infomercial star. She is obsessed with appearances, success, and maintaining a perfect image, often at the expense of genuine emotional connection. Her parenting style is distant and focused on external achievements rather than Colie's emotional well-being. She sends Colie away for the summer, prioritizing her own career and social life. Angle's values stand in stark contrast to Aunt Mira's, highlighting the superficiality Colie is trying to escape.
Relationships: Colie (mother-daughter, strained, distant); Aunt Mira (sister, implied differences)
Norman
Mentioned/Antagonist
The boy who shamed Colie and gave her a bad reputation.
Norman is the boy from Colie's past who spread rumors about her, leading to her reputation as 'easy.' He represents the source of Colie's deep insecurity and shame before her summer in Colby. He is a catalyst for Colie's initial withdrawal and fear of judgment. While not a major physical presence in the story, his past actions weigh heavily on Colie and drive much of her emotional conflict. When he reappears, he forces Colie to confront her past head-on.
Relationships: Colie (past tormentor)
Ben
Supporting
Colie's kind and respectful romantic interest in Colby.
Ben is a local boy in Colby who shows genuine interest in Colie. He is kind, respectful, and patient, offering Colie a healthy and supportive romantic experience. His gentle nature and sincere affection contrast sharply with Colie's previous negative experiences with boys, particularly Norman. Ben's presence helps Colie to further build her self-esteem and understand what a healthy relationship looks like, reinforcing her newfound sense of worth.
Relationships: Colie (budding romantic interest)
Keeping the Moon Themes
Self-Acceptance and Identity
This is the main theme, as Colie defines herself on her own terms, rather than through others' opinions. Initially, she is defined by her past weight and the 'easy' label. Through her relationships with Aunt Mira, Morgan, and Isabel, Colie learns to embrace her unique qualities and understand that her worth is inherent. Working at the Last Chance Cafe, with its diverse customers, also helps her see different parts of humanity and her place within it. Her confrontation with Norman is the ultimate act of self-acceptance, where she reclaims her story.
“You are the only one who can keep the moon.”
The Power of Friendship
Colie's change is largely helped by the real friendships she forms with Morgan and Isabel. Unlike her past experiences, these friendships are built on acceptance, loyalty, and support. Morgan's protective nature and Isabel's empathy give Colie a safe space to be open and grow. They challenge her insecurities, defend her, and celebrate her small victories. Their relationship shows Colie what true friendship looks like, a contrast to the superficial social circles she left behind.
“Friends are like stars. You don't always see them, but you know they're always there.”
Family and Belonging
The novel explores different parts of family, particularly the contrast between Colie's superficial relationship with her mother, Angle, and the unconditional love she finds with Aunt Mira. Mira's unusual household gives Colie a sense of belonging she has never experienced, creating an environment where she feels safe to be herself. This theme shows that 'family' is not just about blood, but about who makes you feel seen, valued, and loved. The Last Chance Cafe also becomes a kind of family, offering a sense of community.
“Some people just have a knack for finding the good in others, even if it's buried real deep.”
Challenging Societal Judgments and Reputation
Colie's journey is heavily influenced by the social judgments and the 'easy' reputation that has followed her. The book criticizes how quickly and unfairly reputations can be formed and how deeply they can affect a young person's self-esteem. Colie's struggle to shed this label and her eventual confrontation with Norman show the importance of challenging these judgments and refusing to let others define one's worth. Her friends and aunt help her see that a reputation is not the same as her true character.
“It's amazing how a reputation can stick to you, even when it's not true.”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
The Last Chance Cafe
A symbolic setting where Colie finds community and growth.
The Last Chance Cafe serves as a crucial setting and a symbolic 'safe haven' for Colie. Its name itself suggests a place for new beginnings. It's where Colie gets her first job, learns responsibility, and most importantly, forms her first genuine friendships with Morgan and Isabel. The diverse and accepting environment of the cafe, filled with quirky regulars and supportive co-workers, directly contrasts with the judgmental social scene Colie left behind, facilitating her personal growth and sense of belonging.
Aunt Mira's Art
Art as a metaphor for embracing imperfection and authenticity.
Aunt Mira's artistic philosophy and her own unconventional art serve as a powerful metaphor for self-acceptance and embracing imperfection. Mira's art is unique, often made from found objects, and unapologetically her own. She teaches Colie to see beauty in what others might discard or deem imperfect, mirroring Colie's own journey of accepting her past and perceived flaws. Her art shows Colie that there's no single 'right' way to be, fostering an environment where Colie can explore her own identity free from judgment.
Colie's Weight Loss
A physical change that paradoxically leads to new insecurities.
Colie's significant weight loss before the summer is a key plot device that highlights the superficiality of external changes versus internal growth. While she shed physical weight, it didn't solve her underlying insecurities; instead, it ushered in new problems, like the 'easy' reputation. This device underscores the theme that true confidence and self-acceptance come from within, not from altering one's appearance to fit societal expectations. It sets up her journey to find genuine self-worth beyond physical attributes.
Keeping the Moon Quotes
“The thing about the past is that it’s usually in the past. You can’t go back and change it, you can only learn from it.”
“It’s funny how sometimes you don’t even know what you’re missing until it’s right there in front of you.”
“Sometimes you just have to take a leap of faith and see what happens.”
“You can't just wish for things to be different. You have to make them different.”
“It’s okay to be scared. Everyone gets scared. But you can’t let it stop you.”
“Being yourself is the most important thing you can ever be.”
“Sometimes the people who are the hardest to love are the ones who need it the most.”
“The moon, it’s always there, even when you can’t see it. Just like some things in life.”
“You don't have to be perfect to be loved. You just have to be real.”
“Friendship isn't about who you've known the longest. It's about who walks into your life, says 'I'm here for you,' and proves it.”
“Growth happens when you're uncomfortable.”
“It’s amazing how much you can change in a summer.”
“You have to forgive yourself for not knowing what you know now.”
“Sometimes the most ordinary places can hold the most extraordinary moments.”
Quiz
10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.
Question 1
Why is Colie sent to spend the summer with her aunt Mira?
- She misbehaved and was sent away as punishment.
- Her mother is touring Europe for her television infomercial career.
- She wanted to get away from her hometown and requested to go.
- Her aunt Mira was ill and needed someone to care for her.
Show answer
B. Her mother is touring Europe for her television infomercial career. Colie's mother, who is a 'queen of the television infomercial,' is touring Europe, leading to Colie being sent to her aunt's.
Question 2
What is the name of the cafe where Colie gets a job?
- The Corner Cafe
- Mira's Diner
- The Last Chance Cafe
- Colby's Kitchen
Show answer
C. The Last Chance Cafe Colie 'lands a job at the Last Chance Cafe' where she meets Morgan and Isabel.
Question 3
What is Colie's initial expectation about making friends in Colby, North Carolina?
- She expects to make many new friends quickly.
- She anticipates finding one or two close friends.
- She doesn't expect to find any friends there.
- She hopes to reconnect with old friends from childhood.
Show answer
C. She doesn't expect to find any friends there. The text states, 'Colie has no friends at home and doesn't expect to find any in Colby, North Carolina,' reflecting her initial pessimism.
Question 4
What were the two primary reasons Colie felt like an outcast before coming to Colby?
- For being too quiet and too smart.
- For being fat and then for being 'easy'.
- For having eccentric parents and always moving.
- For being new to every school and having a strange name.
Show answer
B. For being fat and then for being 'easy'. The description states Colie was 'always an outcast -- first for being fat and then for being 'easy''
Question 5
Who are the two fellow waitresses Colie meets at the Last Chance Cafe?
- Sarah and Dessen
- Morgan and Isabel
- Mira and Colie
- Colby and Carolina
Show answer
B. Morgan and Isabel The text explicitly mentions, 'But then she lands a job at the Last Chance Cafe and meets fellow waitresses Morgan and Isabel.'
Question 6
How do Morgan and Isabel's relationship with each other affect Colie?
- Their constant fighting makes Colie feel more isolated.
- Their loving yet volatile relationship helps Colie to see herself in a new way.
- Colie finds their friendship confusing and struggles to understand it.
- They ignore Colie, focusing only on each other.
Show answer
B. Their loving yet volatile relationship helps Colie to see herself in a new way. The description states, 'Wacky yet wise, Morgan and Isabel help Colie see herself in a new way and realize the potential that has been there all along,' specifically referring to their 'loving yet volatile relationship.'
Question 7
What is the primary internal change Colie experiences by the end of her summer in Colby?
- She learns to cook and becomes a chef.
- She accepts her past as an outcast and embraces her future.
- She sees herself in a new way and realizes her own potential.
- She decides to move permanently to Colby with her aunt.
Show answer
C. She sees herself in a new way and realizes her own potential. The summary concludes, 'Morgan and Isabel help Colie see herself in a new way and realize the potential that has been there all along,' indicating a significant shift in her self-perception.
Question 8
How is Colie's aunt Mira described?
- Strict and traditional
- Quiet and reserved
- Eccentric
- Overly critical
Show answer
C. Eccentric The text explicitly states Colie is 'sent to spend the summer with her eccentric aunt Mira.'
Question 9
Which of the following best describes the overall tone of Colie's initial feelings about her summer in Colby?
- Excited and hopeful
- Apprehensive and pessimistic
- Indifferent and bored
- Angry and defiant
Show answer
B. Apprehensive and pessimistic Colie 'expects the worst' and 'doesn't expect to find any friends,' indicating an apprehensive and pessimistic outlook at the start of her summer.
Question 10
The description mentions Colie's mother is the 'queen of the television infomercial.' What does this detail imply about Colie's home life or background?
- Colie comes from a very traditional and private family.
- Colie likely experiences a high-profile, possibly superficial, and often absent parental environment.
- Colie's mother's career means they are constantly moving to different cities.
- Colie is pressured to follow in her mother's footsteps in entertainment.
Show answer
B. Colie likely experiences a high-profile, possibly superficial, and often absent parental environment. A 'queen of the television infomercial' suggests a life in the public eye, potentially involving travel (like touring Europe) and a focus on image, which could lead to a less stable or emotionally present home life for Colie.
Keeping the Moon FAQ
What is the basic premise of 'Keeping the Moon' and why is Colie sent to Colby?
Colie expects a terrible summer when she's sent to Colby, North Carolina, to live with her eccentric Aunt Mira. Her mother, a famous infomercial star, is touring Europe, leaving Colie behind. This summer away from her usual environment is meant to be a break from the challenges Colie faces at home, particularly regarding her self-esteem and social struggles.
Who are Morgan and Isabel, and what role do they play in Colie's journey?
Morgan and Isabel are waitresses at the Last Chance Cafe, where Colie gets a job. They are best friends with a complex, often volatile, but deeply loving relationship. They become Colie's first true friends, helping her to see herself differently, gain confidence, and understand the potential she possesses beyond her past labels.
What are the main struggles Colie faces before coming to Colby?
Before Colby, Colie struggled significantly with her self-image and social acceptance. She was an outcast, first for being overweight, and then later for being labeled as 'easy' by her peers. These past experiences left her with deep insecurities and a lack of friends, making her wary and pessimistic about new social situations.
What is the significance of the Last Chance Cafe in the story?
The Last Chance Cafe serves as a pivotal setting where Colie finds a sense of belonging and purpose. It's where she meets Morgan and Isabel, learns to work, and begins to interact with people who don't know her past. The cafe symbolizes a new beginning and a place where characters, including Colie, are given a 'last chance' to redefine themselves.
How does Aunt Mira contribute to Colie's transformation?
Aunt Mira, Colie's eccentric aunt, provides a stable and unconventional home environment that allows Colie to relax and be herself. Her unique perspective, artistic endeavors, and unwavering acceptance create a safe space for Colie to explore her identity. Mira's wisdom, though often delivered indirectly, helps Colie to challenge her preconceived notions about herself and others.
Are there any subtle clues about Colie's mother's past or personal life beyond her infomercial career?
While the book focuses on Colie, there are hints that her mother's glamorous infomercial persona masks a more complex personal life. Her frequent tours and the decision to send Colie away suggest a prioritization of her career, and possibly a difficulty in connecting deeply with Colie. This backstory subtly underscores Colie's feelings of abandonment and self-doubt.
What is the implied history behind Morgan and Isabel's volatile but loving friendship?
Morgan and Isabel's relationship is shown to be deep-rooted and long-standing, implying years of shared experiences and mutual support. Their volatility suggests a comfort level where they can be completely honest, even confrontational, with each other, knowing their bond will endure. Their dynamic serves as an example of a complex, authentic friendship for Colie.
Does the novel hint at the future of Colie's relationship with her mother after the summer?
The novel primarily focuses on Colie's present transformation, but it implies a potential shift in her relationship with her mother. Colie's newfound confidence and self-awareness suggest she will approach her mother from a stronger, more independent position. While a full resolution isn't explicitly shown, the groundwork for a healthier, more honest dynamic is laid.
How does Colie's past experience of being labeled 'easy' impact her psychological state and interactions?
Being labeled 'easy' deeply damaged Colie's self-worth and led to extreme social anxiety and distrust. She became highly guarded, fearing judgment and misinterpretation, which made her hesitant to form new relationships or express herself. This past trauma caused her to internalize negative beliefs about her value and attractiveness.
What psychological journey does Colie undergo to overcome her body image issues?
Colie's journey to overcome body image issues involves recognizing that her value isn't tied to her weight. Through the acceptance of Aunt Mira, the non-judgmental friendships with Morgan and Isabel, and finding confidence in her abilities at the cafe, she gradually shifts her focus from external appearance to internal strength and self-worth. This process is gradual, built on small victories and positive affirmations.
How does the dynamic between Morgan and Isabel psychologically affect Colie?
Morgan and Isabel's raw and honest friendship teaches Colie about the complexities and resilience of human connection. Witnessing their arguments and reconciliations helps Colie understand that true friendship isn't always smooth but involves deep loyalty and acceptance. This exposure challenges Colie's perception of perfect friendships and encourages her to embrace vulnerability.
In what ways does Colie's new job at the Last Chance Cafe contribute to her psychological well-being?
The job at the Last Chance Cafe provides Colie with a sense of purpose, responsibility, and competence. Mastering new skills and receiving positive feedback from customers and colleagues boosts her self-esteem. It also forces her into social interactions in a low-stakes environment, gradually building her confidence in communicating and connecting with others.
Is the ending of 'Keeping the Moon' meant to be a definitive resolution or an open beginning for Colie?
The ending is more of an open beginning, signifying Colie's profound personal growth and readiness for future challenges, rather than a definitive resolution of all her problems. While she has gained immense self-awareness and confidence, the narrative implies that her journey of self-discovery and navigating relationships will continue, but now with better tools and a stronger sense of self.
How does the title 'Keeping the Moon' relate to Colie's personal growth and the book's themes?
The title 'Keeping the Moon' can be interpreted as Colie learning to hold onto her dreams, individuality, and inner light, much like keeping something as beautiful and constant as the moon. It symbolizes her journey of finding and protecting her true self, rather than letting external opinions or past experiences dim her spirit. It suggests maintaining hope and wonder.
Could Aunt Mira be seen as a symbol of unconventional wisdom and freedom, or just an eccentric character?
Aunt Mira is certainly an eccentric character, but she also strongly symbolizes unconventional wisdom and freedom. Her lifestyle, artistic pursuits, and non-judgmental nature offer Colie an alternative perspective to the rigid social norms she's accustomed to. She represents the idea that there are many valid ways to live and find happiness, encouraging Colie to embrace her own unique path.
What is the central message or moral the author intends to convey through Colie's story?
The central message is about self-acceptance, finding your voice, and the transformative power of genuine friendship and a supportive environment. The author conveys that external labels do not define a person's worth, and true happiness comes from within, by embracing one's authentic self despite past hurts and societal pressures. It emphasizes the importance of looking past superficial judgments.
How does the small-town setting of Colby contribute to the narrative's themes?
The small-town setting of Colby, North Carolina, provides a stark contrast to Colie's previous life, allowing her to escape the judgments and expectations of her old environment. It fosters a sense of community and intimacy, making it easier for Colie to form authentic connections and experience life without the constant pressure of her mother's celebrity status or her past social stigmas. This simpler setting facilitates her introspection and growth.
About the author
Sarah Dessen is an American author known for her young adult fiction that often explores themes of love, friendship, and personal growth. Some of her notable works include Just Listen, The Truth About Forever, Along for the Ride, This Lullaby, Lock and Key, and Keeping the Moon. Dessen's writing has garnered a dedicated readership and has been recognized for its relatable characters and emotional depth.
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