Almost nine years ago, I signed a contract granting permission for a film adaptation to be made of one of my most beloved books. I tried to temper my enthusiasm after being warned by industry professionals that most independent movies crash and burn before ever getting released. So I felt especially relieved, five years ago, when the movie finally began filming. Spending a few weeks on set was one of the highlights of my life, but the work wasn’t completed as it should have been. A delay in filming two very crucial scenes meant that we didn’t have our festival debut until two years after. I don’t think anyone expected our retail release to take so long, but after three more grueling years, here we are: The Something Like Summer movie is finally available for rent or purchase! At the moment you can stream it from select platform in the US only. Click here to find out where. I’m told that international options will follow, and if we’re lucky, a physical release too, but considering the timeline above, I won’t attempt to estimate when. For now, I hope the existing options will allow many if not most of you to watch this long delayed gem. Before you do, I ask that you consider the following:

Books have an unfair advantage over their film adaptations. When you read one of my books, I might be directing the story, but I’m also inviting you to participate in the telling. Beyond a few basic details, it’s your job to imagine the characters, the world they inhabit, how they sound, etc. Reading a book is a creative collaboration with the author. I believe that’s why so many readers feel frustrated and disappointed after watching a film adaptation. Then there are the inevitable plot changes, many of which occur due to practical concerns. Those diversions from the source material can be challenging, but they can also make the movie more enjoyable. If you want to reexperience exactly how the book made you feel, it’s always there, waiting to be reread. If you want to see a similar but unique version of the story presented in an entirely new medium that utilizes cute boys and catchy music… well, that sounds pretty damn fun to me! So please go into this one with an open mind and heart. Revel in listening to Ben sing and all the other things a book can’t do that a movie can. Allow the film to complement the books, rather than expecting it to faithfully recreate the same experience, and you’ll be more likely to enjoy yourself. There’s room enough for both, right? And hey, the more success the movie has, the more likely it’ll be that we can do this again. I’m dreaming of Netflix series. Wouldn’t that be sweet?! So if you could please help spread the word to friends and family, I will continue to be deeply indebted to you, because there never would have been a movie without your support. Thank you!