This is a heartwarming story about Leigh McKenzie - a twelve year old city girl whose parents have decided that she will spend her summer with her Grandma Kate on the island that her Grandma calls home. However, Leigh had her summer all planned. She was going to spend it with her girlfriends, not on some old island with her Grandma!
You see, it's not that Leigh doesn't love her Grandma Kate; it's just that well...for one thing Grandma Kate doesn't even have a T.V. or a computer. In fact Leigh is amazed that she even has a telephone. As Leigh puts it, "Grandma McKenzie is set in her ways, stubborn, and way into nature." For a city girl nature means trees growing in planters along bustling streets. Leigh just doesn't think the island will be any fun at all.
Leigh's only hope is spending her days on the island with Clara. You see, Clara has lived on the island her entire life. Together they could swim, search the beach for sea shells, and go horseback riding - all of the fun things that young girls love to do. Leigh soon finds out that Grandma Kate has other plans; plans that include daily chores, and learning about native plants of all things!
Yet, the island has a way of captivating even the most reluctant of visitors. Some think it is the fresh ocean breezes, or the beautiful sunsets that charm those who come to the island. But, maybe just maybe, Grandma Kate's love of the island and all of its natural beauty will make this a summer to remember for Leigh McKenzie - City Girl...