Reviewed by SETH BLACK

Life is short, and you can't stay a child forever.

This statement is the whole premise of the novel, "Farewell Summer," the much-anticipated sequel to Ray Bradbury's unclaimed success, "Dandelion Wine."

The novel, which can be read from two vantage points, follows two people's journeys to hold onto life.

Douglas Spaulding, a young child, realizes that this summer is possibly his last to have fun. Next summer he will be given responsibilities.

Since Douglas is not looking forward to less freedom, in the beginning of summer he and his friends make a pact to end the natural process of "growing up" and stay children forever.

On the flip side, the novel could be read from the vantage point of Calvin Quartermain, an elderly man who watches his best friend pass away in the early pages of the novel.

Quartermain was so struck by this, that he wages war against the youngsters -- including Douglas -- who were there at the time of his friend's death. Quartermain is determined to win back the one thing they have that he doesn't own himself: The ability to stay young.

"Farewell Summer" is an enthralling novel that takes the reader through many highs and lows. With its intricate metaphors and heart-dropping quotes, readers could find themselves laughing and crying in the same paragraph.

Bradbury's latest masterpiece takes a lot of digesting to accept the truths that are hidden in the text. "Farewell Summer" helps to redefine what it means to stay young.