About This Book
Reach for this book when your older teenager is navigating the complex emotional terrain of a major family transition, especially one involving a blended family or a romantic relationship that feels misunderstood by adults. Peter and Leslie are high school seniors in a committed relationship whose lives are turned upside down when their parents decide to marry, legally making them step-siblings. The story explores the resulting shame, identity confusion, and social embarrassment with Norma Klein's signature honesty. It is a sophisticated look at the collision between adolescent autonomy and adult decisions. Parents might choose this book to open a dialogue about boundaries, the legal versus emotional definitions of family, and the way teenagers often feel like their lives are being managed without their consent. Note that the book deals with mature themes including teen sexuality and is best suited for older teens in the 16-18 age bracket.
