About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when they notice their teenager is beginning to chafe under protective boundaries or is struggling to voice their own opinions in relationships. It is a nuanced look at the transition from being a compliant child to a self-actualized young adult, specifically for teens who find it easier to play helpless than to stand their ground. Set in the early 1970s, the story follows seventeen-year-old Mandy as she navigates her father's overprotectiveness and her boyfriend's expectations during a time of massive social change. This historical context provides a safe distance for parents and teens to discuss modern parallels of independence, peer influence, and the importance of finding one's own breath. It is a realistic, thoughtful exploration of the courage required to grow up.
