This is a book that will have some appeal to reluctant readers who are sick of reading about perfect goody too shoes girls who do everything right. Ash has a looser boyfriend, no college ambitions and doesn't come from a well off family or go to a good school. This is unlike Anderson's other heavier books and instead reads more like a generic fun fluffy teen chic lit prom book (but with a non-perfect heroine). Because I'm a fan of that type of novel I loved this book and tore through it quickly with a smile on my face at the happy ending.
Appropriateness: There is a lot of adult behavior in this book. Ash is sexually active with her boyfriend (although there are no sex scenes) and does not think twice about getting drunk. Ash is the type of kid that you hope your daughter doesn't end up like, barely graduating high school and attached to a looser boyfriend although she does have a good heart. I'd recommend this book to readers 13+ and use it as an excuse to talk to your kids about how the choices you make in your teens have long term consequences.
