I really enjoyed reading this book. Reading about Deanna as she worked to realize what had actually happened in the past. That the boy she'd had sex with was using her (the word rape is never used but it's a great example of statutory rape) and had preyed on her desire for love. Deanna's family is in shambles, her brother is a teenage father living in the basement with his child and her father is emotionally abusive to everyone in the house. Deanna grows throughout the book and is better off than she started, however things do not end perfectly. I was interested throughout the story and felt the ending resolved well.
Appropriateness: There is alcohol and drugs and sex in this book (the sex is described distantly and never erotic) although it's never viewed as a positive thing. This would be a great book to read with your young teen to discuss statutory rape. Deanna has a horrific life, yet goes on day by day and works to make things better for herself. I recommend this book to readers 12+
