Anne Emery (1) (1907–1987)

Set in the 1950's, this teen novel by Anne Emery focuses on the pros and cons of going steady. The central character Sally Burnaby is the oldest child of a large, active, traditional family. She is thrilled when she becomes pinned to her boyfriend Scotty shortly before graduation. I found Scotty to be an irritating and controlling person. Scotty gives Sally constant advice. He suggests that she hone her tennis and diving skills. He suggests books for her summer reading. These "recommendations" affect Sally's self-esteem; she often feels inadequate and depressed after their dates.When Sally is invited to Scotty's home, he treats her like any other guest, rather than a girlfriend. Despite their relationship flaws, they discuss forgoing college and plan to be married in the autumn. I found the description of Sally's summer job (clerical work at a local university) to be interesting. Sally regards the work (stuffing envelopes and typing registration cards) to be dull and tedious. She often makes errors and is reprimanded by the brusque and efficient office manager Carol Colbert. As the summer progresses, Sally reevaluates her goals and evolves into a stronger person. The themes of this 1950's youth novel are relevant today.… (mais)

Dinny Gordon travels through her junior year of high school with a few tribulations. She is unjustly fired from her job at Harlech's Variety Store for reporting a shoplifting incident. Curt Beauregard stops speaking to her when she accepts a date with Tom--but she reminds Curt that they aren't going steady and they are both are free to date others. Then she copes with prejudice against her friends, Mike and Debby who are Jewish. Dinny grows deeper into her archaeology interest and counsels a troubled adolescent.

This is my favorite Dinny Gordon novel!… (mais)