The most important social issue discussed in the book, teen-age sex, is handled responsibly by Goldman.

When Sarah decides to sleep with Dane, after weighing the pros and cons, she and her friend Angie go together to the Women's Health Collective to get a diaphragm. This scene, which includes a description of a pelvic exam, could serve to inform young readers, showing them that serious choices are required of those who wish to become sexually active.

The actual lovemaking scene between Sarah and Dane, which is preceded by Sarah's comical struggle to insert the diaphragm, is described realistically but without titillation. In fact, Sarah feels little except pain during intercourse, showing that sex can be more trial than bliss for someone not ready for it, especially if the partner is only interested in his or her satisfaction. Sarah even recognizes that it was not until she...