Debbie tells the story in the first person, even addressing the reader as "you." This lively, chatty style makes the reader quickly identify with the main character and empathize with Debbie's embarrassment, confusion, and worries. One of Asher's trademarks, her device of adding just the right touch of humor to a serious story, is also used to great effect. In this novel, tears and laughter balance one another, so the tone of the story is upbeat and enjoyable rather than depressing.