Summary

Through old letters, Nelson reveals the history of the Holder family as early twentieth century Swedish immigrants, coming to America to work in factories. Despite warnings from her father about Jane's hatred towards her, Nelson's mother takes Jane's belonging with her home, sending copies of Jane's diaries to Nelson, written from 1960 to 1961, when Jane was 13. Jane's diary entries show a teenager full of her doubts and angst, aimed at both her friends and family. She is concerned with her social status after becoming a cheerleader (October 21, 1960), but is also averse to being part of the pack. Jane's relationship with her family is tumultuous, as she initially has intense hatred for her elder sister, Barb, with whom she shares a room and who is jealous of for her social ease, but whom she also loves and admires, hoping for a better relationship...