Appearances are Everything

Right or wrong, the idea that outward appearance matters more than anything else is the most pervasive theme of Almost Famous. The plot centers on four young teenage girls who are entering their last year of middle school and three of them have been shaped by the wealthy, privileged life they have led. Emily, who has recently moved to Los Angeles from Iowa, has a somewhat different mindset, but she is quickly being assimilated into the materialistic world of her new friends who comprise the Inner Circle.

The author makes a point to include the name of the designer in every mention of a piece of clothing, accessory or even furniture throughout the book. This is done to ensure young readers that the characters wear only the newest, most hip, most exclusive and most expensive attire at all times, and that only the best of everything...