Screwed by Laurie Plissner

A short blurb from the author’s website:  Flattered by the attentions of Nick, the cutest guy in school, seventeen-year-old Grace Warren, captain of the math team, lets down her guard and gets pregnant the night she loses her virginity. Hopeful that Nick will drop to one knee and propose when she breaks the baby news to him, Grace is heartbroken—Nick wants nothing to do with her. Her best friend, Jennifer, thinks she should get an abortion, but Grace is certain that her morally upright parents will insist that she keep the baby. After she comes clean to her folks, they surprise her by insisting that she terminate the pregnancy to avoid humiliating the family. But when she sees the fetus on the ultrasound, she decides she can't get rid of it. Deciding to save the tiny life growing inside of her, Grace must face the consequences of being that girl--the good girl who got knocked up.

My Take

I loved this book!  I really liked how there were little vignettes on the more major characters.  It really gave you a good glimpse into everyone and their reasoning for doing the things they do.  The characters were wonderful; flawed, rich, full of life.  I loved Grace for standing by her convictions, come what may.  She was strong and vibrant.  Great writing that sped along keeping me turning the pages.  I’m giving this one 5 expectant kisses!

 

The Best and Hardest Thing by Pat Brisson

This is a novel in verse.  Ms. Brisson's website has information regarding the the types of poetry used in this book and a brief bite about the book: Fifteen-year-old Molly Biden is tired of being thought of as the good girl. She gives herself a make-over in order to capture Grady Dillon’s attention. But exactly how far is she willing to go to get the guy?

My Take

This book was wonderful and touching.  Molly decides she's tired of being known as only the good girl.  She sets out to change all that.  And boy, does she ever!  This book has humor, sadness and even hopefulness thrown in.  One of the things I really loved is that it's not all free verse.  When a different form of poetry is used, it's listed.  I particularly loved the poem Molly wrote to her virginity. 
Once upon a time, I used to write a great deal of poetry and wouldn't mind getting back to some of it.  I'm actually considering re-working one of my ms to possibly be a novel in verse.  It might be fun. :)  I'm giving The Best and Hardest Thing 4 gentle kisses!