For keeps

This is the first in a set of three Sarah Dessen books that I purchased when Borders was beginning to close its doors for good.

First, Colie was an outcast because she was fat.  Then, after her mother became a renowned fitness guru and Colie became subsequently thin, she was an outcast because the local Mean Girl spread rumors that she was a slut.  When her mother has to go on a European tour, Colie has to stay with an eccentric aunt she barely knows in a small town that, at first, is less than inviting.  In spite of a rough start, she accepts a waitressing job at the local bar and grill, where she meets the cranky but gorgeous Isabel, the patient and pleasant Morgan, and Norman, who also helps out her aunt Mira.  As Colie gets to know Isabel and Morgan and the intimate friendship they share, Morgan and eventually Isabel in turn give Colie tips on boys, bullies, self-respect, and the finer points of make-up.  Additionally, Colie learns that while teasing and name-calling doesn't stop as one grows up, an adjustment in attitude can make all the difference in the world.  And that having a support system of friends helps, too.


Dessen does a pretty great job of telling a story about a lonely, confused, and initially angry teen girl who doesn't know where to turn.  Still sensitive about looks and body types, Colie is nearly scared of her own shadow and untrustworthy of most people, especially boys.  But she lightens up pretty quickly, before the reader can be frustrated with her, and does so naturally: first Morgan offers her guidance, then she learns to appreciate Mira's weirdness, and finally Isabel warms up to her - a little, at least.  Most of the charm of this story comes from how its cast of characters meld together to create an offbeat yet comforting atmosphere.  Subplots such as Morgan's suspiciously absent fiance and Norman's unapproving father are tied to the overall message of the story about finding strength in who you are - even if that means breaking away from others.  Colie's own storyline about Mean Girl Caroline is not quite as well-developed as it could be, but it serves its purpose.  


This is basically a coming-of-age story, and while it seems rather standard - in structure at least - the details and characters are what puts Moon above the rest.  The growing relationship between Norman and Colie largely takes place in the last act, but for this story it feels right; I'm glad Dessen took the time to give it some attention after the bulk of Colie's character growth.  Rating: 4 pairs of sunglasses out of 5.