Fifteen

High school sophomore Jane Purdy has her first experiences with dating when she agrees to go out with upperclassman Stan Crandall. First written and published in the 1950s, FIFTEEN reflects a more innocent time in American history--particularly in terms of sex roles and the ins-and-outs of high school dating. For example, Stan and Jane go on several dates (their first takes place at the local soda shop) and agree to go steady (after Stan gives Jane his ID bracelet) before they even hold hands or share their first kiss. This novel is illustrated with occasional B&W drawings depicting Jane in below-the-knee-length dresses, Stan in sweaters and pressed slacks, and Jane's mother (a la a typical 1950s homemaker) wearing dresses, pearls, and heels as she and her husband greet Jane's gentleman caller. Still popular today, FIFTEEN presents a sweet and, in a way, idealized portrait of the teenage dating scene. Copyright (C) Muze Inc. 2005. For personal use only. All rights reserved.