The Opposite of Innocent

Lily’s thrilled when her parents’ friend Luke comes back to town. She was 12 when he left, still a kid; at 14, she has breasts, wears makeup, and her braces are off—and Luke, who is 29, makes it clear that he notices the changes. Sones (Saving Red) tells the story in her characteristic free verse, which effectively reveals Lily’s feelings and moves the story along. Luke is staying with Lily’s family, so it’s easy for him to help her parents by driving Lily and her sister around town. After a lot of flirting, the two declare their interest, which leads to romantic kissing that makes Lily feel powerful and adored. Soon, though, Luke begins pressuring Lily to do more—things she’s not comfortable with. The ending sidesteps key questions about adult reactions and how Lily will shape her narrative moving forward, but authentic details and situations show both the appeal and the inherent power imbalance of being a teenager involved with an adult. Ages 14–up. Agent: Steven Malk, Writers House. [em](Sept.) [/em]