Based on the 1952 play Time Out for Ginger by Ronald Alexander,[2] the film stars Patty Duke in the title role.

With her bobbed haircut, tomboyish behavior, and passion for track running, she distances herself from her fellow female classmates.

She gives him advice on how to run faster, and although he is initially reluctant to be taught a man's sport from a girl, he soon notices how gifted she is and is happy to listen to her.

Billie is unaffected by the gossips and criticism, though she feels sad over how much trouble she is causing her father, Howard.

Howard is not aware of Jean's situation and encourages her to date other men, setting her up with Matt Bullitt.