[1] As part one begins, the reader meets the story's protagonist, a quiet and rather plain-looking Maggie Tobin, who is walking through the school auditorium with her sophisticated, gorgeous best friend, Liz Carstensen.

During the assembly, Maggie points out Sean Collins, the handsome young gentleman whom Liz is currently seeing.

While at the Red Pub Inn, Liz writes Sean a letter on the back of a place setting.

The quick work of Maggie saves Liz from catastrophe as Sean is alerted about Rod and rushes over to the dance.

A deeply saddened Liz is forced to miss prom as she travels with Maggie and Rod to a doctor who can perform her abortion.

Despite this positive sign, as the girls arrive at Liz’s house, Maggie realizes that her friend is hemorrhaging.

On this note, Maggie finds Dennis, wishes him luck, and gives him a goodbye kiss.

The novel is mentioned in the book My Posse Don't Do Homework[2] and the film Dangerous Minds starring Michelle Pfeiffer.