Don't Count on Homecoming Queen (Raise the Flag)

I am constantly browsing the bookshelfs at my local Christian bookstore for good books for teenagers. I work with the youth group at my church and am literally shocked by the garbage they read! I want to be able to provide them with alternatives. This series of books by Nancy Rue is wonderful! It's the first really well-written series that does not focus on romance exclusively... it takes hard-hitting issues from teenagers' real lives and weaves a wonderful story. This book deals with the traumatic topic of sexual abuse and may not be for younger teens. Parents may want to read the books themselves, first, and then dicuss them with their children. I couldn't put this book down and I ended up going out to buy the whole series (six in all!)

Let's be up front here. This book deals honestly and somewhat explicitly with the sexual abuse of a female student by a male teacher. Be aware of this before you hand it to your twelve year old daughter, as I almost did before I read it. That said, I have to tell you that it is an incredibly well written, well researched story with an engaging plot that you will not want to put down. These girls are not portrayed as Christian superheroes who have all the answers. They still need and depend upon their parents and other adults to guide them through a very difficult situation. I liked that.

When I first got this book I thought it would be boring. But this book makes you feel like your in the story. I remember that once I started reading it I couldn't stop reading it. She is an excellent writer and I can't wait to get another one of her books.

This is a GREAT book! Nancy Rue really makes you feel for her characters and what they're going through. I want to read all of her books!