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Power play
First published 1984 · 150 pages
A sun-drenched, soapy dive into the ruthless social politics and sisterly rivalries of a 1980s California high school.
What it feels like
Reading this book feels like opening a time capsule to a sun-drenched, pastel-colored vision of 1980s California, where the highest possible stakes revolve around cafeteria seating and sorority bids. The narrative moves at a brisk, gossipy clip, pulling the reader into a world of ruthless social hierarchies and sharply drawn sisterly rivalries. Beneath the soapy melodrama and the endless descriptions of perfect blonde hair and stylish outfits, there is a surprisingly earnest exploration of body image, bullying, and the hidden loneliness of the popular crowd. It is a deliciously addictive, nostalgic experience that delights readers who crave the guilty pleasure of high school drama, offering the comforting satisfaction of watching empathy ultimately triumph over superficial cruelty.
- Mood
- sun-drenched
- nostalgic
- cliquey
- soapy
- Tone
- gossipy
- melodramatic
- earnest
- judgmental
- Pace
- brisk
- Themes
- social hierarchy · sisterly rivalry · body image and self-worth · the price of popularity · hidden vulnerabilities
- The writing
- Breezy, accessible, and heavily reliant on dramatic dialogue and vivid descriptions of 1980s teen fashion.
- The arc
- Begins with ruthless social maneuvering and culminates in a satisfying, if neatly packaged, triumph of empathy over elitism.
- Who it's for
- Fans of vintage teen soap operas who crave high-stakes cafeteria politics and the nostalgic gloss of Southern California adolescence.
Content notes
- fatphobia
- body shaming
- bullying
- shoplifting
- parental neglect
About the book
Chubby Robin Wilson wants to join SVH sorority Pi Beta Alpha. Liz nominates Robin for the club and Jessica is furious. Jessica and her conniving friends do everything they can to keep Robin out and Li does her best to make sure Robin is accepted by the club. Also, Lila Fowler, one of the wealthiest girls in school and also in town, is revealed to have been shoplifting to get her absentee father's attention.
Description from Open Library.
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