Book details
Bad Tickets
Description
She's left her good Catholic girl ways behind . . . mostly. It is 1967, the Summer of Love, and Mary Margaret Hallinan has that itchy, squirmy feeling that there must be something more out there for her. Her new best friend, the glamorous Jane, says that boys are the ticket to a spectacular future. Her ex-best friend Elizabeth is sure she's going to hell. Say yes! commands Jane, and Mary Margaret has tried to follow her c'mon-it'll-be-fabulous friend into the psychedelic swirl. But can she fit any of her old self to this new life she's trying on?This is it, this is gonna be the summer. Mary Margaret Hallinan, former good Catholic girl, is clutching her ticket.Friendship, faith, family, feminism, and1960s counterculture all contribute to the heartfelt, thoughtful pages of Bad Tickets.From the Hardcover edition.
Age
12-18
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
244 pages
Why to read
- Engaging Coming-of-Age Story: 'Bad Tickets' offers readers a compelling coming-of-age tale set in the 1960s, a period of significant cultural and social change. The story follows the young protagonist, Mary Margaret Hallinan, as she navigates the challenges of adolescence, making it a relatable and insightful read for those interested in personal growth and development.
- Historical Context: Kathleen O'Dell skillfully weaves historical events and the atmosphere of the 1960s into the narrative, providing a rich backdrop for the story. Readers interested in this era will appreciate the authentic depiction of the time period, including the music, fashion, and social movements that defined the decade.
- Complex Characters: The book features a cast of well-developed characters, each with their own unique personalities and struggles. The complexity of the characters allows for a deeper understanding of human nature and the different paths people take in life, making 'Bad Tickets' a thought-provoking read.
- Themes of Self-Discovery and Independence: 'Bad Tickets' explores themes of self-discovery, independence, and the search for one's place in the world. As Mary Margaret seeks to define her own identity separate from her family and societal expectations, readers are invited to reflect on their own journeys and the choices that shape who they become.