Before her mother died, Shelby promised three things: listen to her father, love as much as possible, and live without restraint. Those Promises become hard to keep when Shelby’s dad joins the committee for the Princess Ball, where girls must take a vow of purity – no “bad behaviour”, no breaking the rules, and definitely no sex.
Torn between Promises, Shelby makes a decision – to exploit a loophole and lose her virginity before taking the vow. But somewhere between failed hookup attempts and helping her dad plan the ball, Shelby begins to understand what her mother really meant, what her father really needs, and who really has the right to her purity.
Torn between Promises, Shelby makes a decision – to exploit a loophole and lose her virginity before taking the vow. But somewhere between failed hookup attempts and helping her dad plan the ball, Shelby begins to understand what her mother really meant, what her father really needs, and who really has the right to her purity.
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Reviews
"Shelby's biting, irreverent first-person narration finely blends the humor and pain of her situation...A purely satisfying look at mourning and sexuality -- and even their connection."
A hilarious and heartfelt story about what happens when a teenage girl actually tries to honor all the promises that adults demand from her while staying true to herself. I loved this book.
Reading Jackson Pearce's Purity feels like talking on the phone with a lively and honest best friend -- who is telling it like it is. Shelby reminds us all to be first and foremost true to ourselves. This book is a must-read for anyone thinking about making promises to themselves or others.
Smart and thought provoking.
"A startlingly authentic picture of a girl in transition on multiple levels...teens will appreciate this thoughtful look at the implications - or lack thereof - of doing the deed."
Many teens will find Shelby's emotional journey worth following...a satisfying read.