SuitabookSecond best
Helen Cavanagh
- Reading
- You could read it together and pause after the break-up to talk about what Shelly knows, what she is unsure about, and what choices remain open to her.
- Themes
- Self-image and romantic attention: Shelly thinks she is plain and second best, while Ryan thinks she is special and wants to go steady with her. The plot places Shelly's self-image alongside the attention she receives, but does not establish what the story ultimately says about her worth.
- Secrecy and conflict: Shelly tries to keep her date with Nick secret; Ryan finds out and angrily breaks up with her. The summary presents secrecy and an angry response as part of the conflict, without showing whether either is endorsed or criticised.
- Worth knowing
- The story includes romantic interest, secrecy around a date and an angry break-up; consider whether that kind of relationship conflict suits your reader at present.