Planet Pregnancy

High, Linda Oatman. Planet Pregnancy.
Front Street Books (see Boyds Mills), 2008, $16.95, 978-1-59078-584-3.

This is a free verse narrative about handling an unplanned pregnancy while single and still in high school. Sahara knows she won’t marry the boy, “he doesn’t work, and he’s a jerk. He’d be a bad dad, just like the dad I never had.” She first hides out in oversize clothes, then claims date rape, thinking that’s easier on her mom (focused on future success and college) and religious best friend.
It’s touching, funny in places, and students already are asking for another book by the author.
This is a must for every high school. You’ll probably need at least two copies. SG