Hard Love

        Hard Love by Ellen Wittlinger is a book about a young love that is not easy. Marisol is a lesbian that recently just "came out of the closet". There love is very difficult because John is very shocked once Marisol tells him she likes him. They try to maintain a good friendship by writing zines to each other.
       This book was cool because this is how a lot of middle/high school teenagers feel. They don't really quite know who they are yet, but they are conflicted with the pain and joy of liking/loving someone. It's a hard time because you have so much to deal with. School work, fitting in, friends, etc. But having a crush/boyfriend is something that everyone goes through.
        Love and crushes are very fragile when you're a teenager. You're naieve, vulnerable, and sensitive. Sometimes, you can't even focus on your work because you're thinking about that person. It interferes with work, but you feel like you can't control it. You want it to go away, but no matter what you do, it doesn't.
        This book is very helpful during these times. It lets you know that it's not going to be easy. It's not what you want to hear, but it's true. Everyone wants a perfect relationship, but that's only in fairy tales. And this book helps you get through it.