The opposite of Chocolate

There are two themes in this book: fire setting and teen age pregnancy. The fire comes to symbolize a lot more than the element of fire but rather freedom, excitement, escapism and coming of age.

Sapphire is the young lady who finds herself pregnant. She is 14. At the time of the conception, she thought she was in love with Jay. As time goes on, she realizes that he never loved her and she never loved him.

The real issue continues to be her feelings about the baby. She is bombarded on all sides about what is best for her and what is best for the baby.

Sapphire is allowed a few childish moments after all, she is only 14. In the end, in her mind, she does what is best for her and the baby, ignoring the advice of others. It is not until the last page of the book that you see and understand her decision.

No matter how one feels about the issue of teenage pregnancy, this book presents all sides equally. Remembering also that this is a book and not reality, I thought the story was quite good and pretty well written.

Any book is well written to be when I am still thinking about it after having read it all the way through. This one was thought provoking.

catherine