Just past the middle of Part Two, and the differences in how Ellie and Homa are being shaped over time feel so much more pronounced.

Ellie seems increasingly pulled toward ideas of status, appearance, and what “success” is supposed to look like in her world. Even the way relationships are framed around her feels telling, like when her mother tells her to “net someone” and “capture him.” It turns something that should be mutual and personal into something strategic, and it highlights how deeply external expectations are starting to influence Ellie’s sense of value and direction.

In contrast, Homa feels grounded in purpose rather than perception. She remains charismatic and self-assured, but what stands out most is how clearly she is oriented toward justice and impact. Her ambition isn’t about personal advancement. It’s about engaging with the realities of the world she lives in and wanting to change them. Where Ellie is being shaped by social performance, Homa feels anchored in principle and conviction.

I also noticed how quickly social dynamics start to reveal quiet class awareness, even in seemingly casual interactions. There’s a subtle shift in how people group themselves and who feels like they naturally belong together. It made me think about how easily class becomes embedded in friendship spaces without ever being directly named.

More than anything, this section made me reflect on how identity is shaped in these in-between years. Even without anything dramatic happening, you can already see how environment, family expectations, and social positioning begin to influence the paths people assume for themselves. It’s fascinating to watch how differently that is playing out for Ellie and Homa.

Wow, this book is so different from what I remember from high school. All the deep diving and analyzing I had to do back then and yet, I don't remember some of these absolutely wild parts. Then again, it has been a while and I'm not being forced to read it this time. I'm so glad to be revisiting it.

How many books do y’all do you normally pack when going to the beach for a week? I’m over here with my bag like, “maybe 6 is too many if I’m also bringing my Kobo”.

I tend to read a lot more than usual on vacation, so I’m just wondering how many of you are also prolific book packers…or if one and done is more popular!

Does anyone have suggestions for places to listen to audiobooks? I typically use Libby, but sometimes it takes a very long time for my holds to become available 🎧