In this young adult novel, Judy Blume delves into the themes of young love, sexual awakening, and infidelity. The story prominently features the journey of Katherine and Michael as they explore their sexuality and feelings for each other. Katherine is deeply attracted to Michael, her handsome classmate. Once they become a couple, the issue of physical intimacy becomes a persistent concern for her. She feels skeptical about casual sex, while Michael believes it is an essential act for couples to build closeness.
He invites Katherine to his ski house, hoping to become intimate with her, and they initiate their physical relationship for the first time, where Katherine learns about pleasuring a man. Her parents warn her that it might only be infatuation after sharing their own first love experiences. Katherine and Michael decide to have sex at his sister's apartment, but Katherine feels disappointed as it differs from her expectations. Katherine begins taking birth control pills after learning Sybil, a classmate, became pregnant from unprotected sex, underlining the importance of safe practices.
Meanwhile, Michael gifts her a necklace inscribed with "Forever" alongside her name, symbolizing his sincere love for Katherine. During summer vacation, they are apart due to summer jobs. Katherine, distanced from Michael, realizes she may not love him as deeply as she thought and starts spending time with her tennis instructor, Theo. Feeling conflicted about developing feelings for Theo while still in a relationship with Michael, she eventually confesses to Michael and decides to end their relationship, believing he isn't her "forever."
The novel portrays the complexities of young love. Despite Katherine's desire for a perfect love story, she struggles to grasp the true essence of love, particularly loyalty. Both she and Michael fail to realize that physical attraction and love are distinct emotions, which becomes evident as Katherine's feelings shift upon meeting someone she finds more attractive than Michael. Her parents' guidance ultimately influences her decisions, encouraging her to explore new possibilities with Theo.
