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The Making of Dr. Truelove

(2006, Fiction - Coming of Age, Written by Derrick Barnes)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 16, age appropriate for kids over 99; suggested age 16.

  • Is it any good?

    4.0

  • Common Sense says

    Coming-of-age tale filled with sex -- lessons too.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 16–18

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    Characters have sexist views of women, there are some homophobic remarks, and unsafe sex is discussed.

  • Violence:

    Two school fights, one with actual punches, the other with a threat of violence.

  • Sex:

    First scene in the book is a graphic heavy-petting scene in which characters are nude and trying to have sex for the first time. Throughout the book there is talk of sexual activity including threesomes. Sexually transmitted diseases are passed from one character to another as well as oral sex descriptions. Fantasy, role playing, and public sex are also depicted.

  • Language:

    Graphic sexual talk that goes along with the sexual content of the book. Swearing with some homophobic remarks (i.e., "looking gay"). F-bombs are dropped regularly.

  • Consumerism:

    Designer clothing, cars, and shoes are often discussed.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    J loves his "mary jane," so do some other characters. Alcohol is used by both teens and adults. Some mention of ecstasy use by a rap star. Adults are described smoking cigarettes.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About The Making of Dr. Truelove

Parents need to know that this book made Young Adult Library Services Association's 2008 Popular Paperbacks Nominations list in the "Sex Is a Touchy Subject" category. And yes, the story revolves around relationships and sexuality. This story includes examples of first love and talk of virginity loss, and there are descriptions of male orgasms, simultaneous sex with multiple partners, public sex, and some homophobic remarks. Characters in the story also use heavy profanity.

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Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about sexuality, responsibility, self-acceptance, and maintaining relationships. Why did Diego push his girlfriend away? Who did Diego have to talk to about his problems? Who do you have to talk with about your problems? How do you feel about the use of name brands in the book? Did it help or hurt the book?
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