This book has a lot of sexual content and language. Ellie has a reputation for hooking up with anyone who gives her a compliment. She thinks every time she's with a guy that they want more than just sex. But each time her heart is broken and she does it again. She doesn't learn her lesson until she is actually pregnant. At first Ellie may not seem like a good role model at first, but she does put her friendships first as do the other characters. It isn't appropriate for younger children, but good for more mature teens.
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Jumping Off Swings
(2009, Fiction - Coming of Age, Written by Jo Knowles)
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Is it age appropriate?
About our ratings(Flash is loading. If this text does not disappear you need to install the latest flash version)
Not age appropriate for kids under 14, age appropriate for kids over 16; suggested age 14. -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Fast-moving coming-of-age tale with sex and consequences.
Themes in this book include: dating/crushes, friendship, peer pressure
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 14–16
The good stuff
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Educational value:
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Role models:
What to watch out for
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Violence:
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Sex:
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Language:
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Consumerism:
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Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
About Jumping Off Swings
Parents need to know that this book has frank talk about sex and relationship issues among teens. The main character sleeps with many boys and one "hook-up" results in pregnancy. There is some swearing (including "f--k"), copious drinking (adult alcoholism and teen drinking), and discussions of abortion and unplanned pregancies.
Read our full review by Terreece Clarke
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about peer pressure. Why is there so much pressure to have sex? Do your friends talk about it a lot?
- Families can also talk about the difference between a loving relationship and sex. What was Ellie looking for in all of her encounters? Why did she feel disappointed after the moment ended? What is the difference between having sex and being in a relationship? Name some positive things that come from being in a relationship with someone before you have sex.
- How were Corinne and Caleb good friends to Ellie? What can you learn from their friendship that you can apply to your own relationships?
Our Members Say
Most Recent Reviews
- I rate this title iffy for age 13 and give itMy concerns are:
- Inappropriate sexual content
- Inappropriate language
- My highlights are:
- Educational
- Good role models
Wonderful Teen Novel
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