We All Looked Up

Definitions of "Pyrrhic victory," "categorical imperative," and "utilitarianism." A "karass" is defined and its source from Kurt Vonnegut identified. A few beginner phrases in Spanish aren't translated but are understandable from context. A quote from To the Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf. Origin of the word "revelation." Historical significance of Sand Point Airfield. Experience Music Project briefly explained. Some geography of Seattle and a few points of interest.

Almost all characters, all teens, drink alcohol frequently and to excess. Some smoke cigarettes and marijuana and cut school or blow off homework; others are high-achieving "popular" kids whose behavior is better. But all are basically good, decent human beings making mistakes as they try to figure out growing up and what life should be about; and all reach mature conclusions and do the right thing in the end.

Kissing and making out described briefly. Teens think and talk about losing virginity; two teens bet whether one will have sex before world-ending event. Erectile dysfunction, masturbation, and syphilis mentioned. Dancers mimic doggy-style sex. People seen moving slowly under covers. One incident of intercourse described vaguely. One character uses sexuality to exercise some control over herself and the world around her. One make-out session almost leads to sex.

Usually to establish mood or character, a wide variety of brand names, each used once or twice and mostly of restaurants, snack foods, beverages, alcoholic beverages, clothing stores, car makes, and bands or musical acts. An end note promotes the author's companion album to the book and directs readers to the author's website for a free download and buying links for the album.