This book is profound. It amazes me that a man wrote so tenderly and truthfully about the growth, both physically and emotionally, from young girl to woman. Infact, I bought the book based on it's cover. I thought it was beautiful and mysterious. What a serendipidous surprise to read it and find out that it was indeed a fabulous book and I had chosen the cover properly. I've lent it out many times, and it is so good, that it has always come back in excellent condition. Read it...it's worth it!