Like most girls, I heart this series: the letters, the friendship, the growing up, the pants. And the quotes at the beginning of each chapter. Some favorites: 
 If you feel like you're under control, you're just not going fast enough. -Mario Andretti 
 The problem is not the problem. The problem is your attitude about the problem. Got that? -Coach Brevin 
 You will make all kinds of mistakes: but as long as you are generous and true and also fierce you cannot hurt the world or even seriously distress her. -Winston Churchill 
 Wish for what you want. Work for what you need. -Carmen's grandmother