In Surrogate Sister Bunting creates a novel that deals with controversial issues in an entertaining format that appeals to teen-agers. Although the story contains some of the traditional trappings of the teen-age romance, it is more than another addition to the romance genre. By presenting the issues of surrogate parenting, teen-age sex, abortion, and birth control, Bunting indicates her willingness to tackle problems pertinent to the teen-age milieu.

While there is a certain glibness to Cassie's decision to postpone sexual intimacy with Sam, the book refrains from giving pat answers to complex questions and approaches an openendedness that reflects life. While Mrs. Dedrick is momentarily happy about the baby, the reader knows there is inevitable pain for her when she must give her son away. Deenie has resolved to find a means other than abortion to protect against child-bearing, but she remains in an abusive relationship...