Kerr has written a large number of books designed especially for young adults. In all of these, she has shown a high degree of sensitivity to the language, thought processes, activities, concerns, and aspirations of teen-agers.

In many cases, Kerr focuses attention of teen-agers with problems that are unusual. On the other hand, in Dinky Hocker Shoots Smack, the major characters are not into drugs, as the title might suggest, but are plagued with common problems associated with being overweight, having psychological problems, attempting to become involved in first-time dating, and maintaining relationships with parents who tend to lack understanding of the perspectives from which the characters view their worlds.

Kerr is especially sympathetic to teen-agers grappling with problems associated with being the offspring of parents whose occupations or achievements place inordinate responsibilities on them. In the Son of Someone Famous as in What...