Relationships

One of the primary themes running through the novel is relationships. The novel reveals that even the individuals that make up a family have different relationships among the family members. For example, Robin is close to both of his parents, but in different ways. Mrs. Murphy tends to coddle Robin, but Mr. Murphy tends to lead Robin by example.

Friendship is another type of relationship the novel tackles. First, Sophie is popular and has two best friends, Grace and Rachel. After Sophie starts dating Robin, however, these friendships are put to the test and they fail. Rachel and Grace stop being friends with Sophie. Eventually, Rachel and Sophie rekindle their friendship, but Grace and Sophie don't.

Romantic relationships are also tackled in the novel. Sophie is Robin's first girlfriend and first kiss. While Robin is not Sophie's first boyfriend, he is her first true love. Robin and Sophie...