How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #4
'Mmm, check it out,' said Vee. 'Mr. Green Sweater is getting out of his seat. Now that's a body that hits the gym regularly.' (4.39)
Vee is not shy about judging Elliot's bod. Is her ability to flip objectification onto male characters empowering? Is it a sign that women can have control and choice in sex and relationships? Or does this just play further into traditional stereotypes by linking female characters and sex?
Quote #5
Vee caught me off guard with a pair of turquoise leopard print undies slung at my chest. 'These would look nice on you,' she said. 'All you need is a booty like mine to fill them.' (10.51)
This passage is from a shopping trip Nora and Vee take. It seems harmless enough. Lots of teens go shopping with friends every day, and plenty of them even go to Victoria's Secret, which is where Nora and Vee are. It's fun to slog through the sales bins and see what you'll find.
But lots of teens also go to shoe stores or try on sunglasses or pick out jeans. The book chooses to put Nora and Vee in a lingerie store, rather than one of these other shop options. It's a reminder that even in a casual, social event with a friend, sex is at the forefront in the book, as is the issue of female sexual objectification.
Quote #6
Patch was warm and solid, and he smelled fantastic. Like mint and rich, dark earth. Nobody had jumped out at us on the ride home […] For the first time all day I felt safe.
Except that Patch had cornered me in a dark tunnel and was possible stalking me. Maybe not so safe.
'I don't go out with strangers,' I said.
'Good thing I do. I'll pick you up at five.' (17.140-43)
Could Patch be any more the poster boy for male stereotypes? He's attractive and strong, both dangerous and protective, dominant, suave, smooth talking, and a hardnosed negotiator who doesn't take no for an answer.