The characters swear frequently, including 'f-k' and its variations, 's-t' and its variations, 'a-hole,' 'd-k,' 'bitch,' 'slut,' and 'whore.' Some of these actions are characterized as typical teen behavior, but most are not portrayed in a positive light, especially the drinking and casual sexual hookups. The teen characters smoke cigarettes and pot, drink to excess, drive while high, drive without a license, and have sex. In addition to following Eden's emotional journey, the book portrays the problem of 'slut shaming': how it starts, why it's a weapon, and the impact it can have on teen girls. The other violence mostly is bullying and sexual harassment. The depiction of the rape is intense and may be too much for younger or sensitive readers. The subject matter can be tough going, as are the descriptions of the rape and the way Eden descends into risky behavior and self-destruction over the four years following the attack. Parents need to know The Way I Used to Be follows the story of a girl's high school experience after she is raped by her brother's best friend. One character claims she needs to drink to have fun.ĭid you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide. A character drives home while high on pot. A few big parties with lots of heavy drinking depicted. A couple of teen girls drink beer and smoke pot with strangers and end up passing out in a park.

Underage girls dress provocatively and flirt with cashier to buy beer illegally. One teen starts drinking in the afternoon, implying a worsening alcohol problem. Many teens drink to get drunk at parties. A few main characters drink, smoke, cigarettes, and try pot. The book shows a lot of alcohol consumption.

The Way I Used to Be by Amber Smith