Spike (Degrassi Junior High Series)

Rating:
Summary: Pure gold ...
Review: As a big fan of the 'Degrassi' series I had avoided reading the fiction 'spin offs', fearing they may not measure up to the show I loved so much. Upon reading 'Spike' I realised the folly of my ways - it was an entertaining read and almost identical to the episodes surrounding her teenage pregnancy.
Besides including kitsch 80s details - such as a description of Spike's outrageous neo-Romantic hairdo and 'Zit Remedy's musical stylings - this book carries a message about young women and sexuality, which remains relevant today. It highlights the sexist and hypocritical education system when Spike is forced to leave Degrassi until her child is born, lest she set a 'bad example' for her female peers. Spike also provides a powerful voice for women's right to choose abortion - although she chooses to have her baby, she confronts her boyfriend's Christian moralising head on and insists upon her rights as a female.
A must for any Degrassi fans and young people who enjoy reading books dealing with contemporary issues.