Freaks, Geeks, and Cook Kids: American teenagers, schools, and the culture of consumption

Author: Murray Milner, Jr.

First line: A great deal has been written about American teenagers.

Why you should read this book: Why do American teenagers, as a group, engage in so many behaviors that disturb adults? Milner argues that adolescent's lack of control over their own lives, combined with the very little bit of status available to them as a group, shapes high school society and adolescent behavior, and that reflects and contributes to the capitalist agenda. His research involved hundreds of reporters and observers providing field research over a space of years and covers the whole spectrum of the high school experience.

Why you shouldn't read this book: You haven't yet overcome the painful memories of your own puberty.