This is one of the best books I have ever read...funny, moving, great characters...I just loved it! Corrine lives in Valentine, Oklahome, with her Aunt, her Aunt's new husband, and her cousin, a sweet and different little boy who lives in his own world. She is about to celebrate her 13th birthday and wants pierced ears and for Ricky Dale to give her her first kiss. At the same time, in New Orleans, her mother feels remorseful about giving her up while she tried to sort out her own chaotic life and decides to come to Valentine during Christmas to try to fix things up. As the characters interact and grow through experiences they share, they start to understand each other and become better people for it. The view is written through almmost-13-year old Corrine's eyes and her take on life is so refreshing and so very 13! This is a WONDERFUL book and I was thrilled to see she has written others set in Valentine, Oklahome...I bought every one and anticipate several great reads!!