Starcrossed

As the subtitle to this humorous, thoughtful, and daring memoir indicates, "Starcrossed" is the story of three Jewish American Princesses (JAPs) who wanted to be Catholic in the early 1960s. A unique coming-of-age tale about growing up in a tumultuous time, it carries readers into the lives of three Jewish teenage girls who are spellbound when they find heaven-in a Catholic church.

Enticed by the blonde locks; small, turned-up nose; and smooth dance moves of a Catholic boy in their neighborhood, Gail, Carolee, and Marilyn defy convention and cross a line that their parents had clearly drawn.

The girls were forbidden to mingle, or "mix," with persons of other religions-but, "Starcrossed" shows how the trio defied these rules and were able to explore life, find personal freedom, and, ultimately, claim their independence.

Despite the fact that it was unheard of at the time, Gail, Carolee, and Marilyn regularly attended dances held in a Catholic church, where beautiful boys lined up to dance with them, and they were surrounded by music, laughter, and friendship that was blind to faith.

Sure to touch your heart and lift your spirits, "Starcrossed" is a refreshing work that stresses the innocence of youth, rather than its corruption.