Restless Virgins: Love, Sex, and Survival at a New England Prep School

by Marissa Miley and Abigail Jones

Book Overview

An honest, intimate look at the lives of today's teens--told through the true experiences of friends at a New England prep school

Established in 1798, Milton Academy has a proud history of achievement. It has educated artists and CEOs; it has produced a long line of distinguished scholars and dignitaries; and it has shepherded students through the world of high-pressure academics for generations. Since its founding, the public face of Milton...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0061192058
• ISBN13: 9780061192050
• Release Date: August 2007
• Publisher: William Morrow & Company
• Length: 336 Pages
• Weight: 1.27 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 6.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

Parents, beware...

Although many parents would not want to know what really goes on in some of these boarding schools, it would be a good idea for them to read this book. It is important for parents to talk to their kids about sex, drugs, etc. and try to help them not to fall into the trap that the kids in this book fell into. Granted, nobody can stop teenagers from doing whatever they want-- they will always find a way. This book exposes some very harsh realities about growing up. One consolation is that the authors were graduates from that school and ultimately turned out okay... I think many of the bad reviews here are based on people not wanting to face reality, as unpleasant as it is. Well written, honest account.

The most complete look inside the teen psyche in ages

The fact that virtually every reviewer loved or hated this book, may be reason enough to read it. What surprised me about the negative comments were that some suggested this excellent book was "boring" while others seemed to want more discussion of the unfortunate consensual sex that turned into a public scandal, only because it became known outside the circle of teens who saw it as just one more "story." The authors (significantly, recent Milton grads)clearly spent an extraordinary amount of time with the book's subjects and won their trust as the thoughts that are shared throughout the narrative are clearly embarassing, painful,heartfelt, and most importantly,real.Most books about teens sensationalize, infantalize or condescend to the subjects. This is the first book I've read in forever that made me believe I was learning what the kids were thinking and feeling, rather than what they wanted adults to think they were thinking and feeling. For those who felt the authors were prurient, I couldn't diasgree more. They did an amazing job of conveying different teens thoughts on sex, from the guys who took as much as they could to show off, to the girls who felt obligated to engage in activities because it was expected. The toughest part was how much sex led to so little caring and surprisingly so little joy.I think every parent should read this book as their child is already growing up in a world where no actual teenager would be surprised by anything written here.

A great, thought provoking read

I think what these authors have done is extremely successful and the controversy that surrounds it is a testament to that. I congratulate the authors on writing something that draws attention to the misogynistic culture that is rife and deep-rooted in some schools and colleges today. The detail of their research is profound and shows their book is very much based in the reality of teenage life today and raises the related problems that society needs to address. Recommended read.

a piece of journalism

I read this book with little knowledge of the Milton scandal of '05. In my opinion, Restless Virgins (unlike Prep or I am Charlotte Simmons) is, refreshingly, a work of journalism. It consists of factual and historical account re-worked into literary prose that speaks to teenage sexual tendencies in today's culture. Despite the crudeness of some of the behaviors the authors record, I was still able to identify with more than one character - their insecurity, excitement, fear and naiveté pervasive in high school are feelings we can all remember. This book brings us back to those awkward moments with compassion, allowing us to think introspectively about our own behaviors as a teenager and contrast them with those of today's generation. The almost uncomfortably intimate level of detail with which the authors report is, not-surprisingly, a pre-requisite to getting these overlooked and undervalued issues of sexuality, identity, social power and self-accountability on the table.

Through The Looking Glass

A truly honest window into the world of today's teenagers through the eyes of those not far removed from the scene. As a parent of two young women who lived close to the world they described, it is an essential resource for teenagers and parents. Even if you communicate with your children and think "this cannot be my child" prepare yourself with the insight these young authors have shared with us. Their writing is direct and "pulls no punches" but that may be what it takes to wake us up and take notice. I applaud Abigail and Marissa for their courage and honesty. A stellar first effort. Will await the next!