Discuss “Anatomy of a Boyfriend”

In the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s, Judy Blume’s Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret was essential reading for young girls on the verge of puberty. The amusing and true-to-life narrative answers many of the questions its readers may have about their changing bodies and newly discovered sexualities. Daria Snadowsky’s Anatomy of a Boyfriend, which is dedicated to Judy Blume, attempts to update this rite-of-passage story. Snadowsky introduces a post-millennium character who has passed through puberty and is now prepared to learn through experiences.

Dominique Baley, the virgin protagonist, identifies herself as perhaps the only 17-year-old who has never French-kissed before, but she has her reasons; she explains, “In my experience all...