The author reflects on her long-standing obsession with the Sweet Valley High series, highlighting how those stories provided an escape from her own life. Unlike the characters like Elizabeth and Jessica, she felt disconnected from their world, particularly their romantic interests and social circles. The characters embodied a life of friendship and acceptance, which was a stark contrast to her reality.

Through these books, she found solace in imagining a different existence where she belonged, had meaningful relationships, and was accepted for who she was. This yearning for a "better life" allowed her to envision herself as someone who conformed to the ideals represented in the novels, showcasing the power of literature to influence personal identity and aspirations.