The story follows the journey of 17-year-old Marybeth:
* Desperate for acceptance: Marybeth yearns to be part of the "in crowd," dreaming of attending prom with her crush, the popular and seemingly perfect Jordan. She endures relentless teasing and social isolation, making desperate attempts to fit in.
* Trapped in a toxic relationship: She falls for the charming yet manipulative and abusive "Bad Boy" Alex. Their relationship is a roller coaster of intense passion and emotional turmoil.
* The devastating night of the prom: While attending prom with Alex, Marybeth is drugged and sexually assaulted by Jordan. She grapples with the trauma, guilt, and shame, struggling to process what happened and find her voice.
* Finding her strength: As Marybeth confronts the truth about the night of the prom, she discovers a network of support, learns to trust her intuition, and begins to heal. She also learns about the power of her voice and the importance of breaking the silence surrounding sexual assault.
Through Marybeth's journey, the novel tackles:
* The dynamics of high school cliques and the relentless pursuit of popularity: The pressure to fit in and the consequences of social exclusion are vividly portrayed.
* The allure and dangers of "bad boy" relationships: The novel examines the seductive nature of these relationships and their potential for harm.
* The impact of sexual assault on young people: Anderson does not shy away from the emotional, physical, and psychological ramifications of sexual violence.
* The importance of seeking support and finding your voice: Marybeth's journey highlights the strength found in opening up and speaking out against abuse.
"Prom" is a raw and unflinching portrayal of teenage life, providing a nuanced exploration of the issues young people face and the resilience they possess. It is a story that resonates with readers of all ages, offering a powerful message of empowerment and hope.