a mom and a daughter exchange letters about the usual teen conflicts and the daughter tells (some) truth (i doubt she spilled everything - like she says she doesn't go to parties anymore b/c they're a hassle. doubt it!)
but at least she's not a total angel: she went out of state to visit a secret boyfriend and her mom was clueless

anyhow, i got some good conversation starters thoughout the book - like for your teen's friends:
how did you meet her?
who does she hang with?
what's the thing you like best/least about her? do you trust her?

if you hear unsettling things about these friends, it's not the time to spout off wih your beliefs/judgement. ask our teen what THEY think of that behavior. spend more time listening than lecturing.

for your moody teen - saying you don't seem like yourself - long pause...
OR you don't seem yourself ever since (fill in the blank) - long pause... could yield a breakthrough sharing moment.

and the topic of sex can be direct and helful:
like 'what would you like to know about sex?'
or 'does the idea seem scary/exciting?'
if they have friends having sex, then what have they said about it