My Girl

The spring of 1974 marks a period of significant social change in America, with the end of the Vietnam War approaching and new cultural movements emerging. For Vada, this time represents her own personal growth and the transition from childhood to adolescence, filled with trials, tribulations, and discoveries about her family.

Madison, Pennsylvania, serves as the primary backdrop for Vada's childhood and the funeral parlor where her father works. The spring thaw symbolizes a time of renewal and change for Vada as she navigates her adolescence. Los Angeles becomes a pivotal location as Vada explores her mother's past, revealing the vibrant and multifaceted life of the city.

💔 Loss & Grief

The theme of loss permeates Vada's journey as she grapples with the absence of her mother. Vada's essay on her late mother reflects her effort to understand and come to terms with this loss, helping her to process her identity and familial connections.

🔍 Identity & Discovery

As Vada embarks on a quest to learn more about her mother, she also discovers her own identity. The revelations about Maggie's past compel Vada to confront her own insecurities and ultimately lead to a deeper understanding of her heritage and family dynamics.

💞 Love & Relationships

Vada's interactions with friends and family highlight the complexities of love and relationships during adolescence. Her feelings for Kevin and her complex relationship with her father and stepmother illustrate the tumultuous yet formative nature of young love.