P.S. I Still Love You (2000) Parents Guide: Is the book OK for kids?

The narrative is heavily driven by the fallout of a viral video showing Lara Jean and Peter kissing in a hot tub. While the protagonists only kiss and cuddle, the video sparks malicious rumors of sexual intercourse and 'hand stuff,' leading to significant slut-shaming. Lara Jean and Peter share several intense make-out sessions, particularly in his car and at a treehouse, though descriptions remain focused on emotion rather than biology. Characters like Stormy frequently make bawdy, suggestive comments about past…

Physical violence is absent from the story, with the conflict being primarily social and emotional. The most physical aspect is a high-stakes school-wide game of 'Assassins,' where characters track each other down and 'kill' targets by placing stickers on them, which creates a sense of suspense and minor aggression. There is a scene involving the dismantling of a childhood treehouse, which serves as a metaphor for the end of childhood but involves no injury. Minor accidents occur, such as Lara Jean slipping on ice…

Profanity is used sparingly and generally reflects common high school vernacular. The word 'bitch' is used in a derogatory manner during a pivotal confrontation regarding the leaked hot tub video. Other mild expletives include 'hell,' 'damn,' and 'ass,' often used when characters are under stress or arguing about their reputations. There are occasional uses of 'oh my God' as an exclamation throughout the book. The language is realistic for the Young Adult genre without being pervasive or gratuitous, focusing more…

Underage drinking is depicted as a reality of high school social life, though the protagonist, Lara Jean, generally avoids it. At a house party in Chapter 17, characters are seen with red solo cups, and beer is mentioned as being readily available. Lara Jean's father and their neighbor, Trina, are shown consuming wine in a responsible, domestic setting, reflecting a positive adult model of drinking. One character mentions feeling 'buzzed,' but there are no scenes of extreme intoxication, vomiting, or drug use. The…

The book explores the damaging effects of cyberbullying and the permanence of digital footprints through the lens of a leaked private video. It highlights the gendered double standards of slut-shaming, as Lara Jean faces more social repercussions than Peter. Other central themes include the complexities of parental dating as Mr. Covey begins a relationship with Trina, and the responsibilities of elder care seen through Lara Jean’s job at the Belleview retirement home. The story also touches on the grief of losing…