Ten Things We Did (and Probably Shouldn't Have) Summary & Key Insights

Sarah Mlynowski's "Ten Things We Did (and Probably Shouldn't Have)" follows the intertwined lives of ten best friends navigating the turbulent waters of their senior year of high school. The narrative unfolds through a series of interconnected chapters, each focusing on a different character and their perspective on a particular event or "thing" from their shared past. This structure reveals the complexities of friendship, the blurring lines of right and wrong, and the lasting impact of youthful indiscretions.

The central plot revolves around a seemingly harmless pact made by the ten friends: to do ten things before graduation, pushing the boundaries of their comfortable suburban lives. These "things" range from relatively innocuous acts of rebellion, like sneaking into a party or vandalizing a rival school's mascot, to more serious consequences, such as trespassing, theft, and even potential legal trouble. Each "thing" becomes a catalyst for individual character growth and shifts in their friendships.

The core group of friends is diverse and relatable, showcasing different personalities and social dynamics. Lizzy, the narrator, is the moral compass, though she's not immune to making questionable decisions. Her best friend, the artistic and rebellious Maddy, often pushes the boundaries. Other key characters include the jock, the bookworm, the shy one, and the popular girl, each contributing unique perspectives and experiences to the narrative. Their relationships are complex, marked by both deep loyalty and moments of betrayal, jealousy, and competition.

A significant plot point is the revelation of a secret that threatens to unravel their friendships and jeopardize their futures. This secret, discovered through a series of flashbacks and intertwined narratives, highlights the consequences of actions and the importance of honesty within their close-knit group. As the story progresses, the friends must confront not only the repercussions of their past actions but also the evolving dynamics of their relationships as they prepare for life beyond high school.

Overarching themes explored in the novel include the complexities of adolescent friendships, the blurred lines between right and wrong in the pursuit of experience, the pressure to conform to societal expectations, and the importance of self-discovery. The "ten things" act as a symbolic representation of the trials and tribulations faced during the transition from adolescence to adulthood, emphasizing the lasting impact of both good and bad decisions. The narrative ultimately celebrates the resilience of friendship and the enduring power of shared experiences, even when those experiences push the boundaries of acceptable behavior. While the actions undertaken are questionable, the book explores the universal human experience of pushing limits and learning from mistakes, highlighting the importance of forgiveness and self-reflection in building strong and lasting relationships.