by Sandy Steele

Created on: January 04, 2009   Last Updated: July 12, 2010

This past year we saw shows come and go. We went through a tough writers' strike at the beginning. Summer was on its way and so was the new summer season on the cable networks. Towards the end was when I found my 2008 find of the year. It was a little show that sparked my interest. Enough so, that I stayed up all night watching reruns on the Internet so I could get caught up with the new hit show from ABC Family.

That's right, I feel in love with "The Secret Life of the American Teenager". How? I am still asking myself that same question. This show is from the creators of "7th Heaven" and while in the beginning of that series I loved that show, towards the end I was horrified at how off the mark they had gotten with such beloved characters. Anyway, I thought to myself as I heard about "The Secret Life of the American Teenager" that somehow the creators would mess this one up too. We shall see how well they do before I pass total judgment!

Then one night last summer I sat in front of my computer for eight hours straight in the dark and absolutely fell in love with the characters. Amy is a fifteen year old girl that hardly knows about sex, but has a one night stand while at band camp. You learn this from the first episode. Now she is pregnant and must decide what to do. Ben, is also fifteen and on the first day of school sees Amy and falls madly in love with her. What will be his reaction to Amy's news that she is pregnant? You'll have to watch and find out for yourselves.

Other characters include, Ricky; the one night stand and basically man-whore at this High School. Grace; the goody-goody, religious girl that is so happy about everything. Adrian; lover to Ricky, Jack, and whoever else she wants. Jack; Graces boyfriend, until Adrian gets him! Amy's parents, sister, and two best friends, who I can't remember their names! Grace's parents and brother. Ben's Dad and two best friends Alice and Henry, Adrian's Mom, and Ricky's foster family.

Parents, this could be an opportunity to show your children the consequences of having sex too young. This show I think is to inspire parents to have a starting point in talking with your children about such a touchy subject.

Teenagers, this could be a real eye opening show for you to watch and I encourage any young person to watch with an adult so you can ask questions about what you see and hear.

No, this show isn't overtly sexual, but they do talk about sex; very openly. Watch one episode and see for yourself if it is worth it. I think this is the new show of 2008! Happy watching to all!

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