In a rapidly changing mid-century America marked by ambition and prejudice, two young women cling to the one thing the world can’t take from them: each other. Pen and Gail dream big in a society determined to keep women small. As they step into adulthood, they confront the realities of racism, the seduction of romance, and the ruthless misogyny of a business world built for men. Beauty, intelligence, and drive open doors—but also make them more vulnerable than either could have imagined.
One must navigate life without a mother’s guidance. The other is shaped by a woman whose love is both anchor and compass. The social and economic tides of the era push them toward futures they did not anticipate. Along the way, unexpected allies influence their choices. They learn that wealth and success may not protect them from heartache and disappointment.
When violence threatens their safety and passion tests their loyalty, Pen and Gail must decide what success truly means—and how their friendship can survive the vagaries of an evolving social order.
Coming of Age is a sweeping story of resilience and the unbreakable bond that defines a lifetime.
Meet Pen and Gail
Pen Applegate—
“Sally, I don’t think I’ve handled this well—I mean Pen. I think I’ve sheltered her too much. . . . Pen told us that she had been to the grocery store with Binnie and her mother. She was amazed that that was where people got food. Of course, all our groceries are ordered by Mrs. Nelson and delivered. . . . “I see,” Sally said softly. “Go on.” Katherine told her about Pen defending Henrietta and the subsequent meeting with the dean of students and the entire volleyball team. “I think Pen has an almost innate sense of fairness, of justice, whatever, that relates to the fact that she is effectively an orphan, no mom, no dad. . . . So, I think I, or we, need to give her more exposure.” . . . in four years, she will inherit a business empire worth millions.”
Gail O’Leary—
From the start, Patty O’Leary took an active role in her daughter’s growth and development. . . . Patty took her to St. Alphonse’s soup kitchen every week. “Some people don’t have enough to eat,” she explained to Gail. “I think we should help them. Don’t you?” Gail, ten at the time, nodded agreement. “I need a partner to help me,” said her mother. “Will you pass out the cookies?” Gail, of course, agreed and felt important for being a “partner.” Gail grew up in a house with busy, effective parents who exemplified a balance between work and fun, prioritizing work over pleasure, and an appreciation for others, especially those who needed help.