WHAT DO I DO NOW?

The author-photographer of Fighting Back: What Some People Are Doing About AIDS (1989) takes a similar investigative approach in interviewing young women and men of varied socioeconomic groups, affiliated with a wide spectrum of agencies. The emerging picture is both optimistic and discouraging, but a repetitive pattern stands out: immaturity, of the pregnant teens and often of their parents as well (for instance, a woman who refers to her grandchild as her son). Time and again, the baby changes a couple's relationship; almost always, the attitude of the young mother's mother is pivotal to whether the girl will choose to abort, to keep the baby, or to put it up for adoption. Matter-of-factly, Kuklin spells out the daily routines of these young mothers. The message isn't lost: this is no picnic. Adeptly, she folds information in—e.g., you can get pregnant again before your period returns. Throughout, there is emphasis on building a support system, whatever the decision. A fine job. B&w photos; glossary. (Nonfiction. 12+)