Super Short Summary

In A Tribe Apart, Patricia Hersch chronicles the lives of eight teenagers in Reston, Virginia, over three years to explore the complex social and moral landscapes they navigate. By observing their school life, social interactions, and home environments, Hersch reveals that adolescents possess their own intricate cultures and values, which are often misunderstood by adults. Hersch argues that adults can and should bridge the gap to understand and guide teenagers more effectively. Sensitive topics include substance use and parental neglect.