In 1987, Philadelphia had the highest teenage birth rate in America, with one in nine teenage girls getting pregnant. The story explores beyond that statistic, focusing instead on one individual's narrative. It follows 16-year old Dearie Scott from Northeast Philadelphia through her pregnancy and birth. Through the process she has the loving support of her mother, Charmaine Clowney and partner,19-year old Charles Cottman. 

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Published in the Philadelphia Inquirer, on March 15, 1987.