In My Darling, My Hamburger, Paul Zindel introduces readers to two teenage couples Maggie and Dennis and Liz and Sean. Having conflict with their parents, Liz and Sean aggressively profess their love for each other, however the consequences of their actions become life altering. Maggie and Dennis are trying to conqueror life's complications and cope with becoming young adults.  These free spirited teens are confronted with real life adult issues in Zindel's novel. Boldly, the author explores the serious dynamics associated with teenage love affairs, friendships, and lifestyles.

The most significant feature of My Darling, My Hamburger is Zindel's courageous focus on sensitive teen issues.  His approach is exceptionally brave and provides for sensational reading material. The novel, published in 1967, covers such touchy issues as teenage abortion and sexual intercourse in an extremely mature non-sugar coated manner.

"She read the name on the sign over and over, J. LaSalle, M.D., she wouldn't forget the name. If anything happened to Liz, shed see they found him."

This coming of age story includes complex young characters who are making the transition from childhood to adulthood. They are faced with finding solutions to their first real-life adult dilemmas.  With a combination of determination and loyal friends, these teens are finding the true path to maturity and adulthood.  Zindel's novel carries the theme-those things in life that don't kill you, make you stronger.