Getting on the bus the first day of going to a new school for eighth grade, I saw a girl I didn't know in a brace that looked just like the one described in Deenie. Having read this book that summer, instead of being shy or feeling awkward about approaching her I just felt curious and sympathetic. I started talking to her and we're still friends 40 years later. Fun to reread this book and revisit the memories. Once again, thank you Judy Blume.