I did enjoy reading the first book, though, and I saw immediately why many girls like it, and for many of the same reasons that Flanagan mentioned in your quote. I have really two problems with it though.

The first being that, while the main characters are 17, the books are being picked up and idolized by girls are are much younger, even pre-dating age. Even the first book, as tame as it is, displays to them to a very physical, very driving, almost lust filled relationship. A relationship that seems counter to church guidelines even for 17 year olds steamrolls over the guidelines for our younger youth. They are exploring that world and getting a taste that is all the more powerful because of the real and honest love that Bella and Edward develop for each other.

In all fairness, young girls have been reading physical stuff like this for a while, though, and nothing is going to stop them from doing it. So why pick on twilight?

Because, as unfair as it is, Meyer is a member of the church. Unfortunately, I feel the need to hold her to a higher standard. Perhaps this is unfair, but I have heard many seminary students say that the books are okay because they are written by a member. Sure, perhaps that is simply a rationalization. It’s one that is tough to ignore, though.

So, she offers this wonderful, engrossing, maybe even addicting, story, and binds her young readers hearts to it with soft, silken scarves. She leads them all too willingly down a path through subject matter that is not safe for them, or anyone, to go. While the girls in my class admit that the relationship is physical, and that the subject matter is stronger than they should be reading, they do not pull away. They say they “skip over” those parts, and justify it. This would be my second concern over the series.

My wife and I have counseled our daughters not to read it, but we have left the choice ultimately up to them. I think we would have done this regardless of the religious affiliation of the author.