[nopardons]

I read the book long ago; so long ago, that what you posted never entered my mind, because it just was NOT anything like it is today, back then.

OTOH...I was not all that old/removed from the age groups talked about and knew that kids were mean and vicious underneath the facade of being "civilized", so it struck a cord.

Times have changed and yes, evidence proves that your post is not only correct, but sadly, one of the most insightful ever posted to FR.

[Pontiac]

That is very high praise coming from you who have been of FR longer than me.

I am not sure that I deserve it, but thank you.