"Shug" is a young adult novel by Jenny Han. The story is set in a small Southern town and follows the life of Annemarie Wilcox, or "Shug," as she navigates the challenges of growing up. Shug is twelve years old and is beginning to experience the complexities of teenage life, including changing friendships, first crushes, and family problems. She is particularly concerned with her relationship with her longtime friend and crush, Mark, who seems to be drifting away from her. Along the way, Shug learns important lessons about love, friendship, and self-acceptance, and begins to understand the value of being true to oneself. The novel explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and the struggles of adolescence, and offers a relatable and heartfelt portrait of growing up.