We, Elizabeth and Jessica Wakefield, are twins at Sweet Valley High. On the outside, there is no denying that we are identical in every respect. We share the same silky sun-streaked golden hair and dazzling white smiles, the same delicate features and sparkling long-lashed eyes the color of the Pacific Ocean. We're blessed with perfect suntanned size-six figures, thanks to our active southern-California lifestyles. Together, we form a double image of sun-kissed, all-American loveliness. So, we're both popular, smart, and gorgeous, but that's where the similarity ends. Beneath the surface, it is a different story.
Elizabeth: I tend to play down my looks. I'm most comfortable in khaki shorts and a polo shirt, with my long blond hair pulled back in a barrette or practical ponytail. Maybe it is because I think who a person is inside and what she does is more important than how she looks. I always try to be friendly, outgoing, and sincere to everyone - even if they aren't as pretty or popular as me- nothing like my snobbish and conniving twin. I know people think of me as the solemn older twin; I was born four minutes before Jessica. However, I have a playful sense of humor to balance my serious side. I like having fun and doing things with my close friends, but I also love reading, writing, and spending time alone, just thinking. I'm serious about my schoolwork and put my whole heart and soul into the writing I do for the Sweet Valley High newspaper, The Oracle. My most cherished ambition is to be a successful writer. In contrast to my sister, who enjoys attracting boys by the dozen like bees to honey, I'm content with the admiration and affection of one special guy, my longtime boyfriend, Todd Wilkins.
Jessica: I know Elizabeth thinks I'm self-centered and shallow because I am more interested in sorority activities and cheerleading than earning honor-roll grades, and given a choice, I'd take the beach or the mall over the library any day. However, I approve of ambition as long as it is directed at something worth having- for instance, a funky new outfit or a date with a gorgeous guy. I've always liked to be the center of attention. I make the most of my natural advantages by favoring trendy, skimpy fashions, subtle but sexy makeup, and glamorous hairstyles. I love to bring traffic to a screeching halt by wearing my skintight jeans and a flimsy camisole top. Normally, I spend most of my free time with fellow members of the Pi Beta Alpha sorority and the Sweet Valley High cheerleading squad. We talk about clothes, makeup, and boys. I always get what I want - at school, with friends, and especially with boys.
For all our differences, however, we are extremely close. I know I can count on Elizabeth to bail me out of scrapes, and Elizabeth knows that I'll always be there when she needs me.
