Confusion turned to Chaos is about the struggles of high school in 1968, the year Madelyn West turns sixteen. Confusion turned to Chaos tells stories of important historical events, as well as Madelyn's private high-school and home-life experiences and difficulties; including bullying, prejudice, racism, the mafia, and cliques. Madelyn encounters Bruce Springsteen and makes the acquaintance of Tony Soprano.

In the end Madelyn is able to help avert a race riot at Clear Mountain High School near Newark, NJ. Proof that one average kid, with problems, can make a difference. The theme of Confusion turned to Chaos is tolerance and acceptance. The names have been changed to protect the guilty. Like 'Crash,' Confusion turned to Chaos is meant to provoke discussions among high-school and college students and open channels of healthy communication.

Madelyn's thoughts are in italics throughout the book.

"Confusion turned to Chaos is an adventure in reading!"-L. McGinnis