Jasper is 17, and happily gets involved with all of the above. He also visits a therapist and is convinced that his step-dad is a murderer. So far, so reasonably normal, but it's got edge and it's not just run around fun and games. It might be unfair to refer to Skins at all. Grow Up is, actually, about growing up, and there's more to the story than superficial teenageness. Sure, it's there. But of course it is. Yes, there are mentions of Los Campesinos! but why not? Don't get on your high horse too quickly - these are landmarks, reference points for teenagers. Every teenager does that - defined by the books he reads, the music he listens to, etc - marking where he stands in society. Maybe you don't like it, but that's society for ya, and not just Jasper, or Ben Brooks.
Grow Up isn't just nonsense, and it isn't just junkie fun. Jasper narrates his story in first person present tense (which I personally have a bit of a thing for), and the voice is fresh, honest, and can be very funny. Some of the ways that Jasper views the world are very entertaining, and often quite obscure.
If you are old- and closed- in mind, then don't bother. Otherwise, give it a go and enjoy: Grow Up is a clever and cheeky little read.
