Robinet develops Hallelujah as an impatient and self-centered African-American protagonist. Employing a limited thirdperson point-of-view, the author successfully focuses readers on Hallelujah's thoughts and feelings. Hallelujah wants her way, yet feels self-conscious and doubts her worth.

As Hallelujah leads readers through the adventure, her child-like perspective matures. She becomes aware of her limited thinking and begins to look at people and life in a new way. Hallelujah's transformation allows the author to deal with key issues for young people, including racial discrimination, self-worth, death, and compassion.

Hallelujah's wealthy and pampered Caucasian friend, Elizabeth, is timid and awkward at taking care of herself. She is educated, traveled, and polite. Elizabeth's honesty and thoughtfulness enable Hallelujah and Elizabeth to develop into instant friends.

However, Elizabeth's parents frown on Hallelujah for her skin color, calling her a "nigger." Later, separated from her parents, Elizabeth meets Hallelujah again...