Like many novels for teen-agers, The Luck of Texas McCoy is a story of growth and maturing. It is easy for a teen-age reader to sympathize with Texas since in many ways she is a typical teen-ager herself. True, few young people are in a position where they are in almost total control of their lives, but Texas's fierce independence and efforts to manage her own destiny without the help of adults are qualities that are shared by the age group. The author has created a very likable heroine, with attitudes and characteristics that are totally believable.

Aside from the maturing experiences of Texas, and her realization that she is part of a world and not a loner, the main theme running through the story is one of "do unto others as you want them to do to you." Helping poor, stranded Sandy is a kindness...