Monica Hughes has been called "Canada's finest writer of science fiction for children" by critic Sarah Ellis in Horn Book magazine. Ellis goes on to say: "There is a gentleness to her books that is rare. . . . The hairsbreadth escapes, the exotic flora and fauna, . . . the villains and the heroes—all are enclosed in one overriding concern, subtle but ever-present: the value of kindness."

The climax of this novel comes when the factor kidnaps Maureen and imprisons her in the icehouse. Maureen reacts surprisingly well. And after she has been released, she is considerate of the MacDougall family and their horror at finding their own son a deserter hiding on the laird's land.

The headmistress, Miss Priestley, said to Mrs. MacDougall: "I thank you most sincerely for coming to tell me that Maureen might be in danger.

It was brave of you to stand up to...