Coming of Age

This novel, foremost, tells the story of Annie Brown's journey from childhood to adulthood. She leaves childhood behind when she, against her mother's wishes, moves away to marry Carl Brown, her childhood sweetheart.

The novel, to a lesser extent, tells the coming of age story of Carl, who goes from a single college sophomore to a husband, father and lawyer in two years. He steps up to provide for his family while pursuing his dreams to become a lawyer.

Several conflicts arise within the novel that causes growth in the characters of Annie and Carl. Annie learns much about how the adult world works when she begins observing the students on campus. She strives to copy the young female students, viewing them as much more sophisticated than she is.

When Annie becomes pregnant, however, she grows up faster than ever. Soon, the activities that entertain the...