Several important social issues are treated with a good deal of sensitivity.

The characterization of the protagonist is handled particularly well. Jenny is depicted as a strong, independent young woman, not merely intelligent and imaginative, but also totally capable of pursuing her own goals completely on her own. She is a wellrounded character, with the usual human faults of self-doubt and fear, but she is able to overcome them. Jenny is a good role model for the teen-age reader.

The author also deals both sensitively and humorously with class distinctions. In the small town of Meldrum, the wealthy family of Firbelle is held in awe by most of the community, but a closer look at their life reveals significant problems. Jenny has been raised by a well-to-do aunt and uncle, for whom she has little respect and whom she is eager to escape. The lifestyle of...