This novel capably transports and guides readers to a different era and place like newspapers lead Katherine out of Wisconsin. LaFaye's figurative writing conveys the complexity of her characters and settings.

Critics have referred to her style as poetic, lyrical, and poignant. By providing psychological depth to her characters, LaFaye creates appealing young adult personalities who are struggling with dilemmas with which readers can identify.

Katherine's first person perspective guides readers through her experiences and secrets as she undergoes the transition from a rural girl to a self-sufficient urban woman.

Katherine seems like a credible narrator who attempts to depict people without bias.

In the first sentence, "My hands were addicted to ink," Katherine asserts her identity. Her stained hands symbolize her determination to learn more about the world regardless of constraints. Her story gradually unfolds as Katherine tells about present events, reminisces about the past...