Holland builds clues into [Now Is Not Too Late], structuring it deftly so that Cathy's discovery that the artist [for whom she has been posing] is her mother … will come as no surprise to the reader. Because Holland writes with polish and perception, the crux of the story is not that the discovery is made but how Cathy will react, for her emotions and especially her feelings about those she loves have been explored deeply. Running throughout the book are some wonderfully intelligent conversations with Granny (a fine character) who helps Cathy see that it is possible to compromise with life and still maintain principles and dignity….

Zena Sutherland, "New Titles for Children and Young People: 'Now Is Not Too Late'," in Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (reprinted by permission of The University of Chicago Press; © 1980 by the University of Chicago), Vol. 33, No. 7, March, 1980, p. 135.