Queenie Peavy depicts one young woman's turbulent transition from childhood to young adulthood. Most of the townspeople of Cotton Junction view Queenie Peavy as a defiant tomboy, an eighth-grader who chews tobacco and throws rocks. Apathetic and impulsive, Queenie remains in constant trouble with school and town authorities. Queenie's father is imprisoned in the state penitentiary in Atlanta, and Queenie lives with her mother on the outskirts of town. Sadness over her father's imprisonment and anger over the frequent taunting of neighborhood children drive Queenie to frequent violent outbursts. Priding herself on her deadly aim, Queenie throws rocks at birds, squirrels, and buildings.

She plays a prank on the bully Cravey Mason that results in his breaking his leg. Despite this tough exterior, however, Queenie is a bright and kindhearted person. She excels in most of her classes when she is not being kicked...