While Meyer tells an interesting story in a clearly presented setting, her attention to characterizations and theme seem to be the strongest traits of this novel. This often humorous story contains many problems that wind through several situations on their way to resolutions, and these problems transcend the setting. The setting never takes away from the timelessness of many of the incidents that are presented—conflicts with parents, siblings, and peers; assertion of independence; prejudice; the results of irresponsible sex.

Perhaps the ideas of conflict with siblings and asserting independence can be summarized in Teddie's description of her sister, Hannah, early on in the book: "My sister strongly disapproved of my plans to be an aviatrix. If for some reason a woman could not find a husband or was widowed or struck by some other disaster, then she should be a nurse or teach young...