Even at not-quite-twelve, Venola Mae Cutright is a natural writer. And pen pal extraordinaire. In letters grumbling to the advertisers of flea circuses, letters to her summer employer at The Elkins Exponent, to her best friend Sally, away at camp, to Abigail Van Buren, and, in high dudgeon, to "Dear Abby's Bosses", Venola Mae's voice rings distinct and forthright and funny. She has a keen eye for justice -- and a true heart for friendship, not only with Sally but with the memorable Miss Wilma, who is just the lovely sort to understand and value Venola Mae. Readers will too.