I read this book once or twice in junior high school over 30 years ago and still remember it! I looked it up just to see if it happened to be available for my eight year old to one day read. Keep in mind that I am writing this review from rather fuzzy, but happy memories. I recall that it is the inspiring story of a young girl who has lost her family and must make a new life for herself. Her only remaining family is a dour, elderly aunt and uncle who send her to a boarding school near their town. Bethea makes new friends, in particular a young lady from some island country and a young man who admires her strong, determined spirit. I won't spoil the ending, but she does indeed become a true heroine, deserving of the book's title. A great read for junior high girls! Who knows, you may be adding to this review thirty years hence!

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