About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when their teenage daughter is struggling to balance societal expectations with her own emerging intellectual identity. It is perfect for the girl who feels like a 'round peg in a square hole' within her social circle or family. Set in the Gilded Age of Bar Harbor, Maine, the story follows Lucy, a minister's daughter whose mother is obsessed with finding her a wealthy suitor. However, Lucy is captivated by the rigorous world of ship-building and the scientific wonders of the ocean. This historical coming-of-age novel explores the tension between duty and passion. It is developmentally appropriate for ages 12 and up, offering a sophisticated look at how young women throughout history have fought for the right to define their own futures beyond the marriage market. Parents will appreciate the way it validates a girl's interest in STEM and craftsmanship over vanity and social climbing.
