The Nerviest Girl in the World is one of those entertaining and adorable books one reads for pure pleasure. The main character, Pearl, really does have the pluck and zip that inspires the title. The characterization and voicing in this novel is particularly outstanding and natural; it seems well-suited to an audio version so perhaps someday luck will favor us with that option. The story is simple and a bit nostalgic as it looks at a unique crosshair of time in which traditional ranch life is intersecting with the beginnings of the film industry. Both are interesting.
With just the right amount of peril and a fast read with some complimentary illustrations, this is a strong candidate for reluctant readers and for lighter, escapist summer reading that would appeal to both male and female readers. Enjoy the uncomplicated pleasure of a fun read!
Review of a Digital Advance Review Copy
This book was sent to Compass Book Ratings for review by Random House Children’s Books
Content Analysis:
Profanity/Language: 1 religious exclamation; 1 mild obscenity.
Violence/Gore: Character receives rope burns; gunshots fired but no one injured; character tells how the patent men have been known to destroy equipment; character tells of how her brother killed a rattler by taking its head off with a shovel; adult says his mother died when he was young.
Sex/Nudity: None
Mature Subject Matter:
None
Alcohol / Drug Use:
None
