The wild west is a rough place. In case it wasn't obvious already, Maude and her little sister Sallie are sure to figure it out when their aunt is accidentally shot and they have to escape their cruel guardians. With their only help the dubious advice from Sallie's dime novels, they head out to try to find their uncle, their only living (if he hasn't gotten himself killed yet) relative. But who exactly is Joe Hardin, the mysterious cowboy (and possible criminal) they encounter on the way? And why does everyone blame prim and proper Maude for that bank robbery?
Eleven (or possibly twelve or ten) year-old Sallie is the narrator of the book, but it's really fifteen-year-old Maude's story. Like most little sisters, Sallie isn't always clear about what's going on with her older sibling. In particular, she's not quick to pick up on the early hints of Maude's romance - but you will be, and you'll be cheering it on. Pick this one up if you want your adventure with plenty of humor and a little romance.
Reviewed by Anne Bonney
Capn Anne Bonney, editor of HMS Libris, lives with her husband, Calico Jack, and their crew of stalwart cats in the great state of Texas. Unlike the real Anne Bonney and Calico Jack, they are not wanted by the authorities. Capn Anne works in a library and goes to graduate school. Her current favorite videogame is Mario Kart.