In the beginning . . . at several crossroads, Nellie Joe makes choices that don't always produce the best results. For the most part, she must fend for herself as she travels an unfriendly and dangerous road. At nine years old, she discovers a silent self within her that signals when something feels odd. To her delight and surprise, this new guidance gives her an edge over potential damaging forces in her life. Inquisitive by nature and full of wonderment, Nellie Joe seeks social acceptance without success. When she stumbles and falls and picks herself up time and again, she stoutly maintains...