This book started out a little slow for me, but I am so glad that I stuck it out as I found a new love and appreciation for the characters as the story developed. Young Allen isn't sure what to do with her life, but knowing that she needs to find a job to satisfy her debts, she lets her mother talk her into becoming a college professor at a small private institution. Her dreams are put on hold as she enters the world of higher education.

Allen is probably one of the youngest faculty members at the junior college where she has been hired. She lets her love of literature lead the way for her life in teaching and even thinks of ways that she could excel in this department. Considering that she isn't much older than some of her students, she finds it easier to build friendships with them rather than her fellow peers. Later in the novel, these friendships will make Allen the subject of an academic witch hunt, giving her the opportunity to re-evaluate her priorities.

As Allen dodges academic failure, she easily falls into a pattern and lifestyle that would benefit anyone striving for a successful teaching career. But will these temporary goals deter her from her true dreams of becoming a writer herself? How can she fulfill her own desires as she struggles through life trying to do something she doesn't truly love?

I enjoyed this novel that also had a nervous edge to it as the U.S. is getting ready to enter World War II. I found the writing beautiful and almost poetic at times, and with themes of war, love, friendship, and dreams, you may want to pick this book up yourself. I don't hesitate in recommending this novel.