The Girl Death Left Behind

March 1, 1999
Gr 6-9-Fourteen-year-old Beth must face adult-sized dilemmas when a car accident claims the lives of her immediate family. Within a few hours, she faces a new family, new house, and a new school. Living with her spoiled cousin only adds to her despair. This story charts the efforts of Beth's caring Aunt Camille and Uncle Jack as they help her through the worst time of her life. Always on the brink of tears, Beth finds the strength of character to make new friends and touch the lives of those around her. Readers familiar with McDaniel's writing will be satisfied with the heart-tugging plot. Those who find tears welling up will be thankful for the periods of built-in respite. The writing, infused with imagery and nuance, lends an air of sophistication to the formulaic story line.-Lisa Denton, J. S. Russell JHS, Lawrenceville, VA