Ludelphi lives in tiny Gee's Bend, Alabama, an area isolated by the river. The year is 1932. She leaves to find a doctor to treat her mother who almost dies in childbirth. As she crosses the river on a ferry by herself, it breaks loose and she is carried downstream. This sets up the story for her to have many adventures getting to town to find the doctor. Gee's Bend is known for quilts so Ludelphia quilts by hand patching together bits of cloth she finds along the way. She is a memorable character that readers will love for her adventurous spirit and sense of survival. the plot moves along and the times are portrayed realistically. Recommended for middle school libraries.