The Girl from Arizona

by Nina Rhoades

"The Girl from Arizona" by Nina Rhoades is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Marjorie, a fourteen-year-old girl living on a ranch in Arizona who faces the disappointment of not being able to attend school due to financial difficulties. Throughout the narrative, themes of longing for education and new experiences are explored, as Marjorie grapples with feelings of isolation and the desire for friendship and adventure. The introduction also hints at the arrival of a mysterious girl named Undine, who complicates Marjorie's life further. The opening of the book sets the stage for Marjorie's life on the ranch, showcasing her relationship with her aunt, Miss Graham, who is wheelchair-bound, and her struggles with her current lack of education compared to her peers. Marjorie's emotional turmoil is captured in her heartfelt confession to her aunt, revealing her dreams of a broader world that lies beyond the barren landscape of Arizona. As Marjorie begins to engage with her surroundings, she encounters Undine, a girl without memories of her past who arrives unexpectedly from a train. This initial interaction suggests a deepening exploration of identity, friendship, and the intertwining of their fates, all while Marjorie prepares for the possibility of a life-changing journey.