Everyone knows that Anna Trent is a woman of worth. Everyone except Anna, that is. The oldest child in a farming family, Anna feels fortunate to have received an education. She loved school, loved to learn, loved the excitement of discovery. But now, as she graduates at age sixteen, it looks like all that is over. Then Austin Barker comes to town to fill the pastorate for the summer months. The young seminarian is captured by Anna's intense desire to learn. Through his books and correspondence, Anna's education continues to expand, and the sweet country girl grows into a lovely young woman. Still, Anna is shocked when Austin asks her to marry him. Why would he choose her? If only her feelings of inadequacy and self-consciousness would go away . . .