[Betty Cavanna] has nicely captured the thrill of learning to sail, and the conflict between native Cape Codders and summer residents is amusingly sketched [in The Scarlet Sail]. The minor characters are sharply drawn, especially Mike, Andrea's young sailing instructor, and his wise little sister Hannah. But it is the warm, sympathetic handling of the heroine herself which will make this book a favorite with young readers. (p. 58)