[Introducing Shirley Braverman] follows Shirley through three main plot lines—involvement in the New York City spelling contest, attempts to strengthen her younger brother's character, and worry about her neighbor, Buddy, who is fighting in Europe. Because no single issue dominates, the story line is weak, although each separate plot does sustain some interest on its own. Characterization is a stronger point: Theodore, Shirley's brother, is especially effective as the child for whom nothing seems to go right, and Shirley's vows to change him have humorously poignant results. Not a particularly strong book as a whole but an entertaining period piece.