The Daredevil

"The Daredevil" by Maria Thompson Daviess is a story about a brave young woman named Roberta, or Bye, who leaves France for America after a war. The book explores what it means to find yourself, be brave, and the changing place of women in the world at the turn of the century. Roberta says goodbye to her sick father and promises to take care of her brother, Pierre. On the boat to America, she meets Captain Count de Lasselles, who teaches her about being strong. Once in America, she has to deal with her estranged uncle and what society expects from women, which makes it difficult for her to be independent. The beginning of the story shows Roberta's strength and hints at how she will change and grow as she faces challenges.