"The Sweetheart of Prosper Country" is a touching story about a young girl who overcomes emotional struggles. Austin Gray is a fifteen year old girl who resolves to be the Sweetheart of Prosper County so she can be the center of the annual parade in her small town. She joins the Future Farmers of America, raises a rooster named Charles Dickens, and tries to get over the death of her father that occurred a few years before. Austin resolves to prove her town and the stuck up boys and girls her age that she is worth something. This inspiring message is well suited for young girls around Austins age. She overcomes struggles on her life on her own, using only her determination and free spirit. Having to take care of her own mothers emotionally stunted state and the always annoying rooster she has taken in as her own shows Austin that she can grow up, be responsible, and work hard to earn what she wants. She remembers the good times she had with her father while he was alive and strives to do what might have made him proud if he were still there. This book is a great example of how young people can shape their own destinies and conquer any obstacle in their path.