"Tanya Williams's Stealing Mr. Smith is a thought-provoking story about a sad and determined little girl that has to face the realities of life at the tender age of 10 years old. The story takes us inside an orphanage where Bernice and Patty find themselves after their mother dies and it is interesting to note how differently the two girls react to their new situation. Tanya Williams has a great knack for story development as she navigates her readers between Patty's and Bernice's perspectives and it is very effective in giving us a full grasp of the story. And as Bernice sets out to steal Mr. Smith, one may even feel sympathy for the woman determined to find the love and security that has been denied her all her life. This is a novel that makes you think about relationships."

"Stealing Mr. Smith is written in the first person, switching from Bernice to her younger sister, Patricia. Tanya Williams displays a dual perspective of Bernice's behavior and the effect her negative attitude has on those around her, giving a more accurate view of her personality. I found this novel interesting as Williams shows two sisters with the same background growing up completely differently, revealing that the outcome coincides with the outlook one has on life. Though I would like to judge Bernice for the poor choices she made with men, the author makes me question my own path were I in her shoes. The history Williams put within these pages made this time period come alive. It was thrilling that she centered her story around Sioux Falls, as this is a beautiful oasis among corn fields and soy bean farms."