Historical novel about 17-year-old Joe Kuan - a Chinese woman who lives in Atlanta. She was born in America, but cannot become a full-fledged citizen of her country. She works as a maid for a wealthy family, and lives in a basement under the editorship of a local newspaper. Soon, Joe learns that the newspaper may close - and the girl will lose her room. She throws a letter in the newspaper mailbox with an idea for a new column and begins to write an anonymous column of advice for noble ladies. Suddenly, Joe's column becomes popular and attracts new readers.