The story of Calpurnia Tate is relatable to anyone who is or was a bright young girl who was told she had to fit into a box. The year the book takes place in is 1899, but it very well could take place in 1999 or 2019 since gender still dictates what women and girls "can" and "cannot" do. Calpurnia wants to be a scientist. She wants to explore and ask questions and learn. She doesn't get the opportunity to do so at school, but she does when she decides to team up with her eccentric grandfather one summer. They grow quite close, and he takes the time to foster her interest in the natural world around them on the family farm. Meanwhile, her mother wants her to be a "proper lady," which Calpurnia tries and fails to be. Ultimately, being true to herself is what makes Calpurnia the happiest.