Carter's eleven novels are praised for their realism, vivid characterization, and the courage displayed by their protagonists in the face of both external and internal obstacles. "I find myself constantly impressed with their courage. Despite all the problems -- both traditional and recently invented -- that fill the teenage years, the vast majority not only survive, but triumph," Carter said [https://web.archive.org/web/20090519172351/http://www.wla.lib.wi.us/readers/WLAC/Notable/Notable2002.htm]. His protagonists have faced such disparate conflicts as alcoholism ("Up Country"), racial and identity confusion ("Dogwolf"), and diabetes ("Between a Rock and Hard Place") often emerging with a newfound maturity and confidence.