"Nothing is...predictable...April's coming-of-age...is poignant, realistic, and somber, and reflective of the strength April has found within." Horn Book, Starred
"Ray's loving attention to setting, character, and detail makes this debut special...based on real events and a real teacher." KIRKUS REVIEWS, starred review Kirkus Reviews, Starred
"Ray sensitively captures the atmospheric flavor...treat[s] her characters as real, complex people...A warm but not sentimental coming-of-age story." THE BULLETIN OF THE CENTER FOR CHILDREN'S BOOKS The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
"excellent portrayal...rises to the top....seamlessly incorporates historical facts into the narrative...engaging character...first-rate purchase for all libraries." SCHOOL LIBRARY JOUNRAL, STARRED REVIEW School Library Journal, Starred
"fascinating historical detail...will haunt readers, especially since there's no patched-on happy solution to the poverty, anger and sorrow." BOOKLIST Booklist, ALA -
