Tori discovers adventure in the novel’s taut, suspenseful narrative, and self-determination in the final scene, which leaves readers’ spirits as full as the sails on the little boat that carries her toward the future. A first purchase for all middle grade libraries.
A thoughtful picture book for older elementary children that could be used in a history lesson covering Jewish families during World War II, and for readers with a love of history and war stories.
Hand this fast-paced, accessible tale to fans of Avi's other historical fiction titles or to readers who enjoy stories set during medieval times.—Anne Bosievich, Friendship Elementary School, Glen Rock, PA
Avi has written a compelling and tautly constructed book that is a portal to grappling with the complexity of the human instinct to compete. Highly recommended.
An interesting slice of history told by an engaging and believable protagonist. Hand to fans of the author, young Tudor enthusiasts, and readers who enjoy medieval-set fiction.
School and public libraries should consider adding to their collections. ["Though short stories can be a hard sell in a library setting, readers who take a chance on this collection will be rewarded": SLJ 3/16 review of the Candlewick book.]
Hand this spine-tingling and occasionally grotesque work to readers who have embraced Ransom Riggs's Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children and Cornelia Funke's Ghost Knight.