"English employs the simplest of language in perfect evocation of the children's thoughts, confusions, small hopes, and large dreams...[Bates] enhances each poem with a beautifully powerful illustration, capturing every mood, every feeling...Just wonderful." Starred, Kirkus Reviews
"English's rich descriptions and insights bring readers into the world of six inner-city third-grade students . . . Teachers could easily use the book to discuss voice and perspective. With its uncluttered and inviting design, this title will have strong appeal." --Starred, School Library Journal
"The poems are written in a colloquial voice that will speak directly to many kids, and Bates' warm, realistic watercolors...create strong character portraits to match the poems' voices. Teachers will want to share this with students to show how everyday language and familiar experiences can become poetry." -- Booklist
