"The depth of emotion will attract early readers. The detailed illustrations are realistically depictive of the city."
     —Kirkus Reviews

"Cheng gracefully articulates the quiet understanding arrived at by mother and son. “Mama folds the pamphlet and uses it like a fan," she writes. “ 'When we do move, some day," asks Aaron gingerly, “ 'do you think we could take a tire... to make a tire swing?’ " “ 'That could be arranged,’ " responds Mama with a hug. At first glance, Condon’s blocky paintings feel wooden in comparison with the emotionally astute prose; even Aaron doesn’t seem quite at home in his environment. But as the story unfolds, the warm colors and mural-like qualities feel absolutely right. It’s a kid’s-eye view of the world, where physical presences offer rock-solid comfort."
     —Publishers Weekly

"This is a beautiful story of a young boy’s determination to remain in the home he loves. The cultural diversity represented in the story through the illustrations symbolizes the ethnicity of city living. The illustrations are beautiful two-page spreads that enhance and clarify the text. This book would be a lovely read-aloud for children and would be a great tie-in for first grade curriculum on communities."
     —Library Media Connection