★ “This stunning portrayal of the circuitous path of trauma and healing teems with compassion, empathy, and the triumph of resilience.” — Booklist (starred review)

★ “Carter delicately draws readers into the lives of a group of people overcoming obstacles as they learn how to become a family. The novel’s heart belongs to the relationship among Emily, Flora, and Julian as they learn how to trust and to meet one another’s needs.” — School Library Journal (starred review)

★ “Carter’s sophomore novel gently weaves the heartache and confusion of abandonment with the struggle for love and acceptance. Poetic and meditative, this emotionally enthralling novel undresses assumptions with purpose and hope.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

“Complex and well-rounded characters. Authentic.” — The Horn Book

“This nuanced novel highlights the struggle to trust an adoptive family after a traumatic history in foster care.Carter’s layered narrative doesn’t shy from pain as it testifies to resilience and the expansive power of love.” — Publishers Weekly

“Flora’s narration is deftly turned. The portrayal of kids whose lives have genuinely impaired them has grit and honesty as well as warmth, and it will open many readers’ eyes to the impact of trauma.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books