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Review excerpts
(Also see Amazon customer reviews)
Included in the NY Public Library "Books for the Teen Age, 2007
American Booksellers Association Winter 2007/2008 Children's Book Sense Pick
"Smith's first novel, a fantasy-adventure with modern fairy-tale flair, features a richly detailed, enchanted backdrop and colorful characters, including deal-maker Death, winged barge-driver Rose, and a creatively attired, vengeful witch. Beatriz's thoughts add intimacy to the lively narrative, which incorporates humor, wry commentary, and nods to classic tales. An appealing protagonist, Beatriz perseveres as she faces challenges and situations, both familiar and fantastical. This entertaining read has creative characters and a story line that will keep readers engaged."—ALA Booklist
"I was expecting an average fantasy book. This one is extraordinary.... The journey of one normal girl through a host of hilariously harrowing adventures will fascinate you through its humor, imagery, character, and details."—Stone Soup
"The surreal and slightly gritty world is compelling in its humor. This debut charms."—Kirkus Reviews
"Beatriz's confusion and determination are realistically drawn, and the conclusion will surprise even alert readers. Smith's humor and unique characters, including a sinister but helpful Death, add to this strong first novel."—Horn Book Guide
"Beatriz is an appealing protagonist who relies on her own snark, cunning, and acuity more than the second-hand magic that surrounds her. Readers may therefore cheer her successes, and savvy fantasy fans will enjoy spotting the literary allusions sprinkled throughout the novel."—Bulletin of the Center for Children's Literature
"Smith's prose is so vivid and evocative that one might believe that the book is illustrated. He weaves humor and literary allusions smoothly into his narrative, and while understanding the allusions is not necessary to appreciate the story, they do add another dimension to the plot for those who get them. Beatriz's quest is purposeful; Smith's plot is tight and compelling. In a refreshing departure from most fantasy quests, Smith touches on the realities of traveling without benefit of a shower, washing machine or extra underwear. Beatriz is a splendid character. She is smart, resourceful, a little stubborn and single-minded. Beatriz is believable and retains the reader's sympathy. The ensemble of other characters is equally interesting and well developed, and Smith's engaging debut is a delight from start to finish."—KLIATT
"Recommended for readers who enjoy struggle, survival, and independence, it is not recommended for readers who may have lost a parent or have been abandoned."—Children's Literature
"This unique fantasy cleverly incorporates elements from other stories such as the Wizard of Oz. The very imaginative plot has enough twists and turns to keep a fantasy lover going. It is a different world with just enough similarities to be confusing."—PSLA
"In this suspense-filled novel, enchantments, sinister beings and the crazy witch who masterminds the evil all do battle with a determined protagonist. San Francisco author Smith's highly imaginative debut novel is written with flair." —Contra Costa (CA) Times
"Excellent fantasy of a girl's journey to find family. Leisure readers who loved O'Brien's classic THE SILVER CROWN will find much to love here."—Midwest Book Review
"Reminiscent of The Wizard of Oz, this adventure leads readers through a fantastical land where the one hope of our protagonist is to be home with the people she loves. The journey is a learning experience for Beatriz and the knowledge gained is love. This novel is full of literary allusions, wordplay and humor and readers young and old will appreciate the book's rich use of words."—SW Ohio Young Adult Materials Review Group
