"The two children balance fear with bravery. . .Heartfelt and accessible." --Kirkus Reviews

"This friendship story is sweet and savory, with memorable main characters in Walter, Posey, and Banjo and a story elegant in its simplicity." --Booklist

"The technical details of retrieving, repairing, launching, and piloting a hot-air balloon add flavor and expand the audience for this feel-good friendship story, and Walter's balloon ride satisfyingly fulfills Tank's dream-given promise of a new perspective on his familiar world." --The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"O'Connor's characters are vividly portrayed, especially Walter, whose insight illustrates his grief. . .Banjo and Posey's antics provide levity, and the quest to save Banjo's balloon propels the plot forward, resulting in a feel-good novel. reminiscent of Moon Over Manifest." --Publishers Weekly

"With its fast pace, liberal use of Southern idioms, one bodacious adventure, and memorable characters, this book has read-aloud written all over it." --The Horn Book