"In her insightful narrative and handsome cut-paper-and-collage artwork, Falwell subtly conveys the importance of both teamwork and independence." -- Publishers Weekly

"The cut-paper-and-fabric collages are a good choice for the story. Their dimension brings alive the multiethnic classroom of smiling, engaging kids. Each spread shows the picture David has drawn, and children will enjoy watching the work grow more intricate as things are added. Both theme and execution make this a fine choice for classroom read-alouds: listeners may want to talk about the story's themes and make their own class picture." -- Booklist

"This story has the gentleness of a lullaby, but it also has the qualities of a real-life encounter, one that could well ease the process of making a home in a new school." -- Kirkus Reviews

"In this gentle and appealing story, a boy figures out how to stay true to his own artistic vision while allowing his friends to express their own creativity." -- School Library Journal

Best Children's Books of the Year - Bank Street College of Education
CCBC Choices - Cooperative Children's Book Center (CCBC)