"Gerstein interprets Rousseau's painting style both faithfully and freely, and his story suggests that there's nothing inevitable about the famous works of art we think we know."--Publishers Weekly

"This is a splendid springboard for prediction and interpretation of the painting itself and for engaging children with other cryptic works that beg to have a backstory supplied."--The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"In reproducing the artist's dream, Gerstein evokes the same surrealistic nature of the painting, but his pesky animals lighten the tone . . . this title offers children a story and information about an important Western artist and his work."--School Library Journal