“With a deft hand, Johnson shows us there’s no such thing as “too young” when it comes to questioning big ideas like manhood, or even family.”
–Jason Reynolds, New York Times bestselling author of Look Both Ways and Stamped
An ALA Notable Children’s Book Selection
An ALA Notable Children’s Recordings Selection
A Publishers Weekly Best Book of 2021
A Kirkus Reviews Best Book of 2021
A Booklist Editors’ Choice of 2021
Recipient of starred reviews from Kirkus Reviews, Booklist, Publishers Weekly, and School Library Journal
“Reading a well-written book is akin to watching an acrobat on a tightrope. And Varian Johnson is the best of acrobats―he’s made the task look effortless with an air of compassion, tenderness, humor, and a dab of magic realism.”
– Christopher Paul Curtis, Newbery Award-winning author of BUD, Not BUDDY and The Watsons Go to Birmingham—1963
More From Varian Johnson
Coretta Scott King Author Honor winner
Boston Globe / Horn Book Honor winner
“A candid and powerful reckoning of history.” — Kirkus Reviews, starred review
“Powerful…. any reader with a taste for mystery will appreciate the puzzle Candice and Brandon must solve.”— The New York Times Book Review
BCALA Youth Literacy Award Winner
Eisner Award Nominee
“A beautiful reflection on sisterhood and coming of age that belongs in every collection.” — Booklist, starred review
“Has all the hallmarks of the kind of books that become timeless classics.” — Nerdist
Kirkus Reviews Best Book
ALA Notable Children’s Book
“Do yourself a favor and start reading immediately.” — REBECCA STEAD, Newbery-winning author of When You Reach Me and Liar & Spy
Kids’ Indie Next List pick
“A satisfying stand-alone sequel; new readers and old friends will be hoping for further adventures.” — Kirkus Reviews, Starred
An “adventure that surprises, delights and expands the possibilities of the caper mystery.” — The Washington Post