"The story dramatizes that 'normal' is neither static nor uniform.it's the variety of religions, family values, languages, ethnic customs, and individual personalities that vitalizes the neighborhood.  Readers will enjoy the irreverent fun." --Booklist "The dialogue and characterizations combine flawlessly to give Seth a loud, clear voice; through him, readers come to know Samona, who is a special person indeed." --School Library Journal Winner of the Second Annual Marguerite de Angeli Prize for Middle Grade novel.