"Young readers will appreciate the large type, repeated words, and relatively simple vocabulary. These qualities, along with the easy-to-read narrative illustrations and emotionally resonant story, make the book equally effective as a read-aloud choice for younger children."—Booklist
 
"Sam will strike home with little brothers and sisters everywhere who always get left out when the 'big kids' are playing."—School Library Journal
 
"Readers will appreciate the impressive geographic features of McCully's (The Helpful Puppy) ink-and-watercolor renderings, and her approach to emotions"—Publishers Weekly