★ “A blisteringly beautiful book” – Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review

★ “exquisitely narrated” – Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

★ “an absorbing novelof love, loss, and resilience – Booklist, Starred Review

★“..stellar…an unforgettable tale” – School Library Journal, Starred Review

★“Hopeful yet heartbreaking…Venkatraman weaves a breathtaking story which takes the reader to the streets of India, where millions of homeless children fight to survive each day… Venkatraman does a beautiful job …showing that a “home” and “family” doesn’t always correspond to a house with a white picket fence…a story that must be shared.” – School Library Connection, Starred Review

★ “moving” – Sound Commentary, Starred Review

★ “Venkatraman brings love, support and humor to a story undergirded by tough issues” – SLJ audio, Starred Review

★ Padma Venkatraman narrates her own work, displaying the depth of feeling and caring between 11-year-old Viji and her 12-year-old intellectually disabled sister, Rukku… In particular, Venkatraman portrays how Viji’s controlling relationship with her sister turns to tenderness and respect … Venkatraman’s Indian accent adds to the tone and setting, but it’s the range and believability of emotions that will draw listeners into Viji’s journey from despair to hope. A great family listen to launch important conversations. – Audiofile Magazine, Starred Review

Honors and Awards to date (a partial list)