★ “[Choldenko’s] knowing, understated storytelling and Santat’s warm, expressive spreads give full credence to the fears that weigh on kids, as well as the presences—both real and imagined—that can help alleviate them.”—Kirkus, starred review
★ “Intertwined with the themes of fear and bravery is a strong father-son relationship [. . . .] Teachers, librarians, and parents will find the book provides an opening for discussion about fears, security, and how their dads have loved and helped them.”—School Library Connection, starred review
“Choldenko excels in creating believable characters whose empathy and emotional quotients match their other successes. . . This works as a story about bravery, as well as a paean to dads.” —Booklist
“A winning book sure to attract and delight a wide audience. . . This is a modern story reminiscent of Dumbo and his ‘magic’ feather that readers will enjoy as they explore the ideas of bravery, ability, and what lies inside each of us. ” —School Library Journal
“With the rediscovery of Nick’s dino, his bravery returns as well, only this time, Nick isn’t the only one who knows his secret, and he knows deep down that all guys are afraid sometimes [. . . .] Dads get it: being brave takes work . . . and a dinosaur.” —Publishers Weekly
“[T]he boy-friendliness of Choldenko’s text is matched by Santat’s robust paintings that give the tiny toy dinosaur life—and heft!—as he appears super-dino-style on the scene as needed. And while Dad is a reliable, strong presence, what we don’t see is Dad’s face (except for his beard), allowing young readers to imagine whatever father figure they need in his features.”—Horn Book Reviews
