★ “This nuanced look at mental health challenges and the bittersweet exhilaration of being vulnerable packs emotional wallops in spades. Profoundly, sincerely heartfelt.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
★ “A poignant novel about male friendship and mental health.” —School Library Journal, starred review
★ “Arango ingeniously uses the park’s landscape to beautifully explore the interior lives of two middle grade boys with anxiety and depression, offering invaluable hope and resources for young readers to ponder and explore.” —BookPage, starred review
★ “Mystical….Andrea Beatriz Arango thoughtfully and astutely portrays the challenges of addressing anxiety and depression in a culture that favors toughness over sensitivity.” —Shelf Awareness, starred review
“Attentively rendered characterizations enrich this moving tale of friendship and mental health awareness.” —Publishers Weekly
“Thoughtful explorations of anxiety, machismo, and growing independence give Gustavo’s journey warmth and emotional resonance.” —Booklist
“Arango addresses her desire to shine a light on mental health struggles in the Latinx community….the setting and story are captivating.” —The Bulletin
“Arango skillfully depicts the experiences of anxiety….the novel demonstrates the impact machismo culture has on boys and how it can disregard their feelings; it also shows the value of giving people space to reflect and grow.” —The Horn Book
