"Pasternack’s debut is an irresistible blend of moral quandaries, magic, humor, danger, and bravery. Imaginative details bestow a fairy-tale-like quality to the story, which will effortlessly ensnare historical fantasy fans." - Booklist
"[T]ruly likable characters in [an] original setting. This delightful series opener is an exciting blend of Russian and Jewish traditions." - Kirkus Reviews
"A strong heroine and an unusual setting make this worth adding to most crowded fantasy shelves." —School Library Journal "Pasternack eagerly depicts life in an tenth-century Russian village imbued with magic and folklore, riddled with many references to Anya’s family’s religion, their Jewish traditions, and the discrimination they face. The plot keeps readers on their toes with skillful pacing....Jewish readers may find kindred spirits in Anya’s culture, and fans of a Russian setting won’t be disappointed by this immersive novel that ends in justice." - Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
"With this clever, fast-paced debut, Pasternack draws upon the myth and folklore of Kievan Rus’ to deliver a delightful tale.…that never loses its sense of fun or wonder.” - Publishers Weekly
"Fresh, funny, sometimes scary, and always magical." - Adam Gidwitz, author of the Newbery Honoree The Inquisitor's Tale
"A delicious read!" - Catherine Murdock, author of the Newbery Honoree The Book of Boy