This novel will definitely interest teenage readers who are eager to know more about the wider world, particularly if their curiosity about Egypt has been piqued by recent events

Anna Perera's book is written for teenagers, but like her previous work, the bestselling Guantánamo Boy, it will charm older readers too. Cairo pulses from its pages, dirty, smelly but intoxicating; 'the magic's everywhere.' The tale sparkles like the glass Aaron hoards, light and delicate and full of dreams

This novel comes highly recommended for thoughtful older readers. It might even be life-changing for some. I would expect it on awards shortlists in the future

A powerful rendering of human struggle, resilience, and hope

[An] enjoyably meaty read . . . Newbery writes wonderfully

Jacqueline Wilson has a distinctive narrative style with her spunky and articulate young heroines . . . A funny, punchy and quite moving read

Two worlds conflate in this evocative and moving novel about the healing power of memory.

Geras conveys well the difficulties of relating to a colonial community and being the new child...

This is a substantial novel suitable for readers of 13+

Bright and very descriptive . . .this book will stay with you forever

It has a slightly slow start but soon you will be glued to the covers

Short review