"Mann delivers a stellar, historically accurate novel, inspired by real members of the 1930s Black Charlottesville community of Vinegar Hill. Short chapters keep up the pace as Allie navigates intertwined relationships, familial expectations, classism, and race. This outstanding, funny novel is a welcome addition to the historical fiction genre focused on BIPOC in the U.S. and should be perfect for fans of Ways to Make Sunshine by Renée Watson."
Shelf Awareness Starred Review
"Allie is a likable character, and her humorous first-person narration, including detailed descriptions of her community, reflects her intense emotional highs and lows. Back matter includes an author’s note about the history of Vinegar Hill, lists of related books and films, and a link to a recipe for chicken and dumplings.
Horn Book
"...a simply told, heartening story of a girl facing ethical dilemmas and achieving what had once seemed to be impossible." Booklist
"To me it’s the perfect kids historical fiction: highlighting a unique time and place in history unknown to most readers... This book was funny, sweet, and meaningful....a winner and I think any kiddo would not only get an important introduction to life of African Americans in the 1930’s, I think they would enjoy learning it.."
Nicole Miller, Goodreads Reviewer
"This was a really solid read.... A well-written debut that's not to be missed."
Teen Librarian Toolbox
"[A] sweet tale...[with an] amiable cast."
Publishers Weekly
"This book is short (208 pages), FUNNY, charming, and historically enlightening without being full of Black pain."
Reading Middle Grade
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