“The smooth third-person narration moves back and forth between Griffin and Fi. They are both resilient, self-reliant, and determined; readers will cheer them on until the end. Action is well-paced, making for a fast read that ends too soon. . . . The cliffhanger ending leaves the portal open for a sequel; with luck, readers won't have to wait long for Book 2.”

– Kirkus Reviews

“Each world is distinctly magical—including one with literal dream clouds, one where flora and humans are deeply interwoven, one with the unique ability to create glass wonders—and Crowder uses vivid sensory descriptions as well as striking metaphors to make the worlds come alive in novel ways.”

– BCCB

"Readers fascinated by the idea of other worlds will be hooked by this adventure, which, complete with a missing scientist parent, is similar to A Wrinkle in Time. . . . With sharp world building and constant action, Crowder has wrought an auspicious start to what will clearly be a fascinating series."

– Booklist