<p>Recipient of a 1993 Newbery Honor, this novel is an achingly beautiful, powerfully rendered journey through childhood that is not to be missed, now available in a new edition with a striking new cover.</p> <p>“From an outstandingly perceptive writer, a moving portrait of a boy, observed at four revealing turning points.” -- Pointer Review/<i>Kirkus Reviews</i></p> <p>“Combines fast, exciting action with an astonishing ending that proves the power of the individual imagination.” -- Starred Review/ALA <i>Booklist</i></p> "Asa-possessed of rare sweetness, humor, and inner strength-survives intact cruel tests of his integrity, intellect, and sense of decency. From an outstandingly perceptive writer, a moving portrait of a boy, observed at four revealing turning points." -K. "Told with controlled imagery, insightful illumination of motive and the needs of his characters, Brooks has proven himself once again a master of language." -BL. <p>1993 Newbery Honor Book<br /> Notable Children's Books of 1993 (ALA)<br /> 1993 Best Books for Young Adults (ALA)<br /> 1993 Fanfare Honor List (The Horn Book)<br /> 1993 Teachers' Choices (IRA)<br /> 1993 Books for the Teen Age (NY Public Library)</p>