The reviewer for 'School Library Journal' said of this work, "Nearly cast into the sea at birth because his mother died and he is misshapen, young Eemook, lowly spoonmaker for the Sea Cliff People, achieves manhood by piercing the veil of enchantment laid upon his tribe by an evil and powerful spirit. . .Kesey's text is rhythmic and powerful, while Waldman's artwork enhances the sinewy strength of the narrative."