<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> <awards> 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)</awards></p>