However, The Stage liked that the book expressed "the mother’s dialogue solely in musical phrases and the giant school satchel which Rink uses to hide his blushes - and his petunias." Booklist praised the book, calling it an "odd, lovely offering". Publishers Weekly positively reviewed the book, citing "If the narrative doesn't follow through on its early promise of helping young readers understand the beauty of being different, it will remind them of the power of kindness."
However, The Stage appreciated that the book conveyed "the mother’s dialogue solely in musical phrases and the giant school satchel which Rink uses to hide his blushes - and his petunias." Booklist praised the book, describing it as "odd" yet "lovely". Publishers Weekly also gave a positive review, highlighting the importance of kindness.