A Coretta Scott King Author Honor Book
A We Need Diverse Books Walter Dean Myers Honor Book
An ALA Notable Children's Book
An NPR Best Book of the Year
A New York Public Library Best Book of the Year
A Chicago Public Library Best Book of the Year
A Boston Globe Best Book of the Year
A Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year
A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
★"A one-of-a-kind masterpiece of literature. This must-read biography belongs on every library shelf and will redefine the way readers engage with biographical texts."--SLJ, starred review
★"A biography that's as unique in form and content as the groundbreaking sci-fi/fantasy author herself.... Informational and inspirational, this innovative work will draw committed Butler fans and entice those unfamiliar with her work to seek it out."--Horn Book, starred review
★"Zoboi has created a necessary addition to school and public library collections through this memorable look at how writers incorporate their lives into their work."--Booklist, starred review
★"A radiant biography spotlights the life of science fiction great Octavia Butler through a compilation of poetry, prose, quotes and photos."--Shelf Awareness, starred review
★"An inspiring look at the formative years and work of a literary giant that's sure to capture young readers' attention."--Kirkus, starred review
★"This title truly has something for every reader."--SLC, starred review
"Here's a true statement for you: If you live a good life and are true to yourself and persevere, you might, you MIGHT, be lucky enough to get someone like Ibi Zoboi to write your biography for kids."--Betsy Bird, Fuse #8
"Zoboi movingly highlights the importance of empathy in Butler's work and her role as a mentor and source of inspiration for countless other Black creatives."--BookPage
"A fittingly expansive tribute to Butler's visionary mind and the childhood that sowed it."--Publishers Weekly
"Zoboi pairs elegantly crafted poems with direct, informative prose to create an emotionally charged look at a Black woman who changed the literary landscape, writing in a genre dominated by white authors and white characters. [T]his is a compelling blend of artistry and nonfiction that will likely send readers directly to Butler's books."--BCCB