“[Luthardt’s] amusement-park palette and boldly geometric acrylics pop with energy…it’s a triumph that youngsters won’t mind reliving several times over.”  ―Publishers Weekly

“The text, which consists of brief rhyming couplets, successfully carries the action. Luthardt’s quirky acrylic cartoons make effective use of bright colors and crisp lines and should have substantial child appeal….the story could be an effective discussion starter for overcoming fears.” ―School Library Journal

“This far-out lesson in making friends understands that to the new kid in school, everyone is going to seem scary and weird.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“This is a sweet picture book with simple, straightforward text, and the vibrant, cartoonlike acrylic images will appeal to young readers, one-on-one or in a group.” ―School Library Journal

“Bright and zany illustrations add an additional fun dimension to a scary situation. The outlandish illustrations show that looking different is a two way street and that meeting new people can be quite entertaining.” ―Boys and Literacy

“Kids, big and little, and especially those that have had to go to a new school, will love Edgar Met Cecil. Kids that had to move to a new town, even if not on a new planet, will also enjoy Edgar Met Cecil. Friendship is good, and if a robot and an alien came become friends, then so can a new kid.” ―Kid Lit

“This is a great book about friendship and first impressions. We’ve all been there: the new place – do we fit in, and those kids…they are so different from me. It’s about letting go of preconceived notions and, in a subtle way, diversity. And the illustrations are so fun.” ―Sally’s Bookshelf

“Luthardt takes an issue that can be a big one for children, puts a twist on it, and turns it into a delightful read for parents and children.” ―Tolivers to Texas

“[Luthardt] invests every scene with a visual and emotional depth that draws in the audience.” ―Publishers Weekly

“The flat, full-bleed illustrations have well-defined lines, and the art conveys a lot of feeling in its simplicity. The somber colors suit the tale, which is both bittersweet and heartwarming.” ―School Library Journal

“Luthardt does a lot with a little in this delightful book starring a little duck.” ―Booklist

“The book’s strength is the directness and speed with which art and minimal text tell the story. Pastel and mixed-media illustrations are on colored paper, which imparts warmth and a pleasing texture.” ―The Horn Book Magazine

“This book is a bright introduction to the pleasures of a picture book.” ―A Page in a Book

“Luthardt sends his direct storytelling out with gentle, happy illustrations, enclosing characteristic emotional content in the package… This is a colorful, seamless blend of simple sentiment mixed with happy intent putting a stamp on why we should continue to use the post office for more than just junk mail.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“The unusual art (nicely sized for small-group sharing), and the idea of wishes fulfilled can’t help but leave little ones with a warm, happy feeling themselves.” ―Booklist

“The gouache and acrylic pictures-of round-headed characters, blocky houses and green shrubbery-keep the simple message at the forefront, and Lacey’s unadorned card demonstrates how anyone can make a small, thoughtful gesture to a friend.” ―Publishers Weekly

“Whimsical characters in vibrant colors fill the artwork… This fun read-aloud will charm children.” ―School Library Journal