"[15] Lambda Literary provided a more negative review, stating, "The book is far too raw in its depictions of rape, gunplay, and drug use to sit comfortably in the young-adult section, but it seems destined to shock and thrill younger readers [...] The plot moves at top speed, much like the characters themselves.
"[12] They further indicated that the book's narrative style meant "[readers] miss some of the connective tissue of human idiosyncrasy that lets characters truly move and live.
Publishers Weekly said the novel has "a lot of plot, but it moves quickly," and noted that "Tamar is so relatable and genuine that readers will be invested in her attempts to surmount the challenges that pile up.
[1][5][19] Niagara Motel, published November 1, 2016 by Arsenal Pulp Press, takes place in the early 1990s and follows eleven-year-old Tucker Malone, who lives with his mother, who is narcoleptic and works as a travelling stripper.
"[20] Similarly, Lauren O'Brien, writing for Shelf Awareness, said, "The journey is so wildly inventive it's almost distracting (in the best of ways; go in blind and have Google handy)" and noted, "The strength of Little's characters and dialogue ensure the story never loses its focus or heart.
One day at cheerleading practice, she falls into a coma, which ultimately leads to a Hansen’s disease diagnosis.
"[24] Similarly, Publishers Weekly wrote, "This unusual and inspiring story reminds readers that difficult circumstances can strengthen one’s character.
"[25] Booklist's Beth McIntyre said, "With family secrets, a shocking illness, a treatment-center romance, and a sharp narrative voice, this book is sure to appeal to teen readers.