Booklist, in its review of The Clone Codes, wrote "The McKissacks' slight story for younger readers packs a great deal of messaging, which will no doubt prove useful in classroom discussions of issues and themes but sometimes comes at the expense of the story.

The science-fiction backdrop serves as a framework for issues of identity and societal prejudice but is not predominant in the reading experience.

"[1] School Library Journal's review was more critical, calling it "A clunky, didactic science-fiction allegory."

and wrote "Some aspects of the plot are predictable and poorly drawn .. too many references to the distant past .. prevent the futuristic setting from coming to life."

Nevertheless, it did conclude "Still, the fast pace, short chapters, and slim page count will make this volume attractive to reluctant readers, and the obvious curriculum tie-ins will appeal to teachers.