Despite these honors, the ALA's Office for Intellectual Freedom has indicated that Tyrell has been frequently banned and challenged in the United States.

[2] On behalf of Booklist, Hazel Rochman described Tyrell as "heartbreakingly realistic", though noted "there are some plot contrivances".

[1] Kirkus Reviews highlighting that Booth "clearly understands how teens living on the edge—in shelters, in projects, on the street—live, talk and survive".

Publishers Weekly noted that "Tyrell's frank talk about sex may be offensive for some readers, but only adds to his character's credibility".

[8] Despite these honors, the ALA's Office for Intellectual Freedom has indicated that Tyrell has been frequently banned and challenged in the United States.