Awards
Selected, ALA Notable Book
Winner, ALA Best Book for Young Adults
Winner, A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
Winner, Publishers Weekly Best Book
Selected, New York Public Library Book for the Teen Age

 “The hero of this unusual and affecting novel about acceptance and belonging is an albino. Harold – people call him Ghost – runs away from home, from the taunts and teasing, from the meanspirited stepfather, and joins the circus passing through his prairie hometown, Liberty. Ghost makes friends with the Cannibal King, himself an albino, and becomes an elephant trainer. Eventually he is brave enough to go home.”
— New York Times Book Review Read

 “Lawrence seamlessly shifts from the open sea (The Wreckers; The Smugglers) to landlubber territory with this tale of an albino boy who runs off to join the circus. Although the novel's premise may be familiar, there is nothing conventional about the author's portrayal of this taunted hero growing up in a post-WWII America. In lyrical prose, the narrative probes the isolation and alienation of 14-year-old Harold, better known as ’Ghost Boy…’ This poignant adventure invites readers to look beyond others' outer appearances and into their souls.”  *Starred Review*
— Publishers Weekly

 “Lawrence's outstanding coming-of-age novel features fascinating, fully rounded characters who drive the story forward while drawing readers in to think about perceptions vs. reality. The setting is wonderfully realized and captures the magic of the big top and the decidedly different world behind the scenes. This touching novel will speak especially to readers who consider themselves different, flawed, or misunderstood.”
— School Library Journal

“Lawrence has worked his magic with what could have been a commonplace story; his prose is near poetry, his characterizations, as usual, fascinating and unique. But it is the ache of Harold’s longing to be a part of something and the gift that these odd circus people offer that sets this coming-of-age road story apart from the average YA novel…Memorable in every way.” *Starred Review*
— Kirkus Reviews