Odd Man Out

Quirky characters and a solid plot make for an engaging read. Book Links

Ellis creates with splendid and inviting detail a chaotic houseful of happy relatives who treat the old house as a big toy because of its forthcoming demolition...this is a determinedly individual and warmly affectionate family story about a boy who finds strength in new understanding of both the present and the past. Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Ellis...offers an insightful character study in this novel....the themes of growing up, accepting change, and finding out where one belongs make it a universally appealing work that teens will enjoy... VOYA (Voice of Youth Advocates)

Ellis's language is restrained but rich, and she brings readers directly into Kip's world, never wavering from his sensitive point of view; and Kip's gradual understanding of his father's mental illness is affecting. The characterization is vivid... Horn Book

Ellis's restrained but rich language and vivid characterizations bring readers directly into Kip's world. Horn Book

Kip...is an engaging protagonist, and his search for the truth is suspenseful enough to hold readers' attention. Booklist

Odd Man Out is a mystery novel full of thoughtfulness and humour. Teaching Tolerance

Odd Man Out is beautifully written: clever, funny, and hauntingly sad. Ellis has a sure hand at dialogue, bringing to life each cousin's eccentricity and Gran's warmth. Vancouver Sun

The strength of this novel rests not only in the intriguing plot, but also with Ellis's amazing ability to bring her characters to life....all of the characters stay alive in the readers mind far after the book is finished. Resource Links

This is a thoughtful and often funny book of a boy on the verge of adolescence challenged to think...in a different way. School Library Journal

This is another superb novel by Sarah Ellis. Odd Man Out is a multifaceted story of imagination, suspense, family, fun, and even fear...without a doubt, Odd Man Out deserves a spot on every library and classroom shelf. Highly recommended. CM Magazine