"When his teacher gives an assignment to write about a friend, seven-year-old Moses considers classmates, neighbors, parents, and teachers, before finally deciding on Zaki, his teenage neighbor's iguana, because she is different yet determined, like him. Using a wheelchair due to disabilities including spina bifida, Moses nevertheless participates in all of the classroom activities. Zaki has missing toes, yet has learned to compensate by using her strong front legs to keep up with Hashi, her companion iguana. Bright, bold photographs depict surroundings and experiences from Mose's and Zaki's points of view, with the text appearing on what looks like lined notebook paper at the bottom. Some words appear larger, in unusual places, or in contrasting colors to provide emphasis and interest. The multicultural class, including another child in a wheelchair, is credible and familiar, with scenes occurring on the playground, in the library, and in the classroom. Information following the story provides background about disabilities and iguanas. The message of acceptance, coupled with a matter-of-fact portrayal of a disabled youngster, makes this a good choice for most collections."
--School Library Journal, November 2002