‘The Sparrows of Edward Street is one of those rare books that make you look at the world differently.’ Daily Telegraph
‘This vibrantly written novel invokes a memorable cast of characters as it catches the pathos and humour of a neglected chapter from Sydney's history.’ Sunday Canberra Times
‘This uplifting novel is destined to become an Australian classic.’ Sunday Territorian
‘Even with her firsthand knowledge of the Sparrows’ plight, Stead writes with her customary humour and lightness of touch, The Sparrows of Edward Street has a refreshingly Australian point of view expressed through the protagonist’s cocksure attitude. The novel pays homage to naïveté. It traces a trajectory from despair to hope, as the Sparrows overcome their hardships and succeed in leaving the camp.’ Australian Book Review
‘This sometimes sad, sometimes funny story is full of charming characters.’ Herald Sun
‘This is a wonderful novel about family relationships, about overcoming hardship and the strengths that people can gain by pulling together to beat the odds.’ Toowoomba Chronicle
‘This is a coming-of-age novel of an already worldly child. I haven't enjoyed a book this much in awhile.’ Sydney Morning Herald