This novel is clever and engaging and tells an inspiring story that will appeal especially to young girls, while its humor and likable characters will appeal to readers of all ages and both genders. It is impossible not to like Amanda, and root for her in her adventures. The crosscutting of scenes and shifting between viewpoints is cinematic in nature, and so this book would lend itself quite well to being filmed commercially. The main word that describes this novel is wholesome. The author’s choice and pacing of incident is well honed in the way individual scenes reveal character through action and dialogue.

Each year the Jamaica Reading Association (JRA) hosts activities in schools across Jamaica with the main focus being to develop literacy skills at different levels, as well as give support to teachers in this area. The activities usually include Read-Aloud sessions in schools across the island. In 2013 we selected the novel No Boy like Amanda as the official book of the JRA’s National Reading Week, April 28 – May 4.

No Boy like Amanda was chosen because we found it to be quite appropriate. It is a true Jamaican novel that the average child can relate to. It is an exciting and interesting story that shows determination leading to triumph and includes important traits to encourage as we focus on literacy. It also teaches children to believe in themselves, showing that one can excel at his or her own unique talents. I believe that the novel appeals to both sexes as children are able to see themselves, friends and even family in the characters.

The novel proved to be a hit with the children who loved the action in the story; and the vivid imagery of No Boy like Amanda sustained their attention. Reading aloud is a powerful reading strategy that develops children’s minds as well as inspires imagination.

I would recommend this novel to children between the ages of eight to thirteen years, but I’m sure that even older persons will enjoy it.

NO BOY LIKE AMANDA was read in my class as a part of National Reading Week activities during April 28-May 4, 2013. I found it an interesting book. The students loved it and were engaged in the story as they could identify with the characters. They sat engrossed as the book was read, and were able to respond to questions about the story.

I would recommend this book to students who enjoy reading.

At a time when values in Jamaica are skewed and children’s entertainment isn't always what it should be, No Boy like Amanda returns innocence to childhood. This well-written novel by first-time author, Hope Barnett, is a must read for children and their parents.

Set in rural Jamaica, this witty story revives the fond memories which many of us as adults have of our summer holidays and tells of the summer adventures of a group of children, including Amanda. The novel follows the children as they create their own fun like kite flying, riding a bicycle, going fishing, picking mangoes and a myriad of other activities as they enjoy the holiday. But the excursions are not without mishaps primarily caused by Amanda who fails to heed the protests of her older brother to stay at home. But resolute to be 'one of the boys', Amanda remains determined to keep up with the boys, partaking of the excitement. In time, however, she finds her niche and in her own right, gains the respect of her peers.

A novel perfect for children, No Boy like Amanda takes us back to a time when Jamaica was safe for children, when it was fun to play outdoors, children were respectful to adults, and the community helped to protect the child. The characters are lovable and recognizable which pulls the reader into the novel. Plus if you've ever been the younger child, especially with older brothers, you are sure to relate to this novel.

Perhaps most important, No Boy like Amanda can be a great source of inspiration for children. It highlights the positive traits of perseverance, determination, friendship, and courage. The responsible parenting shown by the Simpsons and others in the novel, especially the sense of security that comes from a sound, healthy father-daughter relationship, is admirable. These are parenting skills that will help to develop outstanding children and in the meantime keep them safe while nurturing them.

This is indeed a good read!

Hope Barnett's "No Boy Like Amanda" has all the elements of a good story - action and interaction, humour, fun and adventure, fear and pain, and a credibly happy ending.The story is set in rural Jamaica, but it is also about people everywhere. It is a story for children, about children; and it also captures the imagination and stirs the memory of the most mature among us.

It is also a story about family and community life. In the most natural and delightful way, the writer shares insights and experiences about growing up with parents and siblings, relatives and neighbours, old and young, who were far from perfect but who cared about each other. They learnt from each other, not only practical skills such as swimming and kite flying, but life skills for social interaction.
The adults recognized and encouraged the children's potential. Simply and naturally, as the opportunities would arise, they would pass on to the children their knowledge and their values - respect and kindness to others, how to cope with trials and overcome difficulties.

This story is a must read for parents, teachers and community leaders, and above all, for our children.

NO BOY LIKE AMANDA is an intriguing, easy to read novel about summer experiences in a rural setting. Hope Barnett has rekindled wholesome family values when many are despairing for our children. Our young readers will find these escapades fascinating. The title grabs your interest as does Hope's first novel.

When the literary chapter of Jamaica's 50th anniversary celebration is written NO BOY LIKE AMANDA by Hope Barnett will surely be recognized as part of the intangible heritage of Jamaica. I welcome this publication by a Jamaican for our youth, an endeavour, which was impossible fifty years ago! We know that this is the first of many novels and I therefore celebrate the beginning of this journey.

NO BOY LIKE AMANDA is an engaging story of an eight year old girl who struggles to find her identity amidst her male-dominated sibling circle. The story, which is set in rural Jamaica, takes the reader through Amanda's growing awareness of herself to the point where she is able to confidently dispel the myth that girls are confined to low-challenge, non-threatening tasks. It is a sweet victory for Amanda who eventually becomes an equal in a boy's world.

The story is authentically Jamaican and aptly captures the experiences of childhood with its pleasures and challenges - perceived and real. Any Jamaican reader can identify with the food, the games, the jokes, the language and day-to-day activities which are portrayed in the story. Not only is this story about gender balance; it also seeks to remove other stereotypes.

The text should serve as very interesting reading for children at the primary level, starting at grade three on average. As a supplemental text, it could address themes such as identity, courage, perseverance and ambition. The story models good writing in style and form and could contribute quite positively to students' reading-writing connection skills.