* Newbery Medal (1996) - This is the most prestigious award for children's literature in the United States.
* Coretta Scott King Award (1996) - This award recognizes outstanding African American authors and illustrators of children's books.
* American Book Award (1996) - This award honors literary excellence in all genres.
* National Book Award (1996) - This award recognizes outstanding literary works in a variety of genres.
* Notable Children's Book (1996) - This honor is bestowed by the American Library Association on outstanding children's books.
The novel was also a New York Times Bestseller and a Book Sense Book of the Year.