"Mills weaves a mystical strand through what is in many ways an entirely earthbound story. Readers 12 and up should enjoy having the boundaries of their world stretched in this way."
Linda L. Richards. January Magazine
"J.C. Mills incorporates fantastic elements of the real world (like the discoveries of the kimodo dragon and the coelacanth) into her own new fantasy narrative. In this fashion she blurs the lines between fact and fiction, illustrating that the unimaginable does sometimes exist in reality, and that there is still much we do not know about the natural world. Her narrative describes the creature's experience of its capture and confinement, as well as Lucy's perspective, enabling the reader to relate to both. Although it is a work of fantasy, Mills well-crafted story delivers a very real message about the importance of preserving the natural world: if we do not respect the environment, we may never know what we have lost." Amy Harding. Canadian Children's Book News
"In Carew, J.C.Mills explores the interrelation of all living things and the precarious balance and precious link that binds them all. Through the character of Carew, the author investigates the danger of unrestrained self-indulgence and desire, the possibility that by tipping the balance in nature, all our lives may be in jeopardy. Through the characters of Evan, Lucy and Sir Jeffrey, Mills suggests that restraint and preservation is the route by which this balance might be maintained." Libby McKeever. Manitoba Library Association
"Adventure and mystery abound in this fine story. (Carew) is a complete success. It contains mystery, adventure, exoctic location, and concern about the environment without being overtly 'educational'. In other words, Carew is a fun read that can be heartily recommended for the younger set. And, most importantly, it is clearly written and contains the sort of language with which youngsters can connect. It has to be said that Mills has managed to capture the atmosphere of Nepal in her book, the mysticism of the mountains and forests of that country on the edge of the 'western' world, just across from China. This makes it an additional plus. So, if you care about what you give your children, or grandchildren to read this is definitely a tale worth purchasing for them." Alide Kohlhaas. Lancette Journal of the Arts
" The setting and concepts behind this story are ones worth pursuing, and Mills clearly has a vision to share. Mills invites her readers to consider the interdependence of all forms of life and to entertain the intriguing notion that animals, too, may have a sense of the sacred." Quill and Quire
