[A Year and a Day] is a fairy tale which superbly evokes the potency of words and the wonder of natural things. The language is simple and fresh, reflecting the sisters' sensual and visual appreciation of the beauties around them and their dawning delight in words…. The tenderness of the peasant family towards the strange little boy, the essential kindness of the squire and the rector, the humour of small incidents, and the pungency of the Cornish dialogue, provide a warm and realistic backcloth to the resonant tale of the fairy-child who returns to his own. In its simplicity it deviates from William Mayne's usual, more elaborate plots, and should appeal to readers of eight upwards, and upwards. (pp. 80-1)

Sally Emerson, in Books and Bookmen (© copyright Sally Emerson 1976; reprinted with permission), November, 1976.