In some ways [There's A Bat in Bunk Five] is the usual camping story of pranks, bunkmates, adjustment to separation from parents, etc. This doesn't, however, follow a formula plot; it has depth in the relationships and characterizations; and it's written with vigor and humor. Marcy learns not to expect too much from others, not to assume that all problems will—or can—be solved; she also learns not to expect too much from herself.

Zena Sutherland, "New Titles for Children and Young People: 'There's a Bat in Bunk Five'," in Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (reprinted by permission of The University of Chicago Press; © 1980 by the University of Chicago), Vol. 34, No. 4, December, 1980, p. 68.