Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




Children's and Teen: 9 - 11 years old


Cover art for ROBOTS
CHILDREN'S
Released: July 16, 2014
by Chris Oxlade, illustrated by Peter Bull

"Substandard nonfiction series fare, aimed at a slightly older audience than the publisher's Kingfisher Young Knowledge entry on the topic (2003) but a clean miss. (Nonfiction. 8-10)"
This haphazard jumble of military, domestic, space, toy and industrial robots is unlikely to draw young technophiles for more than a quick once-over. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE CARPET PEOPLE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Nov. 5, 2013

"Small in scale but large in pleasure. (author's note; illustrations not seen) (Fantasy. 9 & up)"
Pratchett's first children's book has finally crossed the pond, 42 years after its initial publication and 21 years after its second, revised edition (which this edition mostly matches). Read full book review >
Cover art for GOD GOT A DOG
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 29, 2013
by Cynthia Rylant, illustrated by Marla Frazee

"Funny, devout and oh, so human; this collection hits home. (Poetry. 10 & up)"
Several of the poems from Rylant's wry meditation God Went to Beauty School (2003) are regathered, rearranged and luminously illustrated by Frazee. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE ANIMAL BOOK
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 29, 2013
by Steve Jenkins, illustrated by Steve Jenkins

"With facts sure to delight readers--who will be impatient to share their discoveries--this spectacular book is a must-purchase for animal-loving families and most libraries. (glossary, bibliography) (Nonfiction. 5 & up)"
Building on years of experience in selecting animal facts and creating arresting illustrations, Jenkins surpasses his previous work with an amazing album characterized by clear organization, realistic images and carefully chosen examples. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE WOLF PRINCESS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 4, 2013

"Considerably less than the sum of its parts, this mash-up won't satisfy fans of fantasy or realistic fiction. (Adventure. 9-12)"
An uneasy mix of school story, adventure and fairy-tale tropes, this British import hits all the expected notes--orphaned heroine, exotic setting, hidden treasure, unknown heritage and exciting events--but never quite manages to produce an engaging composition. Read full book review >
Cover art for CALL OF THE KLONDIKE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2013

"A memorable adventure, told with great immediacy. (timeline, author's notes, bibliography, resources) (Nonfiction. 11 & up)"
A remarkable collection of documents paints a picture of the Klondike gold rush in vivid detail. Read full book review >