cover image
LATEST ISSUE OF
Kirkus Reviews
Check out our interview with Rick Yancey, author of the wildly entertaining YA thriller The 5th Wave.
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 SECRETS OF THE GARDEN
CHILDREN'S
Released: Feb. 28, 2012
Kirkus Star SECRETS OF THE GARDEN: FOOD CHAINS AND THE FOOD WEB IN OUR BACKYARD
by Kathleen Weidner Zoehfeld, illustrated by Priscilla Lamont
"Sure to become a standard go-to for elementary teachers and gardeners alike, this is bound to spark some backyard explorations. (Informational picture book. 4-9)"
Zoehfeld's latest is a wonderfully informative and enjoyable journey through one family's backyard garden, from spring planting to fall harvest. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE FLYING BEAVER BROTHERS AND THE EVIL PENGUIN PLAN
CHILDREN'S
Released: Jan. 10, 2012
THE FLYING BEAVER BROTHERS AND THE EVIL PENGUIN PLAN
by Maxwell Eaton III, illustrated by Maxwell Eaton III
"Some readers won't make it through the most painful jokes, but those who do will see something marvelous building itself in front of their eyes. (Graphic novel. 6-9)"
Who says penguins are cute? Read full book review >
Cover art for BLOOD SUN
CHILDREN'S
Released: Dec. 27, 2011
BLOOD SUN
by David Gilman
"While not as believable or as enjoyable as Max's last adventure, this is still a solid read from start to breathless finish. (Thriller. 11-15) "
The third installment in the adventures of British teen Max Gordon, who continues his quest to learn more about his family's past. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE LONELY PINE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Dec. 15, 2011
THE LONELY PINE
by Aaron Frisch, illustrated by Etienne Delessert
"Beautifully turned phrases and perfectly captured descriptions beg for this to be used in middle- and high-school writing classes. (Picture book. 9-13)"
Poetic phrases and gorgeous illustrations introduce readers to the harsh environment of the Arctic. Read full book review >
Cover art for SOMETHING TO HOLD
CHILDREN'S
Released: Dec. 5, 2011
SOMETHING TO HOLD
by Katherine Schlick Noe
"The ever-present threat of forest fire makes a grimly effective backdrop to the gentle foreground of this engaging tale, chronicling how tolerance of difference engenders mutual respect and opens the door to necessary change. (author's note, glossary) (Historical fiction. 9-12)"
Kitty Schlick is apprehensive about starting sixth grade on Oregon's Warm Springs Indian Reservation, home to Paiute, Warm Springs and Wasco people, where her father's job has taken the family in 1962. Read full book review >
Cover art for NATURE ADVENTURES
CHILDREN'S
Released: Nov. 1, 2011
NATURE ADVENTURES
by Mick Manning, Brita Granström, illustrated by Mick Manning, Brita Granström
"A strong choice for explorers, artists and nature lovers. (glossary, safety note, list of poems and music, information on The Wildlife Trust) (Nonfiction. 6-10)"
Chocked full of information, illustrations and inspiration, this wildlife journal will captivate nature lovers young and old. Read full book review >