Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




Children's and Teen: High School


Cover art for HEARTBEAT
CHILDREN'S
Released: Feb. 1, 2014

"An intense examination of a family coping with grief, this absorbing character study easily keeps pages turning. (Fiction. 12 & up)"
This first-person examination of a girl mourning her mother's sudden death explores the anger survivors often feel when confronting grief. Read full book review >
Cover art for HE SAID, SHE SAID
CHILDREN'S
Released: Nov. 19, 2013

"Urban-fiction readers will enjoy this, but it will also appeal to any teen reader seeking a romantic read with lots of fun. (Fiction. 14 & up)"
A star high school quarterback bets he can get the attention of a girl who claims not to be interested by leading a protest for a cause she champions. 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 TEARDROP
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 22, 2013

"Still, there's plenty here to make for a terrific weekend-afternoon read. (Paranormal romance. 14 & up)"
When given the choice to "[s]ave the world, or save the girl," a young man named Ander, scion of a mystical race of beings with power over water, chooses the girl. Read full book review >