Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




2010 Best Children's Books: All Picture Books


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Cover art for THE RABBIT PROBLEM
CHILDREN'S
Released: Nov. 2, 2010
by Emily Gravett, illustrated by Emily Gravett

"Endless fun to pore over for kids and math-minded or geeky adults. (Picture book. 4-9, Adult)"
In Gravett's gifted hands, an old math problem springs to life—and more life and more life! Read full book review >
Cover art for MIRROR
CHILDREN'S
Released: Nov. 1, 2010
by Jeannie Baker, illustrated by Jeannie Baker

"Perfectly spectacular. (Picture book. All ages)"
This entirely original book is a strong contender to bring to a desert island, especially as it's two books in one. Read full book review >
Cover art for STABLE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 12, 2010
by Ted Lewin, illustrated by Ted Lewin

"Beautiful. (author's note) (Picture book. 4-8)"
As he did in his acclaimed At Gleason's Gym (2007), Lewin conveys the spirit of a Brooklyn institution through sumptuously detailed, luminous watercolors. Read full book review >
Cover art for ART & MAX
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 4, 2010
by David Wiesner, illustrated by David Wiesner

"In this illustrator's world, mind-blowing art comes from accident, if you're brave enough (like Max) to smile and take an awkward leap. (Picture book. 4-10)"
Two lizards, one an unbridled enthusiast and the other a restrained snoot, stumble along a circuitous creative path together, making art through mishap and engaging all kinds of media along the way. Read full book review >
Cover art for JIMI
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2010
by Gary Golio, illustrated by Javaka Steptoe

"Outstanding in every way. (biographical note, author's note, websites, illustrator's note, bibliography, discography) (Picture book/biography. 6-11)"
Golio examines Jimi Hendrix's childhood creativity as a nurtured progression that stoked an explosively influential expression in the '60s. Read full book review >
Cover art for MAD AT MOMMY
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2010
by Komako Sakai, illustrated by Komako Sakai

"Charming, classy and current. (Picture book. 3-7)"
This little bunny is in one big huff, and he must tell his mommy exactly how he feels. Read full book review >
Cover art for PECAN PIE BABY
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2010
by Jaqueline Woodson, illustrated by Sophie Blackall

"Fresh and wise. (Picture book. 3-7)"
A feisty big-sister-to-be narrates her ambivalence about her mama's impending childbirth. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE CHIRU OF HIGH TIBET
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2010

"Inspiration for scientists and ecologists everywhere. (author's note) (Informational picture book. 5-10)"
In free verse as beautiful as the landscape she describes, Martin tells the ecological plight of the chiru, the tiny antelope-like creatures of the northern plains of Tibet. Read full book review >
Cover art for THERE'S GOING TO BE A BABY
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2010
by John Burningham, illustrated by Helen Oxenbury

"Heavy paper, generous trim, amusing endpapers and, above all, beautifully evoked relationships combine for a winning package. (Picture book. 2-6)"
Burningham and Oxenbury team for a poignant treatment of a preschooler's ambivalence about a forthcoming new sibling. Read full book review >
Cover art for 13 WORDS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2010
by Lemony Snicket, illustrated by Maira Kalman

"This charming chef-d'oeuvre sings like a mezzo-soprano. (Picture book. 3-10)"
"WORD NUMBER 1: Bird. / The bird sits on the table." Read full book review >
Cover art for WE ARE IN A BOOK!
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 14, 2010
by Mo Willems, illustrated by Mo Willems

"You bet. (Early reader. 4-8)"
Stalwart friends Piggie and Gerald the elephant push the metafictive envelope in a big way when they realize that "someone is looking at us." Read full book review >
Cover art for MR. ELEPHANTER
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2010
by Lark Pien, illustrated by Lark Pien

"With a slightly old-fangled atmosphere, expressive line work and balmy watercolors, Pien has created a sense of well being, where all is (mostly) right in the best of worlds. (Picture book. 4-8)"
A day in the life of Mr. Elephanter is a slice from the bygone, when the scale and pace of life didn't require medication. Mr. Elephanter, clearly a mild and loving soul, works at the elephantery, tending a small tribe of elephanties. Read full book review >
Cover art for KUBLA KHAN
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2010
by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Robert Byrd

"This account is like Kubla Khan himself—amazing. (author's and illustrator's notes, bibliography) (Picture book/biography. 5-12)"
The Emperor of Everything, indeed! Read full book review >
Cover art for ARROZ CON LECHE / RICE PUDDING
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2010
by Jorge Argueta, illustrated by Fernando Vilela

"A nice introduction to the joys of cooking, as well as a strong bilingual addition to any collection. (Picture book. 4-8)"
A lyrical recipe presented in the form of a free-verse poem, this bilingual (Spanish/English) selection combines the fun of cooking with the tenderness of a mother-son relationship. Read full book review >
Cover art for SPORK
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2010
by Kyo Maclear, illustrated by Isabelle Arsenault

"A sublime little parable. (Picture book. 4-8)"
Children of mixed marriages are about to find an unlikely ally in their cutlery drawers. Read full book review >
Cover art for SNOOK ALONE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2010
by Marilyn Nelson, illustrated by Timothy Basil Ering

"Ever eschewing manipulation, it nevertheless could wring tears from stone. (Picture book. 5-10)"
"Abba Jacob was a monk who lived in a hermitage on the island in a faraway sea," reads the opening line of Nelson and Ering's remarkable collaboration, but readers soon discover that the monk does not lead an entirely solitary existence. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE ROOSTER PRINCE OF BRESLOV
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2010

"Stampler's touching note demonstrates this layered tale's openness to multiple interpretations. (author's note) (Picture book/folktale. 4-7)"
This exuberantly rendered Yiddish folktale is bright in hue and spirit. Read full book review >
Cover art for WHO STOLE MONA LISA?
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2010
by Ruthie Knapp, illustrated by Jill McElmurry

"A gem. (author's note) (Informational picture book. 5-8)"
This inventive book's $20,000 Pyramid category would be "What Mona Lisa Might Say." Read full book review >
Cover art for CLEVER JACK TAKES THE CAKE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Aug. 24, 2010
by Candace Fleming, illustrated by G. Brian Karas

"The simple-but-expressive, cartoonish illustrations on textured paper and the delightfully clever design further distinguish this cheerful charmer. (Picture book. 4-8)"
A winsome gouache-and-pencil landscape sets the stage—a hilltop castle, a messenger on horseback, an escaped letter fluttering under the door of a humble cottage. Read full book review >
Cover art for BALLET FOR MARTHA
CHILDREN'S
Released: Aug. 3, 2010

"Archival photographs embellish the biographical notes at the end—a lovely touch. (bibliography, notes) (Informational picture book. 6-10)"
Appalachian Spring, the modern dance that celebrates the wedding of a Pioneer Woman and her Husbandman, is a brillantly conceived and enduring paean to American frontier life. Read full book review >
Cover art for ROSLYN RUTABAGA AND THE BIGGEST HOLE ON EARTH!
CHILDREN'S
Released: Aug. 1, 2010
by Marie-Louise Gay, illustrated by Marie-Louise Gay

"Roslyn Rutabaga is one darned determined—and adorable—bunny. (Picture book. 3-5)"
Roslyn Rutabaga wakes up one morning with a grand plan: She wants to dig the Biggest Hole on Earth. Read full book review >
Cover art for IN THE WILD
CHILDREN'S
Released: Aug. 1, 2010
by David Elliott, illustrated by Holly Meade

"The poems, though they employ some sophisticated vocabulary, are short and direct, a feature that will demonstrate to verse-averse young readers that poetry can be powerful and pleasurable without being too complicated or threatening. (Picture book/poetry. 4-10)"
A stunning combination of poems and illustrations celebrating some of Earth's wildest and most beautiful creatures. Read full book review >
Cover art for LING & TING
CHILDREN'S
Released: July 1, 2010
by Grace Lin, illustrated by Grace Lin

"This spot-on depiction of twins celebrates individuality. (Early reader. 6-9)"
Newbery Honor author Lin makes a stunning entrée into the world of early readers. Read full book review >
Cover art for WALDEN THEN AND NOW
CHILDREN'S
Released: July 1, 2010
by Michael McCurdy, illustrated by Michael McCurdy

"An unusual yet entirely appropriate introduction to the famed hermit—and the other residents of Walden Pond. (source notes with quotes from Walden) (Alphabet book. 10 & up)"
This elegant alphabet book brilliantly conveys the essence of 19th-century American author, naturalist and philosopher Henry David Thoreau's solitary sojourn at Walden Pond. Read full book review >
Cover art for CITY DOG, COUNTRY FROG
CHILDREN'S
Released: June 8, 2010
by Mo Willems, illustrated by Jon J Muth

"The image of a happy dog treading water with a frog on his head says it all. (Picture book. 3 & up)"
In Willems's latest, a departure from his urban sensibility as well as his first book as solely the author, a dog from the city explores new territory when he moves to the country and befriends a frog. Read full book review >
Cover art for BEAVER IS LOST
CHILDREN'S
Released: June 8, 2010
by Elisha Cooper, illustrated by Elisha Cooper

"Stunning in their simplicity, these pictures speak a thousand words. (Picture book. 3-7)"
When unflappable Beaver accidentally lands in the big city, he encounters challenges finding his way home. Read full book review >
Cover art for A SICK DAY FOR AMOS MCGEE
CHILDREN'S
Released: May 25, 2010
by Philip C. Stead, illustrated by Erin E. Stead

"This gentle, ultimately warm story acknowledges the care and reciprocity behind all good friendships: Much like Amos's watch, they must be wound regularly to remain true. (Picture book. 2-6)"
Amos McGee, an elderly zookeeper, enjoys a clockwork life (one teaspoonful of sugar for oatmeal, two for tea and the number five bus to work) until the sniffles force him to stay in bed and miss his daily visits with animal friends. Read full book review >
Cover art for COUNTRY ROAD ABC
CHILDREN'S
Released: May 1, 2010
by Arthur Geisert, illustrated by Arthur Geisert

"A simply glorious barn and farm opus. (glossary) (Picture book. 5-9)"
Only someone who's walked the walk and driven the tractor—and is immensely creative besides—could take readers on such an accurate, realistic and fascinating alphabetic farmland journey. Read full book review >
Cover art for REMEMBERING CRYSTAL
CHILDREN'S
Released: May 1, 2010
by Sebastian Loth, illustrated by Sebastian Loth

"This simple, honest presentation deserves room on the shelf. (Picture book. 3-8)"
Friendship can live forever. Read full book review >
Cover art for WHAT IF?
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 27, 2010

"Simply gorgeous. (Picture book. 3-6)"
What if two seals are playing with a beach ball and it rolls up on shore? Read full book review >
Cover art for SUMMER BIRDS
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 27, 2010
by Margarita Engle, illustrated by Julie Paschkis

"They, too, will imagine themselves growing up to follow their dreams. (historical note) (Picture book/biography. 4-9)"
It's not often that someone is born both a great scientist and a great artist, especially if that someone is a girl in the middle of the 17th century. Read full book review >
Cover art for LMNO PEAS
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 5, 2010
by Keith Baker, illustrated by Keith Baker

"Peas out. (Picture book. 3-7)"
A passel of industrious peas narrates inventive, alphabetically arranged avocations: "We are peas—alphabet peas! / We work and play in the ABCs." Read full book review >
Cover art for UBIQUITOUS
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 1, 2010
by Joyce Sidman, illustrated by Beckie Prange

"Lovely. (glossary) (Picture book/poetry. 8 & up)"
Sidman delights with another gorgeous collection of poems celebrating the natural world, this time focusing on species remarkable for their ability to adapt and thrive in an often-harsh world. Read full book review >
Cover art for SHARK VS. TRAIN
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 1, 2010
by Chris Barton, illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld

"It's hard to choose; both are winners. (Picture book. 3-6)"
With two boys at a toy chest, one clutching a shark and the other a train, thus begins the most unlikeliest of competitions. Read full book review >
Cover art for SAY HELLO!
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 1, 2010
by Rachel Isadora, illustrated by Rachel Isadora

"Simply enchanting. (Picture book. 3-5)"
Today Carmelita visits her Abuela Rosa, but to get there she must walk. Read full book review >
Cover art for MIMI’S DADA CATIFESTO
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 1, 2010
by Shelley Jackson, illustrated by Shelley Jackson

"Completely spectacular. (Picture book. 7 & up)"
This engaging picture book delivers a pleasurable story, dazzling artwork and a fascinating introduction to Dadaism. Read full book review >
Cover art for I AM A BACKHOE
CHILDREN'S
Released: March 9, 2010

"The author has turned an ordinary (and overdone) topic into something extraordinary. (Picture book. 2-6)"
Like many young boys, this book's protagonist marries an active imagination to a love of trucks. Read full book review >
Cover art for HIP HOP DOG
CHILDREN'S
Released: March 1, 2010
by Chris Raschka, illustrated by Vladimir Radunsky

A neglected pup raps a bravado-laced memoir that chronicles his life on the street and gradual embrace of hip-hop culture. Read full book review >
Cover art for MY GARDEN
CHILDREN'S
Released: March 1, 2010
by Kevin Henkes, illustrated by Kevin Henkes

"Just plain perfect. (Picture book. 3-7)"
A little girl enjoys helping her mother in her garden, but she knows if she had a garden, it would be something else entirely: no weeds, ever-blooming multicolored flowers with hues she can change with just a thought, chocolate rabbits instead of pests and so on. Read full book review >
Cover art for MIRROR MIRROR
CHILDREN'S
Released: March 1, 2010
by Marilyn Singer, illustrated by Josée Masse

"A mesmerizing and seamless celebration of language, imagery and perspective. (note on the form) (Poetry. 8-12)"
A collection of masterful fairy-tale–inspired reversos—a poetic form invented by the author, in which each poem is presented forward and backward. Read full book review >
Cover art for BIG RED LOLLIPOP
CHILDREN'S
Released: March 1, 2010
by Rukhsana Khan, illustrated by Sophie Blackall

"Charming and spirited. (Picture book. 3-5)"
Dynamic visual design distinguishes this tale of sibling conflict in an immigrant family. Read full book review >
Cover art for DEAR PRIMO
CHILDREN'S
Released: March 1, 2010
by Duncan Tonatiuh, illustrated by Duncan Tonatiuh

In a story based on the author's childhood experiences, two cousins, Charlie and Carlitos, exchange letters. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE BOYS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Feb. 23, 2010
by Jeff Newman, illustrated by Jeff Newman

"Through confident brushwork, done in a stylized '50s modern aesthetic, the artist's images reveal sports' deep truths about acceptance, a willingness to try and the intergenerational connections they bring. (Picture book. 4-8)"
It's a new town for a baseball-loving protagonist. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE EXTRAORDINARY MARK TWAIN
CHILDREN'S
Released: Jan. 1, 2010
by Barbara Kerley, illustrated by Edwin Fotheringham

"A heartwarming tribute to both the writing life in general and the well-loved humorist—oops, sorry Susy… "Pholosopher!" (author's note, how to write a biography, time line, sources) (Picture book/biography. 8-11)"
From 1885 to '86, Mark Twain's 13-year-old daughter Susy Clemens wrote a 130-page biography of her father out of indignation: Her dear Papa was no mere humorist! Read full book review >
Cover art for BUNNY DAYS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Jan. 1, 2010

"Scenes of baffled wee white bunnies spinning on delicate cycle, popping out of vacuum bags and holding their powder-puff tails add to the overall whimsy, hapless humor and total charm. (dust jacket opens into poster) (Picture book. 3-5)"
Three tiny tales feature two goats whose domestic activities wreak havoc on six bunnies until a resourceful bear saves the day. Read full book review >