Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




2011 Back-to-School Roundup (page 2)


Cover art for BAILEY
CHILDREN'S
Released: Aug. 1, 2011
by Harry Bliss, illustrated by Harry Bliss

"Deeper thinkers may see in this a message of acceptance of everyone for who they are; others may simply see fun, and there's nothing wrong with that. (Picture book. 4-8)"
Bailey enjoys his day at school, from the bus ride in the morning through math, art, music, recess, reading and the afternoon bus ride back home to his…doghouse. Read full book review >
Cover art for LOUISE THE BIG CHEESE AND THE BACK-TO-SCHOOL SMARTY-PANTS
CHILDREN'S
Released: July 26, 2011
by Elise Primavera, illustrated by Diane Goode

"A timely message for readers on both sides of the desk. (Picture book. 5-10)"
That indomitable diva Louise is back, this time showing kids that hard work is its own reward. Read full book review >
Cover art for SEA MONSTER'S FIRST DAY
CHILDREN'S
Released: July 6, 2011
by Kate Messner, illustrated by Andy Rash

"Presents kids with some great advice and solid solutions to the most common first-day what-ifs. (Picture book. 4-7)"
Ernest discovers that making friends is sometimes the hardest part of starting school, but that with a little perseverance and imagination, things can turn around. Read full book review >
Cover art for SUBSTITUTE CREACHER
CHILDREN'S
Released: July 5, 2011
by Chris Gall, illustrated by Chris Gall

"Great for both Halloween and the start of a new school year, this is certain to provide more than a few laughs to kids who have seen through Viola Swamp's disguise. (Picture book. 6-10)"
In this cautionary tale that combines humor and a touch of magic, good behavior is the lesson of the day when a particularly naughty class of students has a substitute teacher. Read full book review >
Cover art for A FUNERAL IN THE BATHROOM
CHILDREN'S
Released: July 1, 2011
by Kalli Dakos, illustrated by Mark Beech

"Another solid addition for classroom shelves…just cross fingers that it is not too inspiring. (Poetry. 6-9)"
Dakos adds another collection to the poetry shelf, this one taking its inspiration from the school bathroom. Read full book review >
Cover art for MISS FOX'S CLASS SHAPES UP
CHILDREN'S
Released: July 1, 2011
by Eileen Spinelli, illustrated by Anne Kennedy

"The combination of can-do attitude and cute animals may make it hard not to jump on the wellness bandwagon; the challenge is just to keep from falling off. (Picture book. 6-8)"
In her fourth outing, when Miss Fox notices sleepy students, rumbly tummies and huffs and puffs at recess, she realizes that her class needs some help getting into better shape. Read full book review >