Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




2011 Best Books for Children: Books to Make You Laugh (page 3)


Cover art for PIG KAHUNA
CHILDREN'S
Released: May 1, 2011
by Jennifer Sattler, illustrated by Jennifer Sattler

"Together words and pictures create an utterly engaging picture-book experience—eye-catching, thought-provoking and just plain fun. (Picture book. 4-7)"
Surfer pigs rise above aphorisms. Read full book review >
Cover art for SIDEKICKS
CHILDREN'S
Released: May 1, 2011

"Look for more twists than a pretzel factory and a possible sequel. (Superhero fantasy. 11-14)"
The author who made a splash with The Big Splash (2008) takes the "costumed superheroes" genre out for a joyride, and anyone who comes along will never read comics the same way again. Read full book review >
Cover art for OKAY FOR NOW
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 5, 2011

"By the end of this tale, replete with allusions to Our Town, Doug realizes he's pretty happy in Marysville, where holding hands with the green-eyed girl—and a first kiss—rival whatever might be happening on the moon. (Historical fiction. 10-14)"
Cover art for SPINSTER GOOSE
CHILDREN'S
Released: March 8, 2011
by Lisa Wheeler, illustrated by Sophie Blackall

"Gorey kids. (Picture book/poetry. 8 & up)"
Delectably satiric nursery rhymes play with naughtiness and punishment. Read full book review >
Cover art for FRIENDS ALL AFLUTTER!
CHILDREN'S
Released: March 8, 2011
by Andy Runton, illustrated by Andy Runton

"New format, new look, same "Aw, shucks" story, art and characters. (Picture book. 2-5)"
Graphic novelist Runton trades off page count for picture-book-bright hues and tones in his first all-color Owly story. Read full book review >
Cover art for INSIDE OUT AND BACK AGAIN
CHILDREN'S
Released: Feb. 22, 2011

"In her not-to-be-missed debut, Lai evokes a distinct time and place and presents a complex, realistic heroine whom readers will recognize, even if they haven't found themselves in a strange new country. (Historical fiction/verse. 9-12)"
An enlightening, poignant and unexpectedly funny novel in verse is rooted in the author's childhood experiences. Read full book review >