Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




2011 Best Books for Children: Exploring the Past (page 4)


Cover art for ME...JANE
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 5, 2011

"Backmatter includes a pithy biography, additional photographs and a letter and drawing from Jane herself—children will thrill at the connection. (Picture book/biography. 2-10)"
Little Jane Goodall and Jubilee (her toy chimpanzee) ramble outside their English country home observing everyday animal miracles and dreaming of a life in Africa, "living with, / and helping, / all animals." Read full book review >
Cover art for THE WATCHER
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 5, 2011
by Jeanette Winter, illustrated by Jeanette Winter

"Quotes from Jane augment this inspiring book, encouraging young people to join her as dutiful watchers of the world. (author's note) (Picture book/biography. 2-10)"
Economical art and language produce a fully fleshed-out biography of Jane Goodall, tracing her early years as a watcher of English fauna to her adult work as scholar of animal behavior in Africa. Read full book review >
Cover art for PABLO NERUDA
CHILDREN'S
Released: March 29, 2011
by Monica Brown, illustrated by Julie Paschkis

"A visual and thematic stunner. (author's note, bibliography) (Picture book. 4-11)"
More than a heartwarming portrait of Chile's most revered poet, this splendid tribute to Pablo Neruda animates his global appeal with a visceral immediacy capable of seducing readers of any age. Read full book review >
Cover art for ALL THE WAY TO AMERICA
CHILDREN'S
Released: March 8, 2011
by Dan Yaccarino, illustrated by Dan Yaccarino

"A gloriously warm celebration. (Picture book. 5-9)"
With clarity and deep affection, Yaccarino turns his family history into a story of enduring charm. 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 >
Cover art for UNDERGROUND
CHILDREN'S
Released: Jan. 18, 2011
by Shane W. Evans, illustrated by Shane W. Evans

"Lengthier accounts of travel on the Underground Railroad abound, but few if any portray the experience with such compelling immediacy. (afterword) (Picture book. 5-9)"
Powerfully expressive imagery will sweep young viewers into this suspenseful journey along the Underground Railroad. Read full book review >