Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




2011 Best Books for Children: Fiction (page 2)


Cover art for HOUND DOG TRUE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 19, 2011

"This outstanding, emotionally resonant effort will appeal to middle-grade readers. (Fiction. 8-12)"
With a little help from a caring adult, a child crippled by shyness begins to bloom. Read full book review >
Cover art for JEFFERSON'S SONS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 15, 2011

"A big, serious work of historical investigation and imagination; the tale has never before been told this well. (Historical fiction. 9-14) "
It was a secret everybody knew at Monticello: Thomas Jefferson was the father of Beverly, Harriet, Madison and Eston Hemings, and their mother was Sally Hemings, a slave owned by Jefferson. Read full book review >
Cover art for WONDERSTRUCK
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 13, 2011
by Brian Selznick, illustrated by Brian Selznick

"Visually stunning, completely compelling, Wonderstruck demonstrates a mastery and maturity that proves that, yes, lightning can strike twice. (Historical fiction. 9 & up)"
Brian Selznick didn't have to do it. Read full book review >
Cover art for DEAD END IN NORVELT
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 13, 2011

"Characteristically provocative gothic comedy, with sublime undertones. (Autobiographical fiction. 11-13)"
An exhilarating summer marked by death, gore and fire sparks deep thoughts in a small-town lad not uncoincidentally named "Jack Gantos." Read full book review >
Cover art for CITY OF ORPHANS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 6, 2011
by Avi, illustrated by Greg Ruth

"Heroic deeds, narrow escapes, dastardly villains, amazing coincidences and a family rich in love and hope are all part of an intricate and endlessly entertaining adventure. Terrific! (Historical fiction. 10-14) "
An immigrant family tries to survive crime, poverty and corruption in 1893 New York City. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE UNFORGOTTEN COAT
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2011

"A tricky, magical delight. (author's note) (Fiction. 8-12)"
Treading water in her last term of elementary school, Julie figures she's learned all there is to learn, when two Mongolian brothers in fur-lined coats (it's summer) arrive: Chingis and Nergui. Read full book review >