Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




2011 Best Books for Children: Graphic Novels & Illustrated Chapter Books (page 2)


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 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 >
Cover art for DRAWING FROM MEMORY
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2011
by Allen Say, illustrated by Allen Say

"Aesthetically superb; this will fascinate comics readers and budding artists while creating new Say fans. (author's note) (Graphic memoir. 10 & up)"
Exquisite drawings, paintings, comics and photographs balance each other perfectly as they illustrate Say's childhood path to becoming an artist. Read full book review >
Cover art for SQUISH, SUPER AMOEBA
CHILDREN'S
Released: May 24, 2011

"If ever a new series deserved to go viral, this one does. (Graphic novel. 7-9)"
The hilarious misadventures of a hapless young everylad who happens to be an amoeba. Read full book review >
Cover art for WILD WINGS
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 19, 2011
by Gill Lewis, illustrated by Yuta Onoda

"With universal themes of life and death, friendship and respect for the natural world, this is still quite particular, a powerfully memorable story of a boy's grief and determination to keep a promise. (Fiction. 9-13)"
Striving to protect the osprey nesting on his family's farm in Scotland, 11-year-old Callum McGregor watches the bird throughout summer, uses a computer to follow her migration to Africa and sets in motion a remarkable chain of events. Read full book review >