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)


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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 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 HEART AND SOUL
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 27, 2011
by Kadir Nelson, illustrated by Kadir Nelson

"This intimate narrative makes the stories accessible to young readers and powerfully conveys how personal this history feels for many African-Americans. (Nonfiction. 10 & up)"
In an undertaking even more ambitious than the multiple-award-winning We Are the Ship (2008), Nelson tells the story of African-Americans and their often central place in American history. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE CHESHIRE CHEESE CAT
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2011

"Readers with great expectations will find them fully satisfied by this tongue-in-cheek romp through a historic public House that is the very opposite of Bleak. (Animal fantasy. 10-12)"
"He was the best of toms. He was the worst of toms." And for all his harsh early life and unnatural dietary preferences, ragged London alley cat Skilley gets to look at a queen, too. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE INQUISITOR'S APPRENTICE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 3, 2011
by Chris Moriarty, illustrated by Mark Edward Geyer

"A marvelous, mystical romp that doesn't ignore reality. A hint of a possible sequel whets readers' appetite for more: Yes, please! (author's note) (Fantasy. 12 & up)"
Thirteen-year-old Sacha lives in New York City's Lower East Side at the turn of the 20th century. Or does he? Read full book review >
Cover art for LIESL & PO
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 4, 2011
by Lauren Oliver, illustrated by Kei Acedera

"An irresistible read: This book sings. (Fantasy. 8-12)"
A wonderfully imaginative, startlingly moving and at times wickedly funny fantasy. Read full book review >