Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




2011 Best Books for Children: The Complete List (page 4)


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 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 LOVE, MOUSERELLA
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2011
by David Ezra Stein, illustrated by David Ezra Stein

"Sometimes snail mail is just better. Here's proof. (Picture book. 5-7)"
Bestrewing lined sheets with crayon drawings, Polaroids, smudges, a ketchup packet (not a real one) and other signs of affection, a mouseling writes a newsy love note to her Grandmouse. 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 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 >