Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




2011 Best Books for Teens: Exploring the Past


Cover art for BLACK & WHITE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Nov. 1, 2011

"A clean, graphically interesting design abets a well-researched, engaging narrative that contributes a more nuanced view of the period than is often seen. (author's note, further reading, source notes, index) (Nonfiction. 12 & up)

"
A fascinating look at one of the most crucial places and periods in the civil rights movement through two polar opposites. Read full book review >
Cover art for I.M. PEI:  ARCHITECT OF TIME, PLACE, AND PURPOSE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2011

"An exquisite package, much like one of Pei's buildings. (timeline, bibliography, source notes, index, suggestions for further reading, listings of building projects, awards) (Nonfiction. 12 & up) "
This lively blend of narrative and detailed design is a perfect way to introduce the architectural vision of I.M. Pei to young readers. Read full book review >
Cover art for LIFE: AN EXPLODED DIAGRAM
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2011

"Sophisticated teens and adults will appreciate this subtle yet powerful exposition of the far-reaching implications of war. (Fiction. 14 & up) "
A coming-of-age story framed by some of the most terrifying events of the last 60 years, from World War II to 9/11. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE ISLE OF BLOOD
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 13, 2011

"He deftly blurs lines between science and the supernatural, and what results is a long, dark-night-of-the-soul journey for both Will Henry and Pellinore that is certain to turn the hearts and the stomachs of every reader who dares open its pages. (Horror. 14 & up)
"
When an obscure, slimy, flesh-colored pouch is delivered to Pellinore Warthrop's door and renders the deliverer into a bloody, pulpy zombie-like mess, the Monstrumologist has but one course of action open to him. Read full book review >
Cover art for QUEEN OF HEARTS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Aug. 2, 2011

An absorbing and quietly moving coming-of-age story about a French-Canadian teenager during World War II who contracts tuberculosis, along with her younger brother and sister, and is confined to a local sanatorium for long-term care just before her 16th birthday. Read full book review >
Cover art for WHITE CROW
CHILDREN'S
Released: July 5, 2011

"Wickedly macabre and absolutely terrifying. (Horror. 14 & up)"
Two girls are brought together more from ennui than anything else in this riveting tale that brings the murderous history of a disintegrating coastal town into the present. Read full book review >