Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




Best Children's Books of 2012: Books for Adventurous Souls


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Cover art for THE MIGHTY MISS MALONE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Jan. 10, 2012

"Deza is one great heroine in her own right, a fitting literary companion to Bud Caldwell. (Historical fiction. 9-12)"
Deza Malone had a brief appearance in Curtis' multiple–award-winning novel, Bud, Not Buddy (Newbery Medal and Coretta Scott King Author Award, 2000). Now, she is the dynamic and engaging heroine of her own story. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE AMAZING ADVENTURES OF JOHN SMITH, JR., AKA HOUDINI
CHILDREN'S
Released: Jan. 24, 2012

"In the end, Houdini realizes that writing has changed him and altered his perspective on people and life. Readers will feel the same way. And just try to get kids not to make their own lists or attempt their own novels. (Fiction. 9-12)"
A middle-schooler writes a kids' novel; an author writes an engaging, amiable read--and, presto, a tale about a boy nicknamed Houdini turns out magical. Read full book review >
Cover art for COLD CEREAL
CHILDREN'S
Released: Feb. 7, 2012

"A massive explosion at the end only sets that evil scheme back a bit; stay tuned for further strange and exhilarating developments. (Fantasy. 11-13)"
A motley assortment of human experimental subjects and faerie exiles take on a New Jersey cereal company run by eldritch management for nefarious purposes. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE CASE OF THE DEADLY DESPERADOS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Feb. 16, 2012

"A rich vein of wisdom runs through this highly entertaining, swashbuckling series debut. (1862 map of Virginia City, glossary) (Historical fiction. 10-14)"
Twelve-year-old P.K. "Pinky" Pinkerton was born with a poker face--he can't show or read emotion--but it's not until he lands in Nevada Territory's silver-mining country that he comes to terms with the hand he's dealt. Read full book review >
Cover art for THREE TIMES LUCKY
CHILDREN'S
Released: May 10, 2012

"Readers may find they never want to leave Tupelo Landing. (Mystery. 10-14)"
What do you get when you combine Because of Winn-Dixie's heart with the mystery and action of Holes? You get an engaging, spirit-lifting and unforgettable debut for young readers. Read full book review >
Cover art for CARDBOARD
CHILDREN'S
Released: Aug. 1, 2012
by Doug TenNapel, illustrated by Doug TenNapel

"Utterly brilliant. (Graphic fantasy. 10 & up)"
An out-of-the-box story of golems, guys and guts. Read full book review >