Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




Best Nonfiction of 2012: Biography


Cover art for THE PATRIARCH
NONFICTION
Released: Nov. 13, 2012

"It did not, and nothing came easy to any of the Kennedys, that tragic clan, who continue to fascinate. Exhaustive yet accessible, Nasaw's book illuminates."
Sprawling, highly readable biography of the dynast and larger-than-life figure whose presence still haunts American political life. Read full book review >
Cover art for THOMAS JEFFERSON
NONFICTION
Released: Nov. 13, 2012

"An outstanding biography that reveals an overlooked steeliness at Jefferson's core that accounts for so much of his political success."
A Pulitzer Prize–winning biographer lauds the political genius of Thomas Jefferson. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE LAST LION
NONFICTION
Released: Nov. 6, 2012

"Essential for Manchester collectors, WWII buffs and Churchill completists."
A (very) posthumous study of the late, great British leader by the late, great popular historian, aided by journalist Reid. Read full book review >
Cover art for LEONARDO AND THE LAST SUPPER
NONFICTION
Released: Nov. 1, 2012

"Thankfully, King's book is an impressive work of restoration--the author helps readers see this painting for the first time."
An absorbing study of a disappearing masterpiece. Read full book review >
Cover art for RISE TO GREATNESS
NONFICTION
Released: Oct. 30, 2012

"A thoroughly engaging examination of the irreversible changes emerging from a year when the nation's very survival remained in doubt."
A historian zeroes in on the year Lincoln found his footing as president and set the country on a bold new course. Read full book review >
Cover art for A FREE MAN
NONFICTION
Released: Oct. 22, 2012

"Alternately sad, defiant, carefree and understated, this journey into a world hidden in plain sight is well worth taking."
A journalist ingratiates himself with a band of day laborers on the mean streets of Delhi, India. Read full book review >