Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




Best Indie Books of 2012: Children & Young Adults


Cover art for CAPTAIN NO BEARD
INDIE
Released: April 12, 2012

"Roman charms with an imaginative, whimsical picture book that will entertain even the oldest pirates."
Debut author Roman pens a picture book about an imaginative boy who transforms his bed and stuffed animals into props for a marvelous pirate adventure. Read full book review >
Cover art for BITOPIA
INDIE
Released: Feb. 27, 2012

"All the fun of a children's book, coupled with the razor-sharp wit and potent insight that seasoned readers crave."
Magnusson's debut YA fantasy follows a young boy's flight from the wrath of bullies, taking him to another world from which there may be no escape. Read full book review >
Cover art for BLACKHEART'S LEGACY
INDIE
Released: June 23, 2010

"Middle-grade readers (boys especially): Don't dillydally; grab this nearly flawless book."
In the first book of debut author Copus' planned series, a boy and his grandmother travel back in time to hobnob with marauding pirates in search of hidden treasure. Read full book review >
Cover art for FALL FOR YOU
INDIE
Released: Feb. 10, 2012

"A compelling mix of action, drama and love."
Gray's (A Delightful Arrangement, 2011, etc.) young-adult novel offers a unique twist on a classic. Read full book review >
Cover art for I'M NOT PERFECT. SO WHAT?
INDIE
Released:

"A wonderful confidence-booster for kids at home and school."
A young girl builds self-esteem in Dahnke's debut children's book. Read full book review >
Cover art for LYLA LYTE AND THE LI'BERRY FRUIT
INDIE
Released: Jan. 17, 2012
by I'deyah Ricketts, illustrated by Katie Williams

"An impressive story about a girl whose courage transforms a town."
Nine-year-old author Ricketts (Where Are the Animals, 2010) returns with the adventure of Lyla Lyte, a young girl who rescues books from obscurity. Read full book review >