Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




Best Teen Books of 2012: Adrenaline Rushes (page 4)

When you curl up with a good book, do you want to feel like you're riding a roller coaster at the same time? Try one of these thrillers, survival tales or adventures.


Cover art for STREET DREAMS
CHILDREN'S
Released: March 13, 2012

"No simple coming-out story, this many-layered effort is gritty, warm and ultimately hopeful. (Fiction. 14 & up)"
Compassionate, thoughtful and expressive, this New Zealand import traces a Maori teen's journey through friendships, family, work and the realization that he is gay. Read full book review >
Cover art for BOY21
CHILDREN'S
Released: March 5, 2012

"A story that, like Finley, expresses a lot in relatively few words. (Fiction. 12 & up) "
In a town partially controlled by the Irish mob, a quiet friendship develops between two basketball players. Read full book review >
Cover art for DOUBLE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Feb. 21, 2012

"Readers who like the quick pace of Gail Giles' mysteries and the dark, finely crafted suspense of Kevin Brooks will find the perfect combination here. (Thriller. 12 & up)"
What are the odds of two identical missing boys? Read full book review >
Cover art for A MILLION SUNS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Jan. 10, 2012

"Setting and plot are the heart and soul of this ripping space thriller, and they're unforgettable. (Science fiction. 14 & up)"
Opening soon after the bleak ending of Across the Universe (2011), this captivating middle volume takes Godspeed's 2,763 residents through commotion, twists and game-changers. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE BOOK OF BLOOD AND SHADOW
CHILDREN'S
Released: Jan. 10, 2012

"A classy read that repays reader effort. (historical note) (Thriller. 12 & up)"
Here's something refreshing: a religious-historical thriller with a nifty Mobius strip of a plot—think Nancy Werlin channeling Dan Brown—serving up shivery suspense, sans fangs or fur. Read full book review >