Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




Best Teen Books of 2012


Cover art for LOVE AND OTHER PERISHABLE ITEMS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Dec. 11, 2012

"The exactly right conclusion eschews easy resolution, though there's plenty of hope as they flounder into the future. (Fiction. 14 & up)"
A sweet and scathingly funny love story (kinda) from Australia. Read full book review >
Cover art for REACHED
CHILDREN'S
Released: Nov. 13, 2012

"With reveals seeming to arrive on almost every page, prepare to stay up all night. (author's note referencing poems and paintings) (Science fiction/romance. 13 & up)"
While staying true to the science fiction and romance at the core of Matched (2010) and Crossed (2011), the trilogy's breathless finale blossoms into a medical thriller too, adding breadth and resonance. Read full book review >
Cover art for PASSION BLUE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Nov. 6, 2012

"A rare, rewarding, sumptuous exploration of artistic passion. (author's note) (Historical fantasy. 12 & up)"
Giulia is bright, curious and a gifted artist, born to a noble father and his humble mistress in 15th-century Renaissance Italy. Now her fate rests with her father's widow, who's sending Giulia to a Padua convent. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE BRONTË SISTERS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 23, 2012

"A solid and captivating look at these remarkable pioneers of modern fiction. (notes and a comprehensive bibliography) (Biography. 12-16)"
The wild freedom of the imagination and the heart, and the tragedy of lives ended just as success is within view--such a powerful story is that of the Brontë children. Read full book review >
Cover art for ASK THE PASSENGERS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 23, 2012

"Quite possibly the best teen novel featuring a girl questioning her sexuality written in years. (Fiction. 14 & up)"
Big-town girl stuck in a small-town world full of lies falls for another girl. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE CRIMSON CROWN
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 23, 2012

"Simply brilliant. (Fantasy. 12 & up)"
Torture and treasure, treason and trust, and the triumph of true love: All come to fruition in the stirring conclusion to this epic fantasy series. Read full book review >