Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




Compelling Coming-of-Age Fantasies


Cover art for SALT
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2009

"Admirable characters confronting human realities make for compelling reading. (Fantasy. 11-13)"
In a fantasy world populated by evil colonizers, two children make a fresh start. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE LOST CONSPIRACY
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2009

"Brilliantly conceived, perfectly executed and utterly mesmerizing. (Fantasy. 12 & up)"
Hardinge knows the world of Gullstruck. Read full book review >
Cover art for HANNAH’S WINTER
CHILDREN'S
Released: March 1, 2009

"A fine fantasy debut (first published in Australia in 2001). (author's note) (Fantasy. 10 & up)"
Twelve-year-old Australian Hannah has been sent to spend the winter with Japanese family friends in Kanazawa so she can improve her ability to speak the language. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE GRAVEYARD BOOK
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 30, 2008
by Neil Gaiman, illustrated by Dave McKean

"Closer in tone to American Gods than to Coraline, but permeated with Bod's innocence, this needs to be read by anyone who is or has ever been a child. (Fantasy. 10 & up)"
Wistful, witty, wise—and creepy. Read full book review >
Cover art for SAVVY
CHILDREN'S
Released: May 1, 2008

"A film is already in development, and if it lives up to this marvel-laden debut, it'll be well worth seeing. (Fantasy. 10-13)"
Mibs can't wait for her 13th birthday, when her special gift, or "savvy," will awaken. Read full book review >
Cover art for TUNNELS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Feb. 1, 2008

"Dense but exciting. (Fantasy. 10-12)"
Will finds his way into a frightening underground world in this fantasy adventure. Read full book review >