Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




Off to (Home)School: Books for Younger Teens (page 2)


Cover art for THE LINE
CHILDREN'S
Released: March 1, 2010

"Well done indeed. (Science fiction. 10 & up)"
This interesting dystopic series opener from debut author Hall follows the fortunes of Rachel, whose mother, Vivian, is "Gainfully Employed" by Ms. Moore, owner of an orchid business, a "Private Enterprise." Read full book review >
Cover art for THE LAST NEWSPAPER BOY IN AMERICA
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2009

"A tidy resolution comes hastily together as "Wil of Steele" proves his mettle. (author's note) (Fiction. 9-12)"
Corbett stirs current events into an old-fashioned boy-makes-good tale with mixed results. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE HOMESCHOOL LIBERATION LEAGUE
CHILDREN'S
Released: July 1, 2009

"Many of this likable girl's experiences ring true as she explores the boundaries of education and friendship in a story that is ultimately entertaining enough but not compelling. (Fiction. 10-14)"
After spending an inspiring summer at an environmental camp, Kaity walks out in the middle of the first day of eighth grade, determined to become a homeschooler to escape the mindnumbing drudgery of the classroom. Read full book review >
Cover art for A COOL MOONLIGHT
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2003

"Poignant, evocative, and as lingering as sunburn, Lila's story is one of courage, hope, and dreams. (Fiction. 8-11)"
The innovative Johnson has crafted an original story in both content and writing style. Read full book review >
Cover art for ALICE, I THINK
CHILDREN'S
Released: June 1, 2003

"Hilarious. (Fiction. 12-14)"
Comedy rules in Juby's satirical, laugh-out-loud debut about a wacky home-schooled teenager who decides to try public high school. Read full book review >
Cover art for STARGIRL
CHILDREN'S
Released: Aug. 1, 2000

"Once again Spinelli takes his readers on a journey where choices between the self and the group must be made, and he is wise enough to show how hard they are, even when sweet. (Fiction. 11-14)"
Newbery-winning Spinelli spins a magical and heartbreaking tale from the stuff of high school. Read full book review >