Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




New and Notable Titles for February (page 2)


Cover art for THE BIRD HOUSE
FICTION
Released: Feb. 1, 2011

"Hope at the bottom of the box, not least for more from this talented author."
An intergenerational school project unlocks a Pandora's box of unsettling truths. Read full book review >
Cover art for AMERICAN IDOL
NONFICTION
Released: Feb. 1, 2011

"A generous bird's-eye viewpoint of the competition from past to present--supreme fodder for Idol buffs."
A comprehensive, unfettered history of one of the most popular shows in TV history. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE CALLIGRAPHER'S SECRET
FICTION
Released: Feb. 1, 2011
by Rafik Schami, translated by Anthea Bell

"An engaging, rich, deceptively revelatory if lengthy insight into Syrian society."
Affectionate, insightful, tangential tales of life in 1950s Damascus enfold the central story of a mismatched marriage and a runaway wife. Read full book review >
Cover art for SHORTCUT MAN
FICTION
Released: Feb. 1, 2011

"This freelance vigilante fantasy is the first of a crime series most likely to appeal to movie buffs who wish the punchy dialogue from vintage film noir could be spiced with some serious sex."
The son of legendary filmmaker Preston Sturges debuts with the fast, funny, nostalgia-laden tale of a hero who slices through Gordian knots. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE DANGEROUS EDGE OF THINGS
FICTION
Released: Feb. 1, 2011

"Tai's next adventure can't come soon enough. She's adorable, Trey is worthy of her and Whittle's first foray into crime fiction is noteworthy."
If you're wondering who can give Stephanie Plum a run for her money, meet Tai Randolph. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE HIDDEN REALITY
NONFICTION
Released: Feb. 1, 2011

"The latest cosmological discoveries and speculations, directed at a popular audience but definitely not oversimplified."
An exploration of cutting-edge physics written for intelligent readers willing to pay close attention. Read full book review >