Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




New & Notable Books for Children: April 2012


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Cover art for IT JES' HAPPENED
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 1, 2012
by Don Tate, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie

"An important picture-book biography that lovingly introduces this "outsider" artist to a new generation. (source notes, afterword) (Picture book/biography. 6-11)"
Tate and Christie capture the spirit behind the work of Bill Traylor, "one of the most important self-taught American folk artists of the twentieth century." Read full book review >
Cover art for HEROES OF THE SURF
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 1, 2012
by Elisa Carbone, illustrated by Nancy Carpenter

"Riveting reading, well-timed for the centennial of the Titanic's sinking. (afterword) (Picture book. 4-8)"
Based on a true story of shipwreck and rescue, Carbone's tale is leavened with narration by Anthony, a venturesome lad whose penchant for playing pirates helps him through the harrowing event. Read full book review >
Cover art for WATER SINGS BLUE
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 1, 2012
by Kate Coombs, illustrated by Meilo So

"Share this admirable appreciation with a wide audience. (Picture book/poetry. 4-10) "
Twenty-three poems and evocative watercolor paintings pay tribute to the wonders of the ocean world. Read full book review >
Cover art for FROGS!
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 1, 2012
by Laurence Pringle, illustrated by Meryl Henderson

"Budding herpetologists will snap this one up faster than a frog can catch a fly. (author's note, answer key, list of resources for more information) (Nonfiction. 6-10) "
Science writer Pringle truly delivers with his latest, a fascinating look at the similarities and differences among the many and varied species of frogs. Read full book review >
Cover art for AUNTIE YANG'S GREAT SOYBEAN PICNIC
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 1, 2012
by Ginnie Lo, illustrated by Beth Lo

"The pleasure of finding unexpected links between a new country and the old suffuses this autobiographical outing. (glossary) (Picture book/memoir. 6-8)"
More warm family memories from the Chinese-American creators of Mahjong All Day Long (2005), with cheery illustrations painted on ceramic plates. Read full book review >
Cover art for MARTIN ON THE MOON
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 1, 2012
by Martine Audet, illustrated by Luc Melanson, translated by Sarah Quinn

"No classroom clichés here. Rather, creativity and inspired teaching in full bloom. (Picture book. 4-7) "
Daydreams on the first day of school lead to a happy ending thanks to a refreshingly responsive teacher. Read full book review >