Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




New & Notable Books for Children: April 2012 (page 2)


Cover art for THE DUCKLING GETS A COOKIE!?
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 3, 2012
by Mo Willems, illustrated by Mo Willems

"Just as enjoyable as a read-aloud to a group or as a one-on-one lapsit, it's a pleasure to see Willems at the top of his game, and The Pigeon suitably humbled. (Picture book. 3-8)"
Everyone's favorite grouch of a fowl returns, though the spotlight is firmly fixed elsewhere. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE BEETLE BOOK
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 3, 2012
by Steve Jenkins, illustrated by Steve Jenkins

"Otherwise, distinguished both as natural history and work of art. (Nonfiction. 7-12) "
Jenkins' splendid array of beetles will surely produce at least one budding coleopterist. Read full book review >
Cover art for HORTEN'S MIRACULOUS MECHANISMS
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 3, 2012

"A vastly engaging, must-read mystery infused with the perfect touch of captivating conjuration--er, magic. (Mystery. 9-14)"
Wacky, funny and ever so mysterious, this clever tale hits the ground running and never lets up. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE ADVENTURES OF SIR BALIN THE ILL-FATED
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 3, 2012
by Gerald Morris, illustrated by Aaron Renier

"Shame on you, Gerald Morris, for treating the Matter of Britain with insufficient solemnity. (Snicker.) (Fantasy. 9-11)"
Prophecies. A young knight learns that they're just not to be trusted in this fourth of the light-hearted Arthurian Knights' Tales. Read full book review >
Cover art for GEM
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 3, 2012
Kirkus Star GEM
by Holly Hobbie, illustrated by Holly Hobbie

"A stunning gem indeed. (notes about toads) (Picture book. 2-5)"
Hobbie explores the wonders of spring through the eyes of a toad that survives the perils and pleasures of its trek to a country garden, where he encounters the author's granddaughter, Hope. Read full book review >
Cover art for CAPTAIN AWESOME TO THE RESCUE!
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 3, 2012
by Stan Kirby, illustrated by George O'Connor

"As Captain Awesome would say, this kid is "MI-TEE!" (Fiction. 5-8)"
The town of Sunnyview got a little bit safer when 8-year-old Eugene McGillicudy moved in. Read full book review >