Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




New & Notable Books for Teens: May 2012 (page 3)


Cover art for HAPPY FAMILIES
CHILDREN'S
Released: May 8, 2012

"Warmly drawn; a valuable conversation-starter for families like Ysabel and Justin's. (Fiction. 12 & up)"
In a compassionate family drama, twins Ysabel and Justin struggle with the revelation that their father has begun living as a woman. Read full book review >
Cover art for CHAINED
CHILDREN'S
Released: May 8, 2012

"A heartfelt if at times emotionally trying addition to the literature promoting better treatment of our fellow animals. (afterword) (Fiction. 9-12)"
Can a friendship born in mutual bondage save a boy and an elephant calf in modern India? Read full book review >
Cover art for LIA'S GUIDE TO WINNING THE LOTTERY
CHILDREN'S
Released: May 1, 2012

"Tart, funny and fast-moving, with a touch of rueful realism and a lot of heart. (Fiction. 12 & up)"
Lia Latimer is more than ready to take her future in her own hands when she wins £8 million in the lottery. She'll drop out of school, buy a flat, leave her annoying family behind. What could go wrong? Read full book review >
Cover art for INSURGENT
CHILDREN'S
Released: May 1, 2012

"Anyone who read the first book was dying for this one months ago; they'll hardly be able to wait for the concluding volume. (Science fiction. 14 & up)"
In this addictive sequel to the acclaimed Divergent (2011), a bleak post-apocalyptic Chicago ruled by "factions" exemplifying different personality traits collapses into all-out civil war. Read full book review >
Cover art for CROSSING THE LINE
CHILDREN'S
Released: May 1, 2012

"A welcome entry into the teen market, especially for Bluford Series fans. (glossary) (Fiction. 12-18)"
In the first title in the Border Town series, Alegría introduces Fabiola "Fabi" Garza, a Mexican-American teen in the fictitious Texas border town of Dos Rios. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE HERO'S GUIDE TO SAVING YOUR KINGDOM
CHILDREN'S
Released: May 1, 2012

"Inventive and hilarious, with laugh-out-loud moments on every page. (Fantasy. 8 & up)"
Instead of finding Happily Ever After with their princesses, four Princes Charming (Prince Duncan insists they pluralize the noun, not adjective) must team up on a farcical quest to save their kingdoms. Read full book review >