Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




Top 14 Teen Books for September


Cover art for STORMDANCER
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 18, 2012

"Soars higher than the arashitora Kristoff writes about; superb. (Steampunk. 12 & up)"
Debut author Kristoff's steampunk adventure whisks readers to a Japanese dystopia where some mythological beings still exist, a few people have fantastical gifts, and all people live under tyranny. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE DIVINERS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 18, 2012

"Not for the faint of heart due to both subject and length, but the intricate plot and magnificently imagined details of character, dialogue and setting take hold and don't let go. Not to be missed. (Historical/paranormal thriller. 14 & up)"
1920s New York thrums with giddy life in this gripping first in a new trilogy from Printz winner Bray. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE RAVEN BOYS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 18, 2012

"The magic is entirely pragmatic; the impossible, extraordinarily true. (Fantasy. 13 & up)"
An ancient Welsh king may be buried in the Virginia countryside; three privileged boys hope to disinter him. Read full book review >
Cover art for FOURMILE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 18, 2012

"Deeply moving and fast-paced, this life-affirming effort is a worthy addition to the bookshelves of sturdy readers. (Fiction. 12 & up)"
Key (Alabama Moon, 2006, etc.) has crafted another powerful, riveting coming-of-age tale that doesn't stint on violence to advance the action. Read full book review >
Cover art for VESSEL
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 11, 2012

"From the gripping first line, a fast-paced, thought-provoking and stirring story of sacrifice. (Fantasy. 12 & up)"
When a summoning goes awry, Liyana must try to save her people and learn how to live for herself, in this sweeping adventure. Read full book review >
Cover art for CALL THE SHOTS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 11, 2012

"Fearlessly foul, this consistently comical series should be required reading for all teenage boys and anyone else with a strong stomach and highly sensitive funny bone. (Fiction. 14 & up)"
It's nice guy Sean's turn to shine in this hilarious follow-up to Swim the Fly (2009) and Beat the Band (2010). Read full book review >