Book List

12 Books That Should Be Bestsellers

FICTION

MAAME

by Jessica George

A fresh, often funny, always poignant take on the coming-of-age novel. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

BIG SWISS

by Jen Beagin

Beagin establishes her place among artfully eccentric writers like Nell Zink, Elif Batuman, and Jennifer Egan. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

OUR MIGRANT SOULS

by Héctor Tobar

A powerful look at what it means to be a member of a community that, though large, remains marginalized. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

WOMEN WE BURIED, WOMEN WE BURNED

by Rachel Louise Snyder

Exceptional writing, a harrowing coming-of-age story, and critical awareness combine to make a must-read memoir. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

HISTORY

RED MEMORY

by Tania Branigan

A heartbreaking, revelatory evocation of “the decade that cleaved modern China in two.” Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

TEENS & YOUNG ADULT

DAUGHTERS OF ODUMA

by Moses Ose Utomi

A vividly realized fantasy world centering strong girls and chosen family. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

TEENS & YOUNG ADULT

MY FLAWLESS LIFE

by Yvonne Woon

Thought-provoking high school drama with dark, serious undertones. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

TEENS & YOUNG ADULT

THE SUM OF US (ADAPTED FOR YOUNG READERS)

by Heather McGhee

Of great value to anyone who values straight-to-the-point, thorough writing on race in America. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

CHILDREN'S

CORNER

by Zo-O ; illustrated by Zo-O ; translated by Ellen Jang

A quirky, thought-provoking, and stunning reminder that a house is not a home. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

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  • The Kirkus Star

    One of the most coveted designations in the book industry, the Kirkus Star marks books of exceptional merit.

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  • The Kirkus Prize

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