2021 Kirkus Prize Finalists

by Mariana Enríquez ; translated by Megan McDowell

Insidiously absorbing, like quicksand. Full review >

by Honorée Fanonne Jeffers

If this isn’t the Great American Novel, it's a mighty attempt at achieving one. Full review >

by Jocelyn Nicole Johnson

A sharp debut by a writer with wit and confidence. Full review >

by Pajtim Statovci ; translated by David Hackston

An unflinching consideration of the long aftereffects of an affair cut short. Full review >

by Colson Whitehead

As one of Whitehead’s characters might say of their creator, When you’re hot, you’re hot. Full review >

by Joy Williams

An enigmatic, elegant meditation on the end of civilization—if end it truly is. Full review >

by Brian Broome

A stellar debut memoir. Full review >

by Dara Horn

A riveting, radical, essential revision of the stories we all know—and some we don't. Full review >

by Tiya Miles

A strikingly vivid account of the impact of connection on this family and others. Full review >

by Kristen Radtke ; illustrated by Kristen Radtke

Superb. A rigorous, vulnerable book on a subject that is too often neglected. Full review >

by Katherine E. Standefer

An intensely personal and brave accounting of a medical battle and the countless hidden costs of health care. Full review >

by Juan Villoro ; translated by Alfred MacAdam

An unparalleled portrait of a city in danger of growing past all reasonable limits. Full review >

by NoNieqa Ramos ; illustrated by Jacqueline Alcántara

Perfectly dazzling. Full review >

by Carole Boston Weatherford ; illustrated by Floyd Cooper

A somber, well-executed addition to the history as the incident approaches its 100th anniversary. Full review >

by Nikki Grimes

Black girls everywhere, this collection is salve and sanctuary. Full review >

by Christina Soontornvat

Thoughtfully researched, expertly crafted. Full review >

by Wai Chim

Gritty details lend depth to this viscerally powerful tale of a teen struggling to help her troubled family. Full review >

by Sharon G. Flake

A vivid and important depiction of the struggles of too many teens. Full review >