Book List

2022 Kirkus Prize Finalists

FICTION

SCARY MONSTERS

by Michelle de Kretser

De Kretser, one of our most deeply intelligent writers, offers a book that is wry and heartbreaking, playful and profound. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

TRUST

by Hernan Diaz

A clever and affecting high-concept novel of high finance. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

GOD'S CHILDREN ARE LITTLE BROKEN THINGS

by Arinze Ifeakandu

Deftly capturing the richness and dangers of romantic connection, these stories complicate and reimagine queer narratives. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

MECCA

by Susan Straight

This is a novel that pushes back against the clichés of Southern California to reveal the complex human territory underneath. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

SCATTERED ALL OVER THE EARTH

by Yoko Tawada ; translated by Margaret Mitsutani

Who decides what’s authentic? Tawada will tell you that’s in flux and always has been. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

THE BOOKS OF JACOB

by Olga Tokarczuk ; translated by Jennifer Croft

A massive achievement that will intrigue and baffle readers for years to come. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

BY HANDS NOW KNOWN

by Margaret A. Burnham

An indispensable addition to the literature of social justice and civil rights. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

HISTORY

THE 1619 PROJECT

edited by Nikole Hannah-Jones & Caitlin Roper & Ilena Silverman & Jake Silverstein

A much-needed book that stakes a solid place in a battlefield of ideas over America’s past and present. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

THESE PRECIOUS DAYS

by Ann Patchett

An enviable life shared with candor, emotion, and knockout storytelling power. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

IN SENSORIUM

by Tanaïs

A heady pleasure of language in love with the author’s many subjects, and perfectly suited to them. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

CHILDREN'S

THE YEAR WE LEARNED TO FLY

by Jacqueline Woodson ; illustrated by Rafael López

An uplifting story that will inspire kids, especially brown girls and boys, to dream. 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

    The Kirkus Prize is among the richest literary awards in America, awarding $50,000 in three categories annually.

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