Book List

Best Memorable Characters of 2016

FICTION

MY NAME IS LUCY BARTON

by Elizabeth Strout

Fiction with the condensed power of poetry: Strout deepens her mastery with each new work, and her psychological acuity has... Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

FORTY ROOMS

by Olga Grushin

Honest, tender, and exquisitely crafted. A novel to savor. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

GRACE

by Natashia Deón

A haunting, visceral novel that heralds the birth of a powerful new voice in American fiction. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

A GENTLEMAN IN MOSCOW

by Amor Towles

A masterly encapsulation of modern Russian history, this book more than fulfills the promise of Towles' stylish debut, Rules... Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

THE PORTABLE VEBLEN

by Elizabeth McKenzie

McKenzie’s idiosyncratic love story scampers along on a wonderfully zig-zaggy path, dashing and darting in delightfully... Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

More Book Lists

The Magazine: Kirkus Reviews

Featuring 286 industry-first reviews of fiction, nonfiction, children’s, and YA books; also in this issue: the 100 best Indie books of 2025, plus our favorite book news and more

subscribe
  • kirkus star
  • The Kirkus Star

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

  • kirkus prize
  • The Kirkus Prize

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

Great Books & News Curated For You

Be the first to read books news and see reviews, news and features in Kirkus Reviews. Get awesome content delivered to your inbox every week.

Thank you!

Close Quickview