Book List

20 Best Books To Read in August

FICTION

TOM LAKE

by Ann Patchett

Poignant and reflective, cementing Patchett’s stature as one of our finest novelists. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

WITNESS

by Jamel Brinkley

After just two collections, Brinkley may already be a grand master of the short story. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

HAPPINESS FALLS

by Angie Kim

The claim that a book will change your life often seems like exaggeration. Here the potential is real. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

THE HEAVEN & EARTH GROCERY STORE

by James McBride

If it’s possible for America to have a poet laureate, why can’t James McBride be its storyteller-in-chief? Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

THE DEADLINE

by Jill Lepore

A noteworthy collection from an indispensable writer and thinker. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

ALTHEA

by Sally H. Jacobs

An essential book about an incomparably authentic American pioneer and the times in which she lived. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

HISTORY

VALIANT WOMEN

by Lena Andrews

An invaluable addition to our knowledge of the Allied victory. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

TEENS & YOUNG ADULT

UNNECESSARY DRAMA

by Nina Kenwood

Sidesplitting comic writing and an appealingly messy protagonist to root for. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

TEENS & YOUNG ADULT

MORE THAN A DREAM

by Yohuru Williams & Michael G. Long

Coherent, compellingly passionate, rich in sometimes-startling and consistently well-founded insights. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

CHILDREN'S

SALSA MAGIC

by Letisha Marrero

An uplifting, beautifully rendered story of family bonds and embracing the unknown. 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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