Book List

2021 Kirkus Prize Finalists

FICTION

THE LOVE SONGS OF W.E.B. DU BOIS

by Honorée Fanonne Jeffers

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

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

BOLLA

by Pajtim Statovci ; translated by David Hackston

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

FULL REVIEW >

THRILLER & SUSPENSE

HARLEM SHUFFLE

by Colson Whitehead

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

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

HARROW

by Joy Williams

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

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

PEOPLE LOVE DEAD JEWS

by Dara Horn

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

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

ALL THAT SHE CARRIED

by Tiya Miles

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

FULL REVIEW >

GRAPHIC NOVELS & COMICS

SEEK YOU

by Kristen Radtke ; illustrated by Kristen Radtke

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

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

LIGHTNING FLOWERS

by Katherine E. Standefer

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

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

HORIZONTAL VERTIGO

by Juan Villoro ; translated by Alfred MacAdam

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

FULL REVIEW >

CHILDREN'S

UNSPEAKABLE

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 >

FULL REVIEW >

CHILDREN'S

LEGACY

by Nikki Grimes

Black girls everywhere, this collection is salve and sanctuary. 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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