Book List

The 2023 Kirkus Prize Finalists

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

BIRNAM WOOD

by Eleanor Catton

This blistering look at the horrors of late capitalism manages to also be a wildly fun read. 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 >

FICTION

THE BEE STING

by Paul Murray

A grim and demanding and irresistible anatomy of misfortune. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

LET US DESCEND

by Jesmyn Ward

Ward may not tell you anything new about slavery, but her language is saturated with terror and enchantment. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

HISTORY

RED MEMORY

by Tania Branigan

A heartbreaking, revelatory evocation of “the decade that cleaved modern China in two.” Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

MR. B

by Jennifer Homans

The definitive account of a remarkable and flawed artist. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

OUR MIGRANT SOULS

by Héctor Tobar

A powerful look at what it means to be a member of a community that, though large, remains marginalized. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

MASTER SLAVE HUSBAND WIFE

by Ilyon Woo

A captivating tale that ably captures the determination and courage of a remarkable couple. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

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  • 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.

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