Starred Reviews for Jenny Jackson, Bruce Feiler, Sophie Chen Keller, Ham El-Waylly and More!

By Zetta Whiting | June 1 2026 | GeneralStarred Reviews

With starred reviews from publications including Booklist, Kirkus Reviews, Library Journal, and more — your patrons will want to read these much-anticipated books that reviewers are raving about.

FICTION

A Novel

“Fueled by humor, sex, and drugs, this pointed, character-driven novel will appeal to fans of Emma Straub or Taffy Brodesser-Akner.”
—Library Journal, starred review


A Novel

“Lovely, lyrical…Keller is a master of atmosphere and detail: her elegant, evocative prose transports the reader to the crowded streets, polluted air, and harsh realities of life in China’s capital, while she deftly captures a mother’s love and a son’s devotion. Little Wonder explores themes of hope, love, and loss, resulting in a rich and resonant story with universal appeal.” —Booklist, starred review


A Novel

“Lattimore again brings tension to the forefront . . . historical fiction fans will be drawn to the major theme of young people gaining confidence set against the Prohibition era.”  —Booklist, starred review


A Novel

“A zany road trip provides a path to recovery in Parente’s equally diverting and deeply emotional debut. … The romance sizzles and the relationship between the sisters provides just as much heart. This moving tale of overcoming grief and finding love in unexpected places is sure to warm hearts.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review


A Novel

“Heartfelt and empathetic … Fleming keeps the emotions high as these two appealing characters navigate their rocky reunion…  A grounded and refreshing take on the noncommunication trope. An endearing supporting cast… adds plenty of fun. This is sure to make an impact.”
Publishers Weekly, starred review


“Series fans will be delighted with the Romeo and Juliet–inspired plotline involving a complex mystery that astounds even the peevish detective. The introduction of a member of Din’s family plus new hints about Ana’s history will have readers eager for their next adventure.”
Booklist, starred review


A Novel

“. . . Higginson demonstrates remarkable tonal command of a structurally complex story, interweaving Welsh folklore and post-Thatcher regional history with a tender romance and moments of visceral and supernatural violence. . . Higginson allows room for a variety of perspectives but keeps the focus on the powerful pull of the land, and the struggle to maintain ownership in ‘this place of hostile beauty.’ A sharply drawn, appealingly eerie tale of history, family, and companionship.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review


NONFICTION

How Ritual Created the World--and How It Can Save Us

“An inspiring and thought-provoking look at how ceremony helps us thrive.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review


The Lost Memoir

“A long-forgotten firsthand account of one of history’s greatest tragedies. . . . An essential addition to the literature of nuclear warfare.”
Kirkus Reviews, starred review


A Life According to Quantum Physics

“An unconventional take on physics that stings like an exposed nerve and shines with humanity.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review


Do-Able Dishes for Every Day: A Cookbook

“After years in Michelin-star kitchens, chef Ham El-Waylly brings his knowledge to home hearths with Hello, Home Cooking.”
BookPage, starred review


A Beginner's Guide to Growing Vegetables in Small Spaces

“The Lopezes guide readers through almost everything most gardeners need to know while demonstrating how to create a vegetable garden that is a place of beauty and bounty.” —Library Journal, starred review


80 Creative Cookies to Make, Swap, and Share

“Sure to become a flour-covered favorite for home bakers, this book feels like a cookie club that welcomes anyone with a love for cookies, from elementary school kids licking the bowl to seasoned bakers ready to develop signature desserts.” —Library Journal, starred review


A Visual History

“A splendid blend of histories: natural, cultural, and artistic…A delight for dog-loving art connoisseurs, and vice versa.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review