Professional reviews are evaluations of books written by trained reviewers or critics who work for reputable publications or organizations. Our librarians use them to aid in purchasing decisions, and some of the publications we use are:
- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
A trusted resource for reviews and critical analyses of children's and young adult literature, offering insights for educators, librarians, and parents seeking quality reading recommendations for young readers.
- Horn Book
A respected voice in children's and young adult literature, The Horn Book Magazine and The Horn Book Guide provide thoughtful reviews, articles, and commentary, serving as essential resources for educators, librarians, and anyone passionate about quality literature for young readers.
- School Library Journal
A premier source for reviews and insights into children's and young adult literature, School Library Journal offers educators, librarians, and parents trusted recommendations and critical analyses to support informed decisions in selecting literature for young readers.
- Booklist
A comprehensive review publication providing librarians, educators, and book enthusiasts with expert evaluations and recommendations across various genres and formats, aiding in the selection of outstanding titles for libraries and personal collections.
- Kirkus Reviews
Known for its candid and succinct reviews, Kirkus Reviews offers insightful evaluations across a wide range of genres and age groups, helping readers discover noteworthy books while providing valuable guidance to librarians, booksellers, and literary enthusiasts.
- Publishers Weekly
A leading industry publication delivering authoritative reviews, news, and analysis for professionals in the publishing world, offering valuable insights into emerging trends, notable releases, and market dynamics.
Many of these reviews are available for everyone through the our catalog! To find professional reviews in the catalog, follow our step-by-step video below or our written instructions.
When you search for a book in the catalog, click on the title and scroll down. If you click the "Explore Summary, About The Author, and More" tab, the professional reviews are listed. Most of the reviews suggest the age or grade level they would recommend the book to. They can sometimes vary, so it is always best for the teen's guardian to look over the books themselves to determine if they are the right fit for their teen.
