Self-Published Family Memoir Receives Coveted Kirkus Star

Sept. 5, 2011 - PRLog -- Kirkus Reviews, long recognized as the gold standard for tough and impartial book reviews, has awarded the coveted Kirkus Star to Oh, Beautiful: An American Family in the 20th Century, a self-published family memoir by John Paul Godges.

Since 1933, Kirkus has published anonymous, concise book reviews for booksellers, librarians, literary agents, publishing houses, journalists, and film producers searching for good material. A Kirkus review can be anything from scathing to complimentary, but the Kirkus Star is reserved “for books of remarkable merit.”

“It’s a triumph when a traditionally published book earns a Kirkus Star,” said Godges. “But when a self-published book earns a Kirkus Star, that’s even more remarkable.”

He was impressed with the Kirkus reviewer’s thoroughness, thoughtfulness, and care in constructing a comprehensive critique in fewer than 300 words. “It’s as if the reviewer looked directly into my mind and fathomed my deepest intentions.”

Godges felt honored on many levels. “Oh, Beautiful has received numerous wonderful accolades,” he said. “But this one truly qualifies as critical acclaim.”

According to the Kirkus review of Oh, Beautiful, "The intricately crafted narrative is written with the specificity of a historian, seamlessly flowing through the decades. Yet the book is also poignant and personal, capturing the intimate, intricate workings of a family with amazing clarity."

The complete review can be viewed on the author's web site or on the Kirkus website:
http://www.johnpaulgodges.com/news110905.html
http://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/indie/john-paul...

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Oh, Beautiful: An American Family in the 20th Century is a courageous family memoir that explores what it means to be American.