Teen Librarian Toolbox
November 25, 2020 by Steven Engelfried
EVERYTHING SAD IS UNTRUE is "a beautiful testament to the power of memory and the stories we choose to tell," writes Guest Blogger Amanda Bishop. Daniel Nayeri tells this (mostly) true story of his life as a refugee with a unique and highly effective style that could earn serious Newbery Medal consideration.
November 20, 2020 by Steven Engelfried
In WAYS TO MAKE SUNSHINE, Renee Watson "has created a world for young readers that feels both fresh and familiar," according to Guest Blogger Abbie Digel. Ms. Watson won a Newbery Honor three years ago with a book about a high school student; will she match that achievement with this novel about 4th grader Ryan Clark?
November 13, 2020 by Steven Engelfried
Guest Blogger Olivia Tompkins describes Candace Fleming's latest biography as "a slow descent into the darkness of Lindbergh’s legacy." The skilled writing and the insightful perspectives about a fascinating historical figure could lift THE RISE AND FALL OF CHARLES LINDBERGH into Newbery Medal contention.
November 9, 2020 by Steven Engelfried
"A GAME OF FOX & SQUIRRELS explores the journey of a heroine, one who must learn the true meaning of the word home." Guest Blogger Meredith Leigh Burton introduces Jenn Reese's unique novel into our Mock Newbery discussion of the year's most distinguished children's books.
November 6, 2020 by Steven Engelfried
SHOW ME A SIGN "offers offers a beautiful #ownvoice examination of the Deaf community, discussion over the controversy of Native American land disputes, and a touching picture of a young girl finding her place in the world," writes Guest Blogger Alissa. Will this historical novel set in 1805 emerge as a possible choice for the 2021 Newbery Medal?
October 30, 2020 by Steven Engelfried
In Linda Sue Park's latest novel, set in the 1880s Dakota Territory, "characters exhibit empathy instead of contempt for the American Indians who were the original pioneers." Guest Blogger Michelle introduces the Newbery-worthy merits of PRAIRIE LOTUS, an "excellently crafted" children's book.
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October 23, 2020 by Steven Engelfried
A MANY FEATHERED THING "is a spot-on depiction of the utter middle-ness of adolescence." Guest Blogger Sara Beth explains why even though Lisa Gerlits' book is a "debut novel from an unknown author," it just might have a chance at a Newbery Award.
October 16, 2020 by Steven Engelfried
The title character in Kate Leyh's SNAPDRAGON is "smart, strong, brash, independent, and aware of her outsider status: it gets to her, but she refuses to be someone she's not, and that takes guts." Guest blogger Aud explores the distinguished qualities of this engaging graphic novel, which could be a contender for the 2021 Newbery Medal.
October 12, 2020 by Steven Engelfried
In his introduction to KENT STATE, Guest Blogger Leonard writes: "the book is beautiful. It is powerful. It directly and continually involves the reader from the very first line." Join the Mock-Newbery discussion of Deborah Wiles' innovative book.
October 9, 2020 by Steven Engelfried
Guest blogger Lynette notes that In KING AND THE DRAGONFLIES, "Grief can...reside in the conversations that we have and the words, both said and unsaid, the dead leave behind..." Join our Mock Newbery discussion of Kacen Callender's powerful novel.
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Teen Librarian Toolbox
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