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JANE ADDAMS PEACE AWARD - HONOR☮️

THIS LAND IS YOUR LAND

AUTHOR - WOODY GUTHRIE

GRADES - 3-6

HONORS/AWARDS ☮️👍

JANE ADDAMS CHILDREN’S BOOK AWARD - HONOR

A national committee of members with passion for and expertise in children’s literature and social justice is responsible for making the choices each year.

AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION - NOTABLE CHILDREN’S BOOK

COOPERATIVE CHILDREN’S BOOK CENTER (CCBC)👍

A best of the year list of Pre-K-12 books created annually by librarians.


THEME - CELEBRATING DIVERSITY

The song is the content along with beautiful paintings. Almost every page contains tiny bits of information complimenting the art work.

There is also a brief two page bio on Woody.

At the back of the book, there is background information on all of the paintings. If you love the song, you will absolutely love this book. This is a beauty!

GENRE - CHILDREN'S PICTURE BOOK

FOR DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS

NO QUESTIONS ASKED.

NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY - BEST CHILDREN'S BOOKS OF 2016

LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD - The Life and Times of Pete Seeger

AUTHOR - ANITA SILVEY

GRADES - 5 AND UP

BUY NOW $15.50 HARDCOVER, NEW - 😊POSTAGE INCLUDED

HONORS/AWARDS👍🏿👍🏿

BOOKLIST - STARRED REVIEW - TOP TEN BIOGRAPHIES FOR YOUTH - 2017

JUNIOR LIBRARY GUILD SELECTION

NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY - BEST BOOKS FOR KIDS - 2016👍🏿

CHILDREN’S BOOK REVIEW - BEST CHILDREN’S BOOKS OF 2016👍🏿

THEMES - PEACE, JUSTICE, CARE FOR THE PLANET, COURAGE

In the mid fifties when I was a teenager, I walked into my neighbor’s house and heard a song about a lion. It was Pete singing Wimoweh. I fell in love with the guy immediately. I’ve been to many of his concerts when he was a member of the Weavers as well as his subsequent solo performances. During the nineties, I attended one of the Clearwater festivals. I was sitting on a bench listening to a folksinger, when Pete walked in and sat next to me. Even though I knew what he looked like, I couldn’t believe that he was there. As he left the tent, I introduced myself and we talked as if we were old friends. He couldn’t have been more personable. I share these experiences because I want you to know how impressed I was reading this  biography. Although the book has only 103 pages, the author manages to capture the spirit of Pete’s life as she describes his privileged childhood, his friendship with Woody, blacklisting, singing for civil rights, and cleaning the Hudson. I discovered this book online while I was searching for something else. What a lucky find! If you love Pete, then this is the book for your child.

GENRE - YOUNG ADULT BIOGRAPHY

FOR DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS

NO QUESTIONS ASKED.

NOTABLE BOOKS FOR A GLOBAL SOCIETY☮️

PATHS TO PEACE - PEOPLE WHO CHANGED THE WORLD

AUTHOR - JANE BRESKIN ZALBEN

GRADES - 4-8

HONORS/AWARDS ☮️

NOTABLE BOOKS FOR A GLOBAL SOCIETY AWARD☮️

This is an annual list of 25 books created by the International Literacy Association which enhance student understanding of people and cultures.


TEACHERS’ CHOICE AWARD

THEME - CARING FOR EACH OTHER

What looks like a children’s picture book is really a good read for any student over the age of ten as the author presents a wonderful introduction to 16 people who made a positive impact on the world. Included are some lesser known names such as Wangari Maathai, Aung San Suu Kyi, and Elie Wiesel, along with the famous such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Mahatma Gandhi. Each person is given two pages - one a work of art and the other a short biography listing the highlights of their lives. A bibliography and a glossary follows these presentations which allow readers to seek further information and expand their vocabularies.

GENRE - CHILDREN'S BIOGRAPHY

FOR DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS

1. Which person impressed you the most? Explain.

2. Which quotation means the most to you? Why?

GREEN EARTH BOOK AWARD - HONOR☮️

ONE PLASTIC BAG

AUTHOR - MIRANDA PAUL

GRADES - 1-4

HONORS/AWARDS ☮️ ☮️ ☮️

GREEN EARTH BOOK AWARD - HONOR☮️

 is the nation’s first environmental stewardship book award for children and young adult books.

EL DIA DE LOS NINOS/EL DIA DE LOS LIBROS SELECTION☮️

Highlighting diverse children’s books to honor the culture and languages of all children

WE ARE KID LIT COLLECTIVE SUMMER READING LISTS☮️

recognizing the humanity of Indigenous and People of Color (IPOC) in youth literature, people with disabilities, and people from the LGBTQIA+ communities

CHILDREN’S AFRIKANA BOOK AWARD - COMMENDED

THEME - PROTECT THE PLANET

When goats die after eating plastic bags, a young woman decides to do something about plastic bag pollution. She collects the bags and washes them. Then she makes plastic threads which she crochets into purses. Other women also follow suit and donate part of their earnings to improve the health of their community. This is a wonderful story that promotes ecological awareness and illustrates how one person can make a difference. The author provides added information about this project along with a short bibliography of similar books.

GENRE - CHILDREN'S PICTURE BOOK

FOR DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS

What can you do to make your community a better place?

NOTABLE BOOKS FOR A GLOBAL SOCIETY ☮️

WE ARE GRATEFUL - OTSALIHELIGA

AUTHOR - TRACI SORELL

GRADES - 1-4

HONORS/AWARDS ☮️ ☮️ ☮️ 👍 👍 👍

EL DIA DE LOS NINOS/EL DIA DE LOS LIBROS SELECTION☮️

Highlighting diverse children’s books to honor the culture and languages of all children

NOTABLE BOOKS FOR A GLOBAL SOCIETY AWARD☮️

This is an annual list of 25 books created by the International Literacy Association which enhance student understanding of people and cultures.


WE ARE KID LIT COLLECTIVE SUMMER READING LISTS☮️

recognizing the humanity of Indigenous and People of Color (IPOC) in youth literature, people with disabilities, and people from the LGBTQIA+ communities

ROBERT F. SIBERT BOOK AWARD - HONOR 👍

This award is presented annually to the writer and illustrator of the most distinguished informational book published in English during the preceding year.

BOSTON GLOBE -HORN BOOK AWARD - HONOR 👍

COOPERATIVE CHILDREN’S BOOK CENTER (CCBC)👍

A best of the year list of Pre-K-12 books created annually by librarians.

THEME - APPRECIATING NATURE, APPRECIATING EACH OTHER

The author, a member of the Cherokee Nation, takes readers on a journey through the seasons as experienced by her people. She also provides the Cherokee alphabet designed by Sequoia and historical notes. Readers will learn that people can exist very happily without being connected to Wal-Mart and Amazon.

GENRE - CHILDREN'S PICTURE BOOK - NATIVE AMERICANS

FOR DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS

1. The Cherokees enjoyed doing many things. What looks like the most fun to 

    you?  Why?

2. What is your favorite season? Why?

CORETTA SCOTT KING AWARD - NEW TALENT WINNER ☮️

THE SKIN I'M IN

AUTHOR - SHARON G. FLAKE

GRADES - 5 - 8

HONORS/AWARDS ☮️ ☮️ 👍🏿👍🏿

CORETTA SCOTT KING AWARD - NEW TALENT WINNER☮️

The Award is given to an African American author and illustrator for outstanding inspirational and educational contributions. The Coretta Scott King Book Award titles promote understanding and appreciation of the culture of all peoples and their contribution to the realization of the American dream of a pluralistic society.The Award is further designed to commemorate the life and works of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and to honor Mrs. Coretta Scott King for her courage and determination to continue the work for peace and world brotherhood.

NOTABLE BOOKS FOR A GLOBAL SOCIETY AWARD☮️

This is an annual list of 25 books created by the International Literacy Association which enhance student understanding of people and cultures.


COOPERATIVE CHILDREN’S BOOK CENTER (CCBC)👍🏿

A best of the year list of Pre-K-12 books created annually by librarians.

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY - STARRED REVIEW

AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION - BEST BOOKS FOR YOUNG ADULTS👍🏿

THEME - SELF-ACCEPTANCE

Issues of race and self-esteem are developed through the character of Maleeka Madison who feels uncomfortable because her skin is very dark. She also has to deal with a powerful group of nasty girls who tease her about her looks and clothing. When she meets her new teacher who has a birthmark on her face, she discovers that looks aren’t everything. The author plays on the theme of beauty is in the eye of the beholder to create a coming-of-age novel of self-acceptance. 

GENRE - YOUNG ADULT - REALISTIC FICTION

FOR DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS

1. What would you say to a group of girls who judged people by the way they 

    looked?

2. Would you like to have a teacher like Miss Saunders? Explain.

NATIONAL BOOK AWARD FOR YOUNG PEOPLE'S LITERATURE - FINALIST

HEY, KIDDO

AUTHOR - JARRETT J. KROSOCZKA

GRADES - 5 AND UP

HONORS/AWARDS ☮️ ☮️ 👍👍👍👍👍👍

NATIONAL BOOK AWARD FOR YOUNG PEOPLE’S LITERATURE - FINALIST👍

CYBILS  AWARD  - WINNER ☮️

seeks out and recognizes books that represent diversity, inclusion, and appropriate representation for children and teens

BOSTON GLOBE HORN BOOK AWARD - HONOR 👍

IN THE MARGINS☮️

To seek out and highlight fiction and non-fiction titles of high-interest appeal for male or female readers, ages 9-21, who may fit into one or all of the following categories that identify with:

– *BIPOC youth

– youth from a street culture

– youth in restrictive custody

– youth who are reluctant readers

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL - BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR👍

YALSA NON-FICTION AWARD - FINALIST👍

GOLDEN KITE AWARD - HONOR👍

The Golden Kite Awards are given annually by the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, an international children's writing organization, to recognize excellence in children’s literature. 


GREAT GRAPHIC NOVELS FOR TEENS - COMMENDED👍

THEME - WORK HARD AND FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS

In this graphic memoir, the author describes how he dealt with a missing father and a mother in jail. He was raised by his grandfather who had problems with alcohol and his grandmother who was often verbally abusive. Turmoil and conflict was a constant, particularly when he graduated middle school and was sent to a parochial school causing him to lose most of his friends. As a freshman, he was tormented by the older kids. His only escape was to take advantage of his artistic ability by drawing cartoons for the school paper and participating in other art activities. He eventually located his father and they became close. His mother was in and out of jail and at one point he told her that his grandmother was his real mother because she was always there for him. Readers will likely gain a better understanding of life’s issues and how to cope with them. They will also see the importance of defining who you are and how you would like to spend your adult life.

GENRE - YOUNG ADULT - REALISTIC FICTION

FOR DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS

1. Why do you think the author wrote this book?

2. Finish this sentence. If I were Jarrett, I never would have...

GREEN EARTH BOOK AWARD - HONOR☮️

UNTAMED - THE WILD LIFE OF JANE GOODALL

AUTHOR - ANITA SILVEY

GRADES - 5 AND UP

BUY NOW $18.00 HARDCOVER, NEW 😊POSTAGE INCLUDED

HONORS/AWARDS ☮️

GREEN EARTH BOOK AWARD - HONOR☮️

 is the nation’s first environmental stewardship book award for children and young adult books.

NORMAN A. SUGARMAN CHILDREN’S BIOGRAPHY AWARD - WINNER

SB & F PRIZE FOR EXCELLENCE IN SCIENCE BOOKS - FINALIST

JUNIOR LIBRARY GUILD SELECTION

NOTABLE SOCIAL STUDIES TRADE BOOK FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY - STARRED REVIEW

THEME - CARING FOR ANIMALS

I always admired Jane Goodall for her dedication and sacrifice as she became a pioneer in the study of chimp behavior. In this National Geographic biography we learn how her childhood fascination with animals influenced her as she later became the leading advocate of preserving endangered animal habitats. Young readers will be able to connect the narrative to the numerous photos  which make this book a pleasure to read. They will also be encouraged to carry on her 

work by joining conservation groups such as Roots and Shoots. This carefully researched book is filled with fun facts that will amaze most readers.

GENRE - YOUNG ADULT BIOGRAPHY

FOR DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS

1. Before reading this book, I never knew that …………………..   .

2. Jane spent most of her life studying chimp behavior. If you became a zoologist, 

    what animal would you like to study? Why?

OFFICIAL CHILDREN’S BOOK OF MASSACHUSETTS

MAKE WAY FOR DUCKLINGS

AUTHOR - ROBERT MCCLOSKEY

GRADES - 2-4

BUY NOW $15.00 HARDCOVER, NEW 😊POSTAGE INCLUDED

HONORS/AWARDS

INDIES CHOICE BOOK AWARDS  - PICTURE BOOK HALL OF 

     FAME

CALDECOTT MEDAL - WINNER

OFFICIAL CHILDREN’S BOOK OF MASSACHUSETTS

OVER 5 MILLION BOOKS SOLD

THEMES - CARING FOR ANIMALS, APPRECIATING NATURE

I read this book to my fourth grade class in 1962 and it has been on the top of my list ever since. The plot is simple. Two mallards decide that country living was too dangerous a place to raise a family, so they decide to move to Boston where they encounter a whole series of new obstacles. Thanks to an understanding police force, they are able to survive the various city hazards. The illustrations are outstanding which allow for large group presentations. You absolutely cannot go wrong with this book. Kids love it!

GENRE - CHILDREN'S PICTURE BOOK

FOR DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS

1. How can you help wild animals?

2. Do you think the ducks will continue to live in the city? Why?

NEWBERY MEDAL - WINNER

The Giver by Lois Lowry

GIVER, THE

AUTHOR - LOIS LOWRY

GRADES - MATURE 4-8

😪WARNING! THIS BOOK HAS BEEN BANNED!😪

BUY NOW $14.00 HARDCOVER, NEW - 😊POSTAGE INCLUDED

HONORS/AWARDS☮️👍👍👍

NEWBERY MEDAL - WINNER - 👍

The Newbery, is a literary award given by the Association for Library Service to Children, to the author of "the most distinguished contributions to American literature for children”.


MARGARET A. EDWARDS AWARD☮️

Honoring books that help adolescents become aware of themselves and address questions about their role and importance in relationships, society, and the world

MYTHOPOEIC FANTASY AWARD

Honoring a fantasy book or books in the traditions of The Hobbit of the Chronicles of Narnia

BOSTON GLOBE HORN BOOK - HONOR 👍

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL - BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR  👍

AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSN. - BEST BOOKS FOR YOUNG ADULTS

NEW JERSEY GARDEN STATE TEEN BOOK AWARD  

VIRGINIA YOUNG READERS' PROGRAM AWARD

KANSAS WILLIAM WHITE AWARD

THEMES - THE VALUE OF MEMORY AND THE VALUE OF THE INDIVIDUAL

Readers are introduced to a "perfect" society, where lying is forbidden, the weather is always the same, and colors do not exist. The inhabitants have no choices as everything is decided by the Council of Elders. The story revolves around a boy named Jonas, who is chosen to receive memories from an old man known as The Giver. The boy discovers some terrible secrets about his world and begins to realize that his society is not so perfect after all. The Giver is a thought provoking story which is bound to please your more able students. The author raises all sorts of issues such as if you cannot contribute to society, should you be allowed to live in it? This book should be read independently. It is part of a four book series - GATHER BLUE, THE MESSENGER, and SON.

GENRE - DYSTOPIAN NOVEL

FOR DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS

1.The Giver has won over a dozen awards. Why do you think this book is so 

   popular?    

   Answers will vary. 

2. Should babies be allowed to live if they are born with a disease that has  no 

    cure? 

    Explain your answer.
    

   Answers will vary.


3. In The Giver, once people become too old to contribute to society, they are

    murdered.  Is this a good idea?  Explain your answer.
    

    Answers will vary.


4. At the end of the story, what do you think happened to Jonas?
    

    I have experienced many lively discussions about this question. It 

    appears as  though he dies, but the author does not give absolute  proof 

    that this was the case. Jonas escapes his community with a 
baby named 

    Gabriel. They sleigh down a hill and enter a world of singing and 

    happiness. Is this a dream,  heaven, or the real thing? 

VOICE OF YOUTH ADVOCATES - (VOYA) PERFECT TEN

GATHERING BLUE

AUTHOR - LOIS LOWRY

GRADES - 5-7

BUY NOW $14.00 HARDCOVER, NEW - 😊 POSTAGE INCLUDED

HONORS/AWARDS 👍

VOICE OF YOUTH ADVOCATES  (VOYA)👍

 “Hard to imagine it being any better written” A Perfect Ten - This magazine is the leading library journal dedicated to the needs of young adult librarians, the advocacy of young adults, and the promotion of young adult literature and reading. Its most prestigious award is a Perfect Ten. This is given to a book that gets a five star rating for quality and a five star rating for popularity. 

BOOKLIST - STARRED REVIEW

THEME - STRUGGLE TO SURVIVE IN A "ME FIRST" SOCIETY

This futuristic novel takes place in an emotionally starved community where technology rules and weakness is not tolerated. It is in this setting where a young girl, Kira, orphaned and lame from birth, emerges. She was born with a deformed leg, however, her mother protected her. As the story opens, about thirteen years have passed, and Kira’s mother just died. Some of the women decide to kill her because she cannot contribute anything to the village.However, she is allowed to live because of her skill at embroidery. Kira meets two other young people who are also very creative. This trio challenges their society and the reader to question what is important in life. Gathering Blue is part two of a four part series

which include The Giver, Messenger, and Son. Having received a Perfect Ten from VOYA, this novel is a the perfect followup to The Giver.

GENRE - DYSTOPIAN NOVEL

FOR DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS

1. Kira lives in a village that is very different from the place
 where you live. She

    hopes to make it a better place.
 What don’t you like about her village? If you 

    could 
change your neighborhood, how would you do it so that
 it would be 

    perfect for you?     

    Answers will vary. 

2. Kira was told to that her father was killed by a beast.  Later, she realizes that

    people have lied to her, as
 there are no beasts. Did you ever think something 

    was 
 true, only to find out that it wasn’t true? 

    Explain. How did
 you feel about it? 

3. Compare and contrast yourself to Kira. Use personality 
and examples of 

    behavior in your answer.
   

    Kira was a survivor. She had to make decisions for 
herself because there

    was no adult to care for her.
    

    Kira was brave. She walked to Annabella alone even 
though she thought that 

    there were beasts in the 
woods. She also decided to stay, rather than return to 

   
 safety with her father.     

    She was creative. She achieved recognition as a 
weaver.     

    She was caring. She worried about the girl singer and
 tried to help her. She

    also worried about Matt’s 
 disappearance and tried to find him. 

BOOKLIST - STARRED REVIEW

MESSENGER

AUTHOR - LOIS LOWRY

GRADES - 4-8

BUY NOW $15.00 HARDCOVER, NEW 😊POSTAGE INCLUDED

HONORS/AWARDS

COOPERATIVE CHILDREN’S BOOK CENTER (CCBC)

A best of the year list of Pre-K-12 books created annually by librarians.

YOUNG HOOSIER BOOK AWARD -  NOMINATED

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY - STARRED REVIEW

KIRKUS - STARRED REVIEW

BOOKLIST - STARRED REVIEW

THEMES - SELFLESSNESS VS. SELFISHNESS, GREED

In this third book of the tetralogy, we find Matty, now a young teen, living with Seer, in a place called Village. This utopian town welcomes refugees and admires people with physical disabilities. Everyone seems to get along in this caring place. However, things begin to change. Matt and Seer sense that something evil is happening as the once friendly inhabitants are now acting unkindly toward one another. They feel threatened by outsiders and decide to build a wall to keep them out. Matt, who is the town messenger, is told to post signs throughout the forest warning newcomers to turn around and go back home.

He decides to return to his old home to bring Kira, Seer’s daughter, to the town before the wall is built. However, as he walks through the once friendly forest, it attacks him and Kira. He must use his newly discovered power to bring Kira to safety. In the process he perishes, but is able to bring peace and understanding to his neighbors.

Like the first two books in the series, Lowry offers a plethora of thought - provoking situations which should initiate some lively discussions and debate.

GENRE - YOUNG ADULT - DYSTOPIAN NOVEL

FOR DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS

1. Do you think Matty knew that he would not survive his trip back to 

    Village?

2.   Beside Matty, who do you think is the most important character in 
the story? 

      Seer - He practically raised Matty and treated him like a son.

3.   What life lessons could you learn from Kira and Seer?

      Don’t underestimate people with disabilities. 
Use your strengths to succeed 

      in life.

BOOKLIST - STARRED REVIEW

SON

AUTHOR - LOIS LOWRY

GRADES - 4-8

HONORS/AWARDS

COOPERATIVE CHILDREN’S BOOK CENTER (CCBC)

A best of the year list of Pre-K-12 books created annually by librarians.

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL - BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY - BEST BOOKS

ASSOCIATION FOR LIBRARY SERVICE TO CHILDREN (ALSC) - NOTABLE 

      CHILDREN’S BOOK

KIRKUS REVIEWS - STARRED REVIEW

BOOKLIST - STARRED REVIEW

THEMES - LOVE, SACRIFICE, LOSS

In the fourth and final book of this dystopian adventure, the author takes us back to “the scene of the crime” where we learn about Gabe’s mother, as well as bringing us up to date regarding Jonas. Most of the story centers upon Claire who, after giving birth to Gabe, has strong maternal feelings toward him because she did not take the meds which controlled these impulses. She escapes from her village to find her son. I think most readers will be satisfied by the manner in

which all the loose ends have been tied together. I recommend that the books be read sequentially as I found myself returning to incidents in the other books. This tetralogy is a total page turner. If you enjoyed The Giver, the other three are must reads.

GENRE - YOUNG ADULT - DYSTOPIAN NOVEL

FOR DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS

1. What do you think about the way the novel ended? Explain.

2. Why didn’t Jonas bring Gabe with him when he visited his ailing mother?

3. What do you think Gabe will be doing in ten years?

JANE ADDAMS PEACE AWARD - HONOR☮️

HOW DO YOU SPELL UNFAIR? MacNolia Cox and the National Spelling Bee

AUTHOR - CAROLE BOSTON WEATHERFORD

GRADES - 3 - 6

HONORS/AWARDS☮️☮️☮️👍🏿

CORETTA SCOTT KING AWARD - HONOR☮️

The Award is given to an African American author and illustrator for outstanding inspirational and educational contributions. The Coretta Scott King Book Award titles promote understanding and appreciation of the culture of all peoples and their contribution to the realization of the American dream of a pluralistic society.The Award is further designed to commemorate the life and works of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and to honor Mrs. Coretta Scott King for her courage and determination to continue the work for peace and world brotherhood.

JANE ADDAMS CHILDREN’S BOOK AWARD - FINALIST☮️

A national committee of members with passion for and expertise in children’s literature and social justice is responsible for making the choices each year.

CENTER FOR THE STUDY OF MULTICULTURAL CHILDREN’S LITERATURE BEST BOOKS ☮️

a committee of the Center for the Study of Multicultural Children’s Literature (CSMCL) identifies the best in multicultural books.

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL - BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR👍🏿

The School Library Journal is an American monthly magazine with articles and reviews for school librarians, media specialists, and public librarians who work  with young people.

BOOKLIST - STARRED REVIEW

THEMES - RACISM, DISCRIMINATION

In 1936, eight grader MacNolia Cox became the first black contestant to win the state spelling bee in Ohio. When she left to compete in the National Spelling Bee in Washington, thousands of people gathered at the train station to wish her luck. However, her happiness began to fade when the train entered Maryland and she and her mother were forced to sit in the back of the train because of their race. During the spelling bee, MacNolia sat at a separate table from all of the white contestants. When she advanced to the final round of five, officials began to get nervous at the prospect of a black girl becoming the winner, so they broke the rule which caused her to misspell a word. The title is most appropriate.

GENRE - CHILDREN'S PICTURE BOOK - BLACK HISTORY

FOR DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS

1. Why did the judges want MacNolia to lose?

    They didn’t want her to win because that would mean that blacks are just 

    as smart as white people.

2. Do you think MacNolia would have gone to Washington if she knew what was

    going to happen to her?

    Probably. She enjoyed the sightseeing and the welcome home parade. 

    She also won $75.00.

JANE ADDAMS PEACE AWARD - WINNER☮️

THE LOST YEAR

AUTHOR - KATHERINE MARSH

GRADES - 5 - 8

HONORS/AWARDS☮️👍👍👍

JANE ADDAMS CHILDREN’S BOOK AWARD - WINNER☮️

A national committee of members with passion for and expertise in children’s literature and social justice is responsible for making the choices each year.

NATIONAL BOOK AWARD FOR YOUNG PEOPLE’S LITERATURE - FINALIST👍

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL - BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR👍

NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY - BEST BOOK OF 2023👍

THEMES - SURVIVAL, BRUTALITY, BONDING

This is the first children’s/young adult book that has come to my attention dealing with the Russian atrocities during the Stalin years. The story centers on three Ukrainian girls who are cousins. Two live in Russia and one lives in Brooklyn. We learn about their lives through journals and notes kept by one of the girls who is now 100 years old. She is the great grandmother of thirteen-year-old Matthew. Due to Covid restrictions, Matthew has time on hands and with the help of his GG, the story of the three cousins comes to life. He discovers a life shattering secret as well as a tale of deception, torture, and famine. Readers will learn about life in Russia during the 1930’s and how people suffered as they tried to survive Stalin’s inhumane policies.

GENRE - YOUNG ADULT - HISTORICAL FICTION - RUSSIA UNDER STALIN

FOR DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS

1. Do you think Matthew would have discovered his GG’s secret if Covid didn’t 

    occur?

    Answers will vary.

2. Should GG have told the truth when she came to the United States? Explain.

JANE ADDAMS PEACE AWARD - WINNER☮️

A SONG FOR THE UNSUNG - Bayard Rustin, the Man Behind the 1963 March on Washington

AUTHOR - CAROLE BOSTON WEATHERFORD AND ROB SANDERS

GRADES - 4 - 6

HONORS/AWARDS☮️☮️☮️

JANE ADDAMS CHILDREN’S BOOK AWARD - WINNER☮️

A national committee of members with passion for and expertise in children’s literature and social justice is responsible for making the choices each year.

LAMBDA LITERARY AWARD - FINALIST☮️

Lambda Literary Awards, also known as the "Lammys", are awarded yearly by Lambda Literary to recognize the crucial role LGBTQ writers play in shaping the world. The Lammys celebrate the very best in LGBTQ literature.

RAINBOW LIST: TOP TEN LGBTQ BOOKS FOR CHILDREN AND TEENS - 

        COMMENDED☮️

NOTABLE SOCIAL STUDIES TRADE BOOK FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

BOOKLIST - STARRED REVIEWNATIONAL BOOK AWARD FOR YOUNG 

THEMES - OVERCOMING ADVERSITY, FIGHTING FOR YOUR RIGHTS

While many Americans are familiar with the 1963 march on Washington and the “I Have a Dream” speech, they are probably unaware of the organization and planning that allowed hundreds of thousands of people to come and leave this historical event. The man behind the scenes was Bayard Rustin, a gay black man who experienced prejudice on both fronts. He was even shunned by King’s closest advisors. Yet, he was not deterred as he enlisted singers and speakers, raised money, created banners and posters, encouraged people to volunteer, and scheduled various means of transportation. This is a wonderful read for children who are trying to get a handle on the Civil Rights movement and why it was necessary.

GENRE - CHILDREN'S PICTURE BOOK BIOGRAPHY

FOR DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS

1. What do you think was the hardest part of organizing the march?

2. What do you think the title of the book means?                     

NEWBERY MEDAL - HONOR☮️

ECHO

AUTHOR - PAM MUNOZ RYAN

GRADES - 4 - 10

HONORS/AWARDS☮️☮️👍👍👍👍👍

YOUNG AMERICAS AWARD - WINNER

The Américas Award is an annual award that honors children's and young adult books that portray Latin America, the Caribbean, or Latinos in the U.S

NOTABLE BOOKS FOR A GLOBAL SOCIETY - SELECTION☮️👍

This is an annual list of 25 books created by the International Literacy Association which enhance student understanding of people and cultures.
CHILDREN’S FAVORITE AWARD - SELECTION👍

Recognizing books evaluated and voted on by children as books they really enjoy reading.


NOTABLE CHILDREN’S BOOKS IN THE LANGUAGE ARTS AWARD - SELECTON


INTERNATIONAL LATINO CHILDREN’S BOOK AWARD - HONOR


ODYESSEY AWARD - HONOR

NEWBERY MEDAL - HONOR
👍

The Newbery, is a literary award given by the Association for Library Service to Children, to the author of "the most distinguished contributions to American literature for children”.


TEACHER FAVORITE AWARD - SELECTION
👍

CENTER FOR THE STUDY OF MULTICULTURAL CHILDREN’S LITERATURE BEST BOOKS - SELECTION
☮️

a committee of the Center for the Study of Multicultural Children’s Literature (CSMCL) identifies the best in multicultural books.

KIRKUS PRIZE FOR YOUNG READERS’ LITERATURE - WINNER👍


THEMES - OVERCOMING ADVERSITY, FIGHTING FOR YOUR RIGHTS

This amazing tale focuses on three children who are challenged by the forces of hate during the late1930’s and early 40’s. Friedrich tries to rescue his father from a German concentration camp; Mike tries to protect his younger brother from going to an institution for homeless children; and Ivy, who has to deal with Mexican and Japanese bigotry. All three children are gifted musicians, and it is this thread that brings them together as the story reaches an absolutely beautiful and heart-warming conclusion. The awards listed above are rightly earned.

GENRE - CHILDREN'S HISTORICAL FICTION - AMERICAN HISTORY WW11

FOR DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS

Which child had the most difficult experience?                                                                                               

NEWBERY MEDAL - WINNER☮️

NEW KID

AUTHOR - JERRY CRAFT

GRADES - 4 - 7

HONORS/AWARDS☮️☮️☮️☮️☮️👍👍👍👍

CORETTA SCOTT KING AWARD - WINNER👍🏿☮️

The Award is given to an African American author and illustrator for outstanding inspirational and educational contributions. The Coretta Scott King Book Award titles promote understanding and appreciation of the culture of all peoples and their contribution to the realization of the American dream of a pluralistic society.The Award is further designed to commemorate the life and works of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and to honor Mrs. Coretta Scott King for her courage and determination to continue the work for peace and world brotherhood.

NEWBERY MEDAL - WINNER👍🏿

The Newbery, is a literary award given by the Association for Library Service to Children, to the author of "the most distinguished contributions to American literature for children”.

EL DIA DE LOS NINOS/EL DIA DE LOS LIBROS - SELECTION☮️

Highlighting diverse children’s books to honor the culture and languages of all children

GREAT GRAPHIC NOVEL FOR TEENS - COMMENDED

A list of recommended graphic novels and illustrated nonfiction for those ages 12-18 prepared yearly by YALSA (Young Adult Library Services Association)

EMPATHY LAB SELECTION☮️

Imagine every single child knowing what empathy is, and isn’t, and why it matters. Being skilled at putting themselves in others’ shoes, able to articulate and share their feelings. Being wonderful listeners, inspired to put empathy into action. Imagine the world being run by such a generation, with empathy a priority in their decision making and leadership! We dream of that world. 

NOTABLE BOOKS FOR A GLOBAL SOCIETY - SELECTION☮️

This is an annual list of 25 books created by the International Literacy Association which enhance student understanding of people and cultures.


CHILDREN’S FAVORITE AWARD - SELECTION
👍🏿

Recognizing books evaluated and voted on by children as books they really enjoy reading.

CENTER FOR THE STUDY OF MULTICULTURAL CHILDREN’S LITERATURE BEST BOOKS ☮️

a committee of the Center for the Study of Multicultural Children’s Literature (CSMCL) identifies the best in multicultural books.

KIRKUS PRIZE FOR YOUNG READERS’ LITERATURE - WINNER👍🏿

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL - SELECTION


THEMES - ADJUSTING TO RACIAL STEREOTYPES AND CULTURE SHOCK

What happens when Jordan, an Afro-American  seventh grader leaves his Washington Heights neighborhood to attend an prestigious private school in Riverdale? He receives a bad case of culture shock as he is one of the few kids of color in the school. Very often his teachers and classmates make stereotypical comments and gestures that are racially motivated. However, this is not always the case. Learning how to deal with race relations and interpreting the behaviors of classmates and staff becomes quite a challenge for Jordon and his few friends. He also has to decide if he should be himself or adapt to the social norms of the school. This story is based on the author’s own experiences.

.

GENRE - SEMI-AUTOBIOGRAPHICAL GRAPHIC NOVEL

FOR DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS

Do you think Jordan should enroll in the art school or continue going to Riverdale Academy?                                                                                                

NOTABLE BOOKS FOR A GLOBAL SOCIETY - SELECTION

OLDEST STUDENT, THE - HOW MARY WALKER LEARNED TO READ

AUTHOR - RITA LORRAINE HUBBARD

GRADES - 2 AND UP

HONORS/AWARDS☮️☮️☮️👍👍👍👍

NOTABLE BOOKS FOR A GLOBAL SOCIETY - SELECTION☮️

This is an annual list of 25 books created by the International Literacy Association which enhance student understanding of people and cultures.
CENTER FOR THE STUDY OF MULTICULTURAL CHILDREN’S LITERATURE BEST BOOKS  - SELECTION☮️

a committee of the Center for the Study of Multicultural Children’s Literature (CSMCL) identifies the best in multicultural books.


EL DIA DE LOS NINOS/EL DIA DE LOS LIBROS SELECTION


Highlighting diverse children’s books to honor the culture and languages of all children.
☮️

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL - BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR
👍

COOPERATIVE CHILDREN’S BOOK CENTER (CCBC) - SELECTION
👍

A best of the year list of Pre-K-12 books created annually by librarians.
NOTABLE CHILDREN’S BOOKS IN THE LANGUAGE ARTS AWARD - SELECTION👍


NOTABLE SOCIAL STUDIES TRADE BOOK FOR YOUNG PEOPLE - SELECTION👍

THEMES - BLACK STRUGGLES, IT IS NEVER TOO LATE TO LEARN

After the Civil War, most African Americans were illiterate. This is the story of one of them - Mary Walker. While working at menial jobs, and raising a family, she never had time to learn to read. She achieved this goal when she turned 116.

GENRE - CHILDREN'S PICTURE BOOK, BIOGRAPHY

FOR DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS

Why do you think Mary learned to read?

Why did she wait so long to do it?                                                     

NEWBERY AWARD - HONOR

OTHER WORDS FOR HOME

AUTHOR -JASMINE WARGA

GRADES - 4-7

HONORS/AWARDS☮️☮️☮️☮️☮️☮️👍🏿👍🏿

NOTABLE BOOKS FOR A GLOBAL SOCIETY - SELECTION AWARD☮️

This is an annual list of 25 books created by the International Literacy Association which enhance student understanding of people and cultures.


WALTER DEAN MYERS AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING CHILDREN’S LITERATURE - HONOR
☮️

The Walter Dean Myers Awards for Outstanding Children's Literature recognize diverse authors whose works feature diverse main characters and address diversity in a meaningful way.


EL DIA DE LOS NINOS/EL DIA DE LOS LIBROS SELECTION - SELECTION
☮️Highlighting diverse children’s books to honor the culture and languages of all children


ARAB AMERICAN BOOK AWARD - HONOR
☮️

is an annual literary award to celebrate and support the research of, and the written work of, Arab Americans and their culture. The Arab American Book Award encourages the publication and excellence of books that preserve and advance the understanding, knowledge, and resources of the Arab American community by celebrating the thoughts and lives of Arab Americans. The purpose of the Award is to inspire authors, educate readers and foster a respect and understanding of the Arab American culture.☮️


NEWBERY AWARD - HONOR
👍🏿

The Newbery, is a literary award given by the Association for Library Service to Children, to the author of "the most distinguished contributions to American literature for children”.


CENTER FOR THE STUDY OF MULTICULTURAL CHILDREN’S LITERATURE BEST BOOKS - SELECTION
☮️

a committee of the Center for the Study of Multicultural Children’s Literature (CSMCL) identifies the best in multicultural books.


SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL - SELECTION
👍🏿

The School Library Journal is an American monthly magazine with articles and reviews for school librarians, media specialists, and public librarians who work with young people.

THEMES - FREEDOM, ACCEPTANCE, ISLAMOPHOBIA

Jude is a twelve-year-old who moves to the United States with her pregnant mom to escape war-torn Syria. While living with her aunt and uncle, Jude becomes a victim of Islamophobia as she tries to adapt to a new culture. She continually struggles to find her identity as emotional turmoil is part of her everyday life. OTHER WORDS FOR HOME provides a a sense of understanding and compassion for Arab Americans who are just trying to fit into a society that is very different from what they have been accustomed to. This award winning story should be on every elementary and middle school bookshelf.

GENRE - MUSLIM LIFE, POETRY

FOR DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS

Why do you think Sarah finally apologized to Jude?

Answers will vary. Perhaps what happened to Layla and her family caused Sarah to change her ways.

                                                   

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