Favs of 2013

SO many great books released in 2013.  Here are my favorites of the year:



Picture Books


The Day the Crayons Quit
by Drew Daywalt, illustrated by Oliver Jeffers
Hilarious collection of letters from the crayons who have had enough!  Overworked, ignored, or misunderstood, they quit!  This clever story is perfectly drawn with Jeffers' charming artwork and lettering.  Innovative and witty, The Day the Crayons Quit is a must for every picture book shelf.   



Exclamation Mark
by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, illustrated by Ted Lichtenheld
Exclamation Mark is different and is trying to find his place in the world.  Funny and perfectly PUN-ny, this little book has a simple but important message for readers of all ages. Particularly for those who appreciate humor, word play, and a brilliant blend of text and illustration.   

Mr. Tiger Goes Wild
written & illustrated by Peter Brown
Mr. Tiger doesn't really like his prim, proper world and goes a little ... wild.  He learns some things in the wilderness as do his prim friends while he is away.  Another riotous romp from Peter Brown, complete with his detailed, whimsical, perfectly hand-crafted illustrations. His use of line and color (ORANGE!) are pure genius. 

Paul Meets Bernadette
written & illustrated by Rosy Lamb 
Paul swims around and around in circles in his fish bowl ... until Bernadette arrives. Bernadette sees things differently and shows Paul a whole new way to view the world.  The artwork, created with broad strokes reminiscent of Monet or Matisse, adds to the charm and beauty of this gentle book celebrating the impact one individual can make on the world ... even one as small as a fish bowl. 

Flora and the Flamingo 
written & illustrated by Molly Idle
This wordless interactive book is a pure delight.  Plump little Flora, in a pink swimsuit and bathing cap, imitates the moves of her friend the flamingo.  Although not quite as graceful, her efforts result in pure fun.  Young readers will want to flip the pages again and again ... and likely mimic the dance!  Created by a former DreamWorks animator, this duo begs to star in an animated short, whether it's on the screen or in the reader's mind.   


Middle Grade

Flora and Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures 
by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by K.G. Campbell 
Another Flora! ... and equally as endearing.  Flora Belle Buckman, a self-described cynic, steps in to help a squirrel in a tangle with a vacuum cleaner.  The squirrel (AKA Ulysses) survives and emerges a superhero with special powers and a penchant for poetry.  DiCamillo has woven another quietly brilliant tale with her exquisite word choice, endearing characters, and trademark charm.

Counting by 7s
by Holly Goldberg Sloan 
Willow Chance is a 12-year-old genius.  She has an amazing knowledge of nature and medical conditions, but knows very little about getting along with others.  When tragedy hits, Willow must learn to exist in a new reality and makes an unexpected impact on those around her.  The writing is impeccable, and Willow a true gem.  This tragic, but ultimately hopeful tale is one-in-a-million.  


P.S. Be Eleven 
by Rita Williams-Garcia 
Delphine and her sisters are back!  Returning home from time spent with her estranged mother, Delphine must reconcile what she has experienced and her newly found independence with her grandmother's old ways, the changes happening in her family (her father is dating!), and the trials of 6th grade. Rita Williams-Garcia has created an excellent sequel to an excellent book.   I can't wait for #3! 

Star Wars: Jedi Academy 
by Jeffrey Brown 
This little book completely surprised and delighted me!  Roan dreamed of entering the Pilot Academy, like his father and older brother before him.  He doesn't get in, but instead is invited to the mysterious Jedi Academy.  Told through journal entries, clippings, report cards, doodles, and letters, Star Wars: Jedi Academy tells the ups and downs of Roan's first year at the Academy.  The book is clever and entertaining, but also surprisingly perceptive as it addresses topics such as bullying, making friends, not giving up, and handling new situations. It has huge reader appeal and makes you want to pull out your old collection of Star Wars action figures (yes, I've got 'em.. even the Land Rover!) and maybe even start your own journal.  Read it you must, love it you will. ;





Young Adult

One Came Home  
by Amy Timberlake 
It's 1871 in Wisconsin, and Georgie's sister has disappeared.  The town assumes the worst, but Georgie, armed with only her sharpshooting skills and pure determination, sets out insistent on finding her.  Part adventure, part mystery and wholly original, One Came Home is a True Grit for tweens & teens (and 40-somethings!), immediately transporting readers to a different time and into the heart of a plucky unforgettable heroine.  Funny, smart, and insightful. 


The Fire Horse Girl 
by Kay Honeyman 
Jade Moon is born under the worst sign of the Zodiac for Chinese girls ensuring that she is willful and stubborn, traits not desirable in young girls.  While her grandfather worries about marrying her off, she dreams of a different future.  Her chance comes when a distant adopted cousin arrives with an opportunity to go to America.  But, admittance to this new country is not easy for the Chinese in 1923 and detainment at Angel Island is almost unbearable.  Jade Moon's strength and will turn out to be just what she needs to survive. This well-researched novel gives readers an authentic view into Chinese immigration as well as a strong, feisty teen to root for as she navigates her new world.  

Going Vintage 
by Lindsey Leavitt 
I am a sucker for romance, quirky, loveable characters, and books that make me laugh... Lindsey Leavitt creates all three superbly!  When Mallory's boyfriend "cheats" on her with an online girlfriend, she swears off all technology.  Armed with a to-do list her grandmother made as a teen in 1962, Mallory decides to "go vintage," to return to a simpler time, and to try to accomplish her grandmother's goals.  The challenge proves to be a little more than she expected (How does she run for pep club secretary when her school doesn't even have a pep club??).  Through it all, Mallory makes many new discoveries about herself, her family, and those around her.  Reviewers have claimed Linsdsey Leavitt's books have "humor and heart." I wholeheartedly agree and can't wait for the next one!   



Winger

by Andrew Smith
Ryan Dean West is the youngest in his junior class at an elite boarding school on the West Coast. He is a frequent target for bullies, but his wits, determination, and prowess on the rugby field help him rise above.  This year he is set on making Annie, his best friend and love of his life, see him as more than a friend and a younger boy.  But the year brings more than anyone anticipated.  This honest look into the mind and heart of an insecure, hormonally-charged 14-year-old boy is a true achievement. It's wickedly funny, intelligent, surprising, and absolutely heartbreaking.  



And my two very favorites of the year ...  

All the Truth that's In Me
by Julie Berry 
Four years ago, Judith and her best friend disappeared.  Her friend's body was found in the river; Judith returns to town two years later, mutilated and unable to speak.  Viewed as cursed and ignored by the town and her family, Judith silently pours her heart out to Lucas, the boy she has loved since childhood.  With echoes of The Scarlet Letter and Speak, All the Truth That's in Me is an exquisite, completely captivating novel.  Readers are immediately pulled into Judith's silent world and compelled by the mystery surrounding her disappearance.  This quiet but determined girl grabs hold of your heart as she searches for answers, for hope, and for her lost voice.  References to Joan of Arc, emphasizing sacrifices for love, and the use of the Psalms as a mode of healing are brilliant.  This rich, beautifully executed story stays with the reader long after the final page is turned.



Fangirl 
by Rainbow Rowell 
Cath and twin sister Wren have been inseparable for years.  They share a love for the fantasy series Simon Snow and the world of fanfiction surrounding the beloved stories.  But, as they prepare to go away to college, Wren seems to be pulling away from Simon and from Cath.  Wren has always been the more confident, extroverted sister and trying to navigate college without her is a big challenge for reserved, socially-awkward Cath.  But, the year is full of surprises, new friendships, trials and triumphs, and unexpected love. Is it possible for Cath to leave the boy wizard's magical world behind and fully embrace her own reality?  This novel is simply outstanding.  The characters are real, complicated, and funny; the dialogue quick and unforgettable (I have read the conversations over and over, treasuring the humor, originality, and emotion). This is a story that wedges into your heart and never leaves. It is pure magic.  

NOTE:  I LOVED Rowell's Eleanor & Park, also released this year; but I decided to select just one to spotlight in this list and Fangirl won out. The deciding factor? Levi ;) I am head-over-heels for this guy! 

These were the standouts for me from a year of many excellent reads. What were your 2013 favs?   

NCTE & ALAN

In November, I had the chance to attend my first NCTE (National Council of Teachers of English) Annual Convention. The conference was in Boston - one of my very favorite cities ... added bonus!

Four colleagues and I presented a session on igniting middle school readers and building a reading community.   

Our t-shirts advertising the session were a hit! 

We presented Friday afternoon, the first day of the conference.  We had a lovely crowd, and the presentation went very smoothly ... quite a relief after planning and preparing for so many months!  After presenting, we were able to relax and just enjoy the conference and the sharing of ideas. 


Highlights of included: 

• a fabulous dinner with Little, Brown.  I was able to sit next to the amazing Matthew Quick., author of The Silver Linings Playbook, and my favorite, Sorta Like a Rock Star.   What a treat to hear about his upcoming releases and many movie deals!  
• an excellent session featuring some literary rock stars  ... master teachers Colby Sharp and Donalyn Miller, literature guru Teri Lesesne, literacy experts Kylene Beers and Bob Probst, and hilarious author and reading promoter Jon Scieszka.  The standing-room-only session was entertaining, informative, and inspiring.
  

  

  Jon Scieszka ... such a hoot!

• a delightful Scholastic brunch with Reader's Theater readings from fabulous authors including Rodman Philbrick, Elizabeth Eulberg, and Barbara Kerley.  The room fell in love with Natalie Lloyd, debut author of A Snicker of Magic. 
• Delicious East Coast food!  One of my favorites was the lobster roll at Island Creek Oyster Bar (Best Lobster Roll 2013... definitely earned my vote!) And, a stop at Flour Bakery, breakfast at The Paramount, and a dinner in the North End are Boston musts!

Blueberry Pancakes at The Paramount

• Visiting the amazing Boston Public Library.  I may move to this city just so I can go here on a regular basis.  It was almost a religious experience.  ;)  

• Sitting with incredible Jerry Spinelli at a Random House dinner.  He is such a talented man and a truly amazing person.  It was an honor to get to talk with him.

•  Meeting Lindsey Leavitt.  She is one of my favorite "chick lit" authors.  Her books are heartfelt and hilarious.  I really want her for my BFF.  ;)

 

• Meeting SCOUT! ... aka Mary Badham, the darling lady who played Scout in To Kill a Mockingbird!  

 

 

After the conference, we were able to stay for the ALAN (Assembly on Literature for Adolescents) Workshop. The event kicks off with a cocktail party for all attendees and featured authors.  

The lovely Sarah Dessen

The hilarious Jon Scieszka

The next morning you show up, and they hand you a HUGE box of books!  Opening it feels like Christmas morning!  Then you get to listen to author panels all day and get books signed by favorite authors.  Pure heaven for lovers of young adult lit!

It was a terrific weekend celebrating books, authors, and literacy in an amazing city.  I am thankful for the chance to attend, and can't for next year!   

August 10 for 10!

It's a PICTURE BOOK PARTY!

Today is the third annual Picture Book 10 for 10 event (#pb10for10).  Picture book aficionados all over have spent time pondering their favorite picture books and building top ten lists of their final selections.  The event is hosted yearly by creators Cathy at Reflect & Refine and Mandy at Enjoy & Embrace Learning. I am participating this year for the first time.  As a lover of picture books AND lists, I couldn't wait to get involved! 

I created a list of 10 Irresistible Picture Book Characters (or Duos!).  I included both classic and contemporary characters, favorites from my childhood as well as new friends.  Of course, there are many more unique, unforgettable characters that I could have included, but here are ten of my very favorites.  

1.  Frances

Frances is the star of several books by Russell Hoban, including Bread and Jam for Frances, A Birthday for Frances, and Bedtime for Breakfast.  This feisty little badger experiences the typical feelings and struggles of a growing kid such as dealing with a new sibling and not wanting to go to bed.  She is funny, honest and completely loveable.  One minute she is down and out, and the next she is singing funny little ditties while jumping rope!  I adored her as a child and still adore her today.     

 

2.  Frog & Toad

Best friends Frog and Toad were created by Arnold Lobel in the 1970s and are featured in four easy-to-read beginning chapter books. These funny friends are the perfect duo for beginning readers to meet.  Although simple, their stories are amusing and relatable, as much so now as when they were first published.  Perpetually positive Frog and the slightly irritable Toad provide comical adventures and banter that continue to delight readers of all ages.

 

 

3. George & Martha  

These two friends are a riot.  I still remember reading their stories over and over as a child and laughing out loud at their hijinks, such as George pouring pea soup into his shoes.  James Marshall was a brilliant author and illustrator.  His lumpy, loveable illustrations (in these and all his books) are hilarious and unforgettable.        
 

 

 

 

 4.  Lilly 

This little mouse is a force to be reckoned with!  She rules several of Kevin Henke's books; my favorite, of which, is Julius, The Baby of the World.  She is so excited about her sibling on the way until he arrives.  Lilly's take on everything is priceless as are the expressions on her parents' faces. ;)

5.  Elephant & Piggie

Author/illustrator Mo Willems is a genius.  He speaks "kid" better than anyone while also entertaining the adults who are sharing the stories with young readers. All of the books starring friends Elephant & Piggie are a hoot.  I was delighted this week to overhear a friend sharing Let's Go for a Ride with her toddler who came from China just a few months ago.  Little Lilly was completely engaged, giggling and singing along, "Drivety Drive, Drivety Drive!" as her mom read this favorite book.  What a joy to see how these two hilarious characters delighted this little reader assimilating to a new culture just as much as they did this forty-something adult!       

6.  Scaredy Squirrel 

Oh, how I love this little critter.  Scaredy Squirrel (and his worries!) are the center of several books by Melanie Watt.  Squirrel's fears are both charming and comforting to other worriers and "germaphobes."  Watt's simple page designs and endearing illustrations of Scaredy Squirrel and the dangers in his world (such as killer bees and spiders) are truly delightful. 

7. Lucy

"Lucille Beatrice Bear" is the loveable main character of Peter Brown's Children Make Terrible Pets and You Will be My Friend!  I adore her passion and enthusiasm.  Anyone who ever wanted a pet or a new friend can't help but relate to Lucy.  And, ever the optimist, Lucy reminds us that there is always another opportunity right around the corner.   

 

8. Officer Buckle & Gloria 

Officer Buckle and Gloria by Peggy Rathmann is one of my favorite Caldecott winning books. I love how the reader must take in the text AND the illustrations to get the full story; and I also love the way kids respond to this story.  Officer Buckle and Gloria are the perfect pair; they are true friends that bring out the best in each other.  When challenges come their way, the stick together and come out stronger in the end.

 

 

 

9. Ferdinand 

My heart truly sings when I see this book.  It was such a childhood favorite (and it was a classic even then!).  The story was written by Munro Leaf, illustrated by Robert Lawson, and published in 1936.  As a kid, I loved that Ferdinand just wanted to sit and smell the flowers. As an adult, I love that he reminds us to follow our heart and to not be afraid of taking a different path, even when we take that path alone.   

 

  

10. Leo

And, finally, my last irresistible character is Leo the Late Bloomer created by author Robert Kraus and illustrator Jose Aruego.  Leo doesn't read, write, or speak like the other growing lions.  Leo's father is concerned, but his mother knows he'll bloom in his own time... which is exactly what he does. As a bit of a late bloomer myself, I have always loved Leo and am encouraged by his slightly slower path.  What a great reminder to accept everyone right where they are!  

 

It was a fun challenge trying to whittle down to my 10 favorites.  Who would YOU list as the most irresistible picture book characters??   

 

ALA 2013!

Last week I traveled to Chicago for the American Library Association Annual Conference.  Here are a few highlights from the fun weekend:

1.  Caldecott Pre-conference

In celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Caldecott Medal, ALSC offered a special pre-conference at the Art Institute of Chicago.  It was magnificent!  It started with a keynote given by illustrator/author Brian Selznick.  He spoke about Randolph Caldecott, told the history of the medal, and payed tribute to the late great Maurice Sendak, his mentor and friend.  It was hilarious, touching, and unforgettable.  

The rest of the day included panels featuring Caldecott winning illustrators, discussions about the winning books through the ages, and break-out sessions focusing on different aspects of the award, the honored books, media, and style.  

As a lover of both art and the written word, I appreciate the way the two come together beautifully in picture books, creating illustrated stories that delight readers of all ages.  I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this this day-long celebration of the Caldecott Medal and the wonder of picture books!

Caldecott Medal 75th Anniversary Logo created by Brian Selznick.  I love the clever way he incorporated several of the iconic characters from the winning books.  

Chris Raschka and his editor Lee Wade discussing the evolution of A Ball for Daisy. 

 
2.  Publisher Events

I was able to attend several fabulous publisher events throughout the weekend showcasing authors and previewing new books.  Thank you to Penguin, Little Brown, Random House, Macmillan, Simon & Schuster, and Disney Hyperion for including me in this fun events! 
 

With Sarah Dessen at the Penguin YA Rock Star dinner.   Laurie Halse Anderson, Marie Lu and DJ MacHale were the other rock stars in attendance!  Yowza!  

Little Brown dance party with cool Holly Black

No taxis could be found so several of us, including authors Holly Black & Paolo Bacigalupi, friend Dr. Marianne Follis, and hilarious literary agent Barry Goldblatt (AKA Libba Bray's husband!), took a limo back to our hotels.  What a memorable ride!  :) 

Scholastic Brunch featuring group readings done by authors Gordon Korman, Brandon Mull, Kirby Larson, Kat Falls, Kathryn Erskine, and Jeffrey Brown.  Hilarious!

Received a custom tattoo from Caldecott and Pura Belpre award-winning illustrator David Diaz at an S & S dessert reception 

  
3. The Fashion & Impressionism Exhibit at the Art Institute of Chicago

Friend Mary Pruitt and I took a break from the library events for a quick visit to the AIC. I had not been able to explore the museum during the pre-conference, so was glad for the chance to return for another visit.  The current exhibit showcases the impact of fashion on the Impressionist painters as they worked to portray modern life in their work.  Absolutely fascinating!  One thing I really enjoyed ... the exquisite wording in the descriptions of the art and inspirations. I collected so many delicious phrases!  

The lions outside the institute sporting Blackhawk helmets to celebrate the Stanely Cup victory!  :)

4.  Newbery Caldecott Wilder Banquet

I was so honored to sit with Random House publishers at the NCW Banquet.  This banquet is such a special annual occasion.  As several have said, it's like the Academy Awards for the world of children's literature.  This year's recipients delivered the most hilarious and heartfelt speeches.  It was a true privilege to be there and to be a part of the celebration of literary excellence.  And who was sitting at my table?  Newbery winning legends Cynthia Voigt and Patricia MacLachlan!  What an unforgettable evening! 

ALSC friends Gaye Hinchliff and Mary Ann Scheuer

With good friend Dr. Marianne Follis

The unbelievable Jon Klassen accepting the Caledecott Medal (and he won an honor too!).  I LOVE him. 

An incredible gathering of illustrators.  It's like an uber talented frat party!  

5.  Time with friends!
One of the best things about library conferences is spending time with librarians from all over the US!  I am so thankful for these friendships and the chance to reconnect every year.

With friends Karen Kessel & Mary Pruitt

With roomies Dr. Rose Brock, Heather Aston, and Dr. Mary Pruitt in our matching pjs!  A girl never outgrows the joy of a pajama party!  :)

What a terrific weekend.  And, to top it all off, I came home with oodles of books to keep me busy all summer!  Thank you, ALA, ALSC, publishers, and dear friends for another fabulous conference.  Can't wait for Las Vegas 2014!      

Jillicious Reading: Colin Fischer

Colin Fischer

by Ashley Edward Miller and Zack Stentz

Summary:  Colin Fischer has Asperger's. He can't easily read people's expressions or pick up social clues; this makes trying to navigate the new world of high school extremely challenging.  He is immediately targeted by bullies, class clowns, and cruel cliques.  

One day lunch is interrupted when a gun suddenly goes off in the school cafeteria.  Colin's main tormenter, Wayne Connelly, is blamed and suspended for the crime.  Colin isn't convinced Wayne is guilty, however, and sets out to prove his innocence.  His unique vision of the world may be the very perspective needed to see what really happened. 

Thoughts: I was drawn to this novel because it features an unlikely hero and a mystery. In developing an engaging main character and a realistic mystery, Colin Fischer completely succeeds. The text utilizes three writing devices: Colin's first person journal entries, a third person narrative, and footnotes. All blend together to offer a comprehensive perspective on the events as well as the characters' thoughts and motivations. I particularly enjoyed Colin's entries. These offered an authentic view into the Asperger's mind that allows the reader to more deeply understand the thought patterns. Colin's interactions with his family, his brother's resentment, and the teen's dealings with his peers all ring true. I found this to be an intriguing novel featuring an endearing, atypical sleuth you can't help but root for.  I hope there are many more Colin Fischer mysteries on the way!

I heard authors Ashley Miller and Zack Stentz speak at the Texas library conference this spring. What a fascinating pair of guys! These screenwriters met and bonded years ago over Star Trek and have been collaborating ever since on projects such as X-Men, Thor, and Fringe.  Colin Fischer is their first young adult novel.  I found them very interesting and look forward to seeing what they do next on the screen and in young adult literature!

Ashley E. Miller & Zack Stentz - TLA "Defining Different" Panel, 2013

Read Colin Fischer if you ... 

• are a fan of mysteries and enjoyed series like Encyclopedia Brown in your past
• enjoy novels starring differently-wired main characters
• liked The London Eye Mystery, Anything But Typical, and/or The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
• are interested in the the unique ways people tick.