The Newbery Medal will be announced in just a few days, so it's time that I stopped flip-flopping and make my final predictions. This has been a banner year for children's literature which makes predicting the winner a bit of a challenge. All of my predictions are books that my students have enjoyed. I feel that the book that wins the Newbery Medal should meet the criteria set by ALSC while also appealing to children.
Newbery Medal
Keeper by Kathi Appelt
I found this story truly unique. I loved the setting, the story within the story, the magical/mystical feeling throughout, and the lyrical & poetic nature of the writing. It's not a book you can read quickly. It's a story to enjoy slowly, savor each word. At times, I read chapters aloud to my 3rd grade son. He was immediately pulled into the story. His eyes bulged at the mention of Keeper's mermaid mother. Students at school are crazy about the book too. I can't keep it on the shelf!
Honor Books
Countdown by Deborah Wiles
A Million Shades of Gray by Cynthia Kadohata
One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia
Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper
Wild Cards (These are books that I thought met the criteria and were "distinguished." I would love to see any of these titles with an "Honor.")
The Fantastic Secret of Owen Jester by Barbara O'Connor
Mirror, Mirror: A Book of Reversible Verse by Marilyn Singer
Penny Dreadful by Laurel Snyder
Star in the Forest by Laura Resau
Turtle in Paradise by Jennifer L. Holm
