From: steven engelfried <stevene>
Date: Thu, 18 Jan 2001 08:29:46 -0800

As others have noted, it's hard not to compare "A Year Down Yonder" to "A Long Way from Chicago," which was slightly stronger. I especially felt that Joey was a more compelling character and narrator than Mary Alice (though I was pleasantly surprised at the Valentine's Day episode where Mary Alice instigated the trick, instead of Grandma). On the other hand, I didn't see anything out in 2000 that compared to "Holes," which beat "Chicago" for the 1998 Newbery. This seemed like one of those years with a lot of good books but maybe no perfect ones...some years are just like that (and they must be the hardest ones to pick a Newbery winner). I still think "Joey Pigza" would have been an even better Medal choice. It shares the same general strengths as Peck's book: Many funny moments, warm (but unusual) family relationships, and an unforgettable character. (I guess you could say the same about "The Wanderer" and "Winn Dixie" too, but you could also say it about "Holes," "View from Saturday," "Bud Not Buddy," and dozens of other wonderful books.) Of this year's group, I thought Gantos' book was the funniest, most touching, and much as I love Grandma Dowdel, Joey P is an even more unique and memorable character. Either way, as a librarian who often has to recommend Newbery winners and honor books to sometimes reluctant readers, I'm very pleased to see all these very readable, yet powerful titles honored.

- Steven Engelfried, Young Adult Librarian
  Deschutes Public Library System
  545 NW Wall Street Bend, OR 97701
  ph: 541a7p72 fax: 54189)82
  e-mail: stevene at dpls.lib.or.us
Received on Thu 18 Jan 2001 10:29:46 AM CST