From: Christine Hill <chill>
Date: Wed, 23 Jan 2002 11:06:56 -0500

Although I agree with Denise that sci fi and fantasy is rarely honored with the Newbery (twice in the last 20 years--The Giver and Hero and the Crown), historical fiction set before the 20th C has won four times in the last 20 years (A Single Shard, The Midwife's Apprentice, The Whipping Boy, Sarah Plain and Tall.) When you add five historical novels set IN the 20th century, (A Year Down Yonder, Bud Not Buddy, Out of the Dust, Number the Stars, Jacob Have I Loved) historical actually dominates the award. True contemporary novels have won only six times in the last 20 years (Walk Two Moons, The View from Saturday, Missing May, Shiloh, Dear Mr. Henshaw and Dicey's Song.) True, some people might add Holes and Maniac Magee, but I'm with those who consider them magical realism/tall tales. Pre 20th C historical fiction was also well represented on the list prior to 1981. Christine M. Hill Willingboro Public Library One Salem Road Willingboro NJ 08046 chill at willingboro.org Coming in February! Ten Hispanic American Authors, Enslow, 2002
Received on Wed 23 Jan 2002 10:06:56 AM CST