From: Emily Jones <Emilyj>
Date: Wed, 01 Feb 2006 12:18:28 -0600

How great that ALA is recognizing beginning readers in their own right. I often enjoy reading these books because they are genuinely funny! I'm thinking of my own experiences with Amelia Bedelia, Big Max, Mouse Soup, and others from my childhood. I'm glad to see that the humorous element is still important nowadays. I think it helps grab the attention of readers, and it also works because the moment you "get" a joke, you really feel as though you've accomplished something. For a new reader, what a wonderful feeling!

Interesting that the award is given for text and illustration in combination. It must be challenging for the committee to consider both elements * but because both are so crucial to the book and the readers, I'm glad it's done that way. I would be interested in hearing from committee members about this point.

Emily Jones Madison, WI
Received on Wed 01 Feb 2006 12:18:28 PM CST