From: Barbara Kerley <barbara>
Date: Sun, 20 Jan 2008 19:40:49 -0800

>Steven Engelfried wrote:

>Another reason that many excellent non-fiction books might not be Newbery picks relates to the criteria for the award, which focuses "primarily on the text." Many of the best non-fiction titles utilize illustrations in inventive ways, but this can make it harder for the text to shine.

>The Sibert criteria appropriately includes "visual presentation" as well as "language" (and other qualities) which allows ALSC to acknowledge the amazing variety of ways books can provide information.

>I think the two awards work very well together

Yes, good point! Have I noticed correctly that the Sibert has shifted away from awarding to the author, to awarding basically to the book?

It's very nice that there is an award specifically for informational books, for the very reason you mention.

I must admit I'm always pleased when something other than a middle-grade novel makes it SOMEWHERE into the Newbery list, however; it's great when fine writing -- and excellence in meeting the particular demands of a specific genre -- are recognized. So I say hooray for Good Masters, Sweet Ladies and for Joyful Noise, for The Great Fire, for Frog and Toad!

Barb Kelly
Received on Sun 20 Jan 2008 09:40:49 PM CST