Just like yesterday’s post, this list gives me an excuse to highlight more of 2019’s rich offerings, this time in the writing category.
Published by Bloomsbury Children’s Books
I really enjoyed this book when it was released in early January, but then it kind of slipped off my radar screen. I’ve seen it on a few Newbery prediction lists, though, and that or a Coretta Scott King award (or Sibert, for that matter) would be well-deserved.
Infinite Hope: A Black Artist’s Journey from World War II to Peace by Ashley Bryan
Published by Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books
Although I think the appeal of this book for kids may be limited, it’s a real work of art, and I’d love to see 96-year-old Bryan recognized with a Coretta Scott King award (or, again, Newbery or Sibert).
Each Tiny Spark by Pablo Cartaya
Published by Kokila
A book about a girl connecting with her father over welding didn’t really spark my interest (ha, ha), but I’m glad I overcame my initial resistance and read it before the end of the year. I loved all the characters in this book, and hope it’s recognized by the Pura Belpré folks.
A Good Kind of Trouble by Lisa Moore Ramée
Published by Balzer + Bray
Shayla generally avoids trouble at all costs, but incidents in her community turn her into an activist. What could be more timely at the start of 2020? Debut author Ramée should be considered for a Coretta Scott King award.
Genesis Begins Again by Alicia D. Williams
Published by Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books
Another debut author and another one I had to kind of force myself to start (I’m not a huge fan of the cover, although I appreciated it more after reading the book), but this ended up being one of my favorites of 2019. Coretta Scott King or Newbery, I hope.
