Since 1922, the Newbery Medal has been awarded every year to the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children. The award nominees and winner are chosen by a committee of children’s librarians from public and school libraries.
I’m not on the committee who choses books, but as a children’s librarian, I get some special perks. As part of my job, I read book reviews and recommendations from industry professionals as I contribute to selecting what materials the library purchases. I pay attention to books that come highly recommended or that get a lot of buzz from patrons or other librarians. I also have favorite authors I follow because I think their work is consistently amazing and important.
When these books arrive at the library (or appear on Libby) I get busy reading (or listening!) Listening to audiobooks is actually how I do most of my reading. I love walking or hiking while listening to audiobooks, and chores are so much more palatable when listening to a good book.
As I read, I think it’s fun to think about which books I would chose to nominate for the Newbery Award if I were part of the committee. The stack of 5 books I chose are my predictions for titles that will make the Newbery nominee list this year. I’m excited to find out if one of the books on my list will be chosen as the 2024 winner!
Simon Sort of Says by Erin Bow (a book about messages from aliens and coping with trauma)
The Labors of Hercules Beal by Gary D. Schmidt (a book by one of my favorite authors about a boy has to figure out how to undertake the twelve labors of Hercules in his own life)
The Many Assassinations of Samir, the Seller of Dreams by Daniel Nayeri (a book that transports you to ancient trade routes between the East and the West and follows a young boy’s search for love and belonging)
A First Time for Everything by Dan Santat (a coming of age graphic novel memoir about a school trip to Europe)
The Mona Lisa Vanishes: A Legendary Painter, a Shocking Heist, and the Birth of a Global Celebrity by Nicholas Day (a fascinating nonfiction book that explores how the painting, The Mona Lisa, was catapulted from relative obscurity to infamy when it was stolen from the Louvre in 1911)
If you’re looking for a way to add some excitement as you read in 2024, consider starting your own list of predictions for award winners in your favorite genre of reading. Do you like picture books (or read a lot of them with your family)? Keep a list of predictions for Caldecott Award nominees. Are you a fan of science fiction and fantasy? Make predictions for Hugo or Nebula Award nominees. Are you into mysteries? What titles would you nominate for the Edgar or Agatha awards? Librarians are happy to help you find recommended books in your preferred genre and there are numerous online resources as well. (Goodreads allows readers to vote for their predictions for award winning titles on “Mock ____ Award” lists). Have fun and happy reading in 2024!
