Textbook Reflections 6-10

Chapter 6:  How Do Adolescents Develop?

• In order to match readers to books successfully a librarian must know their reader.  As a school librarian it is important to understand the physical and intellectual development of the students you serve.
• Physical Development:  Puberty is never an easy time.  There are lots of books that talk about this.  Librarians should look for a variety of books to appeal to various puberty dilemas.  This will help reassure students that they will get through it.  
• Intellectual Development:  Think about the questions you as a librarian ask children about books, use scaffolding to find out where they are in terms of their intellectual development.  Are they more concrete or abstract thinkers.  
• Development Stages for Young Adults (Havinghurst):  Keep these stages in mind when choosing books for young adults.  They are constantly developing and changing and  autobiographical books or books they can see themselves in will help reassure them that change is normal and okay.

• Kohlberg's Theory on Morality:  Most YA's make preconventional decisions.  These are decisions based on reward and punishment.  As they grow older they begin to make conventional decisions where they follow the rules and then ultimately post-conventional decisions in which they put others above themselves so that there humanity supersedes the law.

• Maslow:  Needs Hierarchy:  From the bottom to the top of the pyramid is physiological needs, safety, love/belonging, esteem and at the very top self-actualization.  The bottom ones physiological needs and safety must be met.  They over ride every other need.  If they are not met then the others are unattainable.  As an educator, we have to think about how to get those needs met.  One way is to find books to help meet these needs and influence the reader.  
• Developing as Readers:  Birthday Cake Series- includes the following principles:  develops empathy, unconscious delight, reading autobiographical, reading for vicarious experience, reading for philosophical explanation, reading for aesthetic experiences.  

As a librarian, when developing book collections you must keep in mind that students at this age begin to think and reason for themselves.  They become more abstract thinkers.  It would be helpful to choose books that influence and shape their thoughts and actions.  Librarians must know about the culture of the community and the challenges students face as the develop and choose books to steer their thinking towards being productive members of society.  

Chapter 7: Literary Elements

Here is a list of literary elements and devices that are critical to evaluating Young Adult literature:

Antagonist- a character or a group of characters which stand in against the protagonist.  This word comes from the Greek word antagonistes which means opponent, competitor, villian or rival.  

Protagonist- central character or leading figure, a hero.  Sometimes a protagonist has a moral weakness that causes his fall.  This character can also be very controversial because of some evil traits.

Character- a person or other being in a narrative.  Characterization is a literary device that is used in literature to highlight and explain the details about a character in a story.

Conflict- involves a struggle between two opposing forces, usually a protagonist and an antagonist.  There are two types of conflict, internal and external.  Internal conflict has two opposite emotions or desires usually good versus evil that goes on inside a character.  External conflict occurs between the protagonist and antagonist.  It is essential for a writer to introduce and develop conflict.  This makes the story interesting and exciting.  If done well, the reader is entertained by the resolution of the conflict.

Mood- evokes certain feelings or vibes in readers through words and descriptions.  It is the atmosphere of a literary piece developed through setting, theme, tone and diction.

Setting- physical location in a piece of literature that shows background information in which the events of the narrative take place.  

Tone- an attitude of a writer toward a subject of an audience generally conveyed through the choice of words or the viewpoint of a writer on a particular subject.  The manner in which a writer approaches this theme and subject is the tone.  Tone can be formal, informal, serious, comical, sarcastic, happy or sad, or a range of other emotions.  The tone decides how the readers read a literary piece, how they feel while reading, creates the mood, gives the characters a voice and personality that the readers are able to understand.

Plot- events that make up a story, the main part or foundation of a story.  The characters and settings are built around the plot.  There are five main elements in a plot:  1.  exposition or introduction (beginning of the story) 2.  rising action (series of events build up the the conflict) 3.  climax (main point of the plot, a turning point of the story, this is a moment of high interest and emotion) 4.  falling action (winding up of the story, events and complications begin to resolve) 5.  resolution (this is the end or conclusion it may be happy or tragic)

Theme- message stated or suggested by the author.  A theme should be proven by pointing back to the text.  It is a truism meaning that it is accepted globally, applies to the world at large.  Themes should be stated as a full complete sentence.  It can be stated directly or indirectly.  There can be lots of themes in one literary work.  There can be a major one, which is an idea that a writer repeats in the story or minor ones.  Minor themes appear briefly in the narrative giving way to another minor theme.    A theme is an opinion expressed on the subject which is a topic that acts as a foundation for a literary work.  Picture books are a good way to teach students about themes.

Archetype- typical character, situation or action that seems to represent universal patterns or symbols of human nature.  Readers are able to identify the characters and situations in their every day lives, realism is seen in the narrative.

Deus ex machina-"god out of the machine", circumstance where an implausible concept or a divine character is introduced into a story line only for the purpose of resolving conflict that could other wise not be resolved.  It makes for an interesting outcome.  

Hyperbole- the Greek word means over-casting.  Hyperbole is a figure of speech that involves an exaggeration of ideas for the sake of emphasis.  This is a comparison that has a humorous effect that is created by an overstatement.  Writers use hyperboles to develop contrasts, one thing is described normal and the other with a hyperbole, this gets the reader's attention and makes them think about why the hyperbole was used.

Metaphor- a figure of speech used to contradict two different subjects based on a single or some common characteristics.  The comparison is implicit or hidden, does not use the words like or as and if done right can sharpen the imagination to comprehend what is being communicated.

Simile- figure of speech which makes comparison showing similarities between two different things using the words like or as.  

Imagery- use figurative language to represent actions, ideas and objects to appeal to the physical senses of the reader.  Words and phrases are used in such a way that they can create visual representations in the mind of the reader.  Imagery relies on similes, metaphors, personification and onomatopoeia.

Motif- object of idea that represents itself throughout a literary work; has a symbolic significance and contributes to the development of a theme.  

Point of view- mode of narration that an author employs to let the readers hear and see what takes place in a narrative.  There are three major kinds:  first person, second person and third person.  

When using literary elements and devices to evaluate young adult literature one can see the value in diversifying a book collection.  Readers have their favorite elements.  Some readers may prefer allegorical stories over symbolic ones.  Books that contain different literary elements allow for teachable moments socially and culturally when thinking about the use of allusions, similes and metaphors.

Chapter 8:  Awards and Lists

Here is a list of the various young adult literary awards and lists that come out annually.  They have various criteria but over all they recommend to librarians and readers some of the best written books of the time.

How to access the awards:  *YALSA has launched the new Teen Book Finder Database, which is a one-stop shop for finding selected lists and award winners.  Users can search this free resource by award, list name, year, author, genre and more, as well as print customizable lists.  This new resource will replace the individual award and list web pages currently on YALSA’s site that are not searchable and that are organized only by year.

Printz:  Criteria

What is quality? We know what it is not. We hope the award will have a wide AUDIENCE among readers from 12 to 18 but POPULARITY is not the criterion for this award. Nor is MESSAGE. In accordance with the Library Bill of Rights, CONTROVERSY is not something to avoid. In fact, we want a book that readers will talk about.

Librarianship focuses on individuals, in all their diversity, and that focus is a fundamental value of the Young Adult Library Services Association and its members. Diversity is, thus, honored in the Association and in the collections and services that libraries provide to young adults.

Having established what the award is not, it is far harder to formulate what it is. As every reader knows, a great book can redefine what we mean by quality. Criteria change with time. Therefore, flexibility and an avoidance of the too-rigid are essential components of these criteria (some examples of too-rigid criteria: A realistic hope - well, what about Robert Cormier's Chocolate War or Brock Coles' The Facts Speak for Themselves? Avoiding complicated plot - what about Louis Sachar's Holes? Originality - what about all the mythic themes that are continually re-worked? We can all think of other great books that don't fit those criteria.)

What we are looking for, in short, is literary excellence.

All forms of writing—fiction, nonfiction, poetry, art, and any combination of these, including anthologies—are eligible.

The following criteria are only suggested guidelines and should in no way be considered as absolutes. They will always be open to change and adaptation. Depending on the book, one or more of these criteria will apply:

• Story
• Voice
• Style
• Setting
• Accuracy
• Characters
• Theme
• Illustrations
• Design (including format, organization, etc.)

For each book the questions and answers will be different, the weight of the various criteria will be different.

The ALA press release announcing the winner should stipulate why the title has been chosen for its literary excellence.

Award is announced in June

YALSA Excellence in Nonfiction:  Criteria

The YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults shall be awarded annually to the best nonfiction title published for young adults during the preceding Nov. 1 – Oct. 31 year. The Award will be given to a title that honors a work for subject, treatment and accessibility to young adults.

• All print forms of nonfiction are eligible for consideration, including graphic formats.
• The title must have been designated by its publisher as intended for young adults who are defined as persons between the ages of twelve and including eighteen.
• The title must include excellent writing, research, presentation and readability for young adults.
• Titles from a series may be considered on their individual merits.
• Titles that are self-published, published only in eBook format, and/or published from a publisher outside of the US will not be considered eligible until the first year the book is available in print or distributed through a US publishing house.
• If no title is deemed sufficiently meritorious, no award will be given that year.
• The chair, with assistance from designated YALSA staff, is responsible for verifying the eligibility of all nominated titles.
• The award will be presented to the author(s) of the winning and honor titles at a ceremony at an ALA or YALSA conference.

The winner is announced annually at the ALA Youth Media Awards, with a shortlist of up to five titles named the first week of December.

Great Graphic Novels for Teens:  Criteria

• Both young adult, and adult titles with strong teen appeal, may be considered
• Both fiction and non-fiction are eligible
• Adapted materials must remain true to, expand, or complement the original work
• Books published within the assigned calendar year, January 1 to December 31, in addition to those published between September 1 and December 31 of the previous year.
• Nominations may be accepted from the field and Blogging Team up to November 1 of that calendar year.
• Though graphic novels need not be published in the United States, they must be widely available for purchase in the U.S. at the time of consideration.
• Reissues will be considered if there has been significant change to the original content of the work since first issued. Whether or not the changes are significant enough is ultimately determined by the Coordinator.
• Collections of comic strips will be considered only if they contain an overarching story arc.

The winners are announced annually after the Midwinter meeting.

Best Fiction for Young Adults:  Criteria

“Best” is defined as: of the highest quality, excellence, or standing. As applied to teen fiction, this means that YALSA's BFYA Blogging Team looks for outstanding titles of fiction that are of interest and value to teenagers.

Suggested selection criteria:

1. Titles are selected for their demonstrated or probable appeal to the personal reading tastes of young adults
2. Appeal and popularity are not synonymous
3. Titles from a series should be considered on their individual merits

In addition to the question of appeal, blogging team members should consider the following

when assessing titles: language, plot, style, setting, dialog, characterization, and design

The winner is announced at the end of each calendar year.

Margaret A Edwards Award:  Criteria

The committee making its selection of nominees must be aware of the entire range of books for young adults and will take into account the following:

• Does the book(s) help adolescents to become aware of themselves and to answer their questions about their role and importance in relationships, society and in the world?
• Is the book(s) of acceptable literary quality?
• Does the book(s) satisfy the curiosity of young adults and yet help them thoughtfully to build a philosophy of life?
• Is the book(s) currently popular with a wide range of young adults in many different parts of the country?
• Do the book(s) serve as a "window to the world" for young adults?

The winner is announced after the Midwinter and Annual  Conference meetings.

ALEX Award:  Criteria

YALSA's Alex Committee looks for outstanding titles that are of interest and value to teenagers. Suggested selection criteria:

1. Titles are selected for their demonstrated or probable appeal to the personal reading tastes of young adults 
2. Appeal and popularity are not synonymous In addition to the question of appeal, committee members should consider the following when assessing titles: language, plot, style, setting, dialog, characterization, and design.

The winner is announced after the Midwinter Meeting.

Odyssey Award:  Criteria

This award recognizes excellence by a producer or director for accomplishment and/or innovation in the production of an audio program. The winning title must exemplify the highest standards of direction, narration, engineering, and technical achievement.

• Popularity is not the criterion for this award nor is the award based on the message or content of the book on which it is based.
• The committee must consider technical and aesthetic aspects, including the effective use of narration as well as music and sound effects when they are incorporated into the production. These elements must come together to create a unified whole.
• The audio must maintain and stimulate listeners’ interest.
• Production Qualities

• 
  
• Narration
• Does the reader (or readers) have good voice quality, diction, and timing? Is the reader (or readers) believable and convincing?
• Does the reader (or readers) distinguish between characters by changing pitch, tone, and inflection? Are accents or dialects used and if so, are they handled authentically and consistently?
• Are all words, including proper nouns, locales, foreign terms, character names, and others pronounced correctly and consistently?
• Does the reader (or readers) avoid condescending vocal mannerisms and style and is the reading believable and convincing?
• Is the performance dynamic and does it reflect the expressive nature of the text?
• Sound Quality
• Is the sound sharp and clear with no obvious humming, distortion, or electronic interference?
• Does the sound quality remain consistent throughout the recording?
• Background Music and Sound Effects
• If music and sound effects are used, do they enhance the text and support the vocal performance?
• Does the music represent the emotional and structural content of the text?
• Overall Rating
  The sum of all the criteria should represent the highest achievement in audiobooks for children and/or young adults, including
• excellence in narration;
• excellence of audio interpretation of story, theme, or concept;
• excellence of execution in the aural techniques of the medium;
• excellence in the delineation through the audio medium of literary elements including plot, theme, characters, mood, setting, or information presented
• excellence in the appropriateness of technique or treatment to the story, theme, or concept.
• The winner is announced after the Midwinter Meeting.

Morris Award:  Criteria

1. This award recognizes excellence by a first time author writing for young adults.
2. The winning title must exemplify the highest standards of young adult literature and must be well written. The book’s components [story, voice, setting, accuracy, style, characters, design, format, theme, illustration, organization, etc.] should be of high merit.
3. Popularity is not the criterion for this award, nor is the award based on the message or content of the book.
4. The book must have teen appeal or have the potential to appeal to teen readers.
5. In the sum of all the criteria, does the book represent the highest achievement in a debut work for young adults?

The award winner will be selected at the ALA Midwinter Meeting following committee discussions.

Outstanding Books for the College Bound:  Criteria

• Standard selection criteria consonant with the ALA Library Bill of Rights shall be applied.
• Although copyright is not a consideration, all titles should be widely available.
• Each category may have a special set of criteria.
• Books can be in print or out of print, in hardcover or paperback.
• Books that have appeared on earlier Outstanding Books lists or are available in revised editions are eligible.

The winner is announced late December/early January.

Popular Paperbacks:  Criteria

Titles must be in print and available in paperback.

1. Both young adult and adult titles may be considered.
2. Popularity is more important than literary quality.
3. Both fiction and non-fiction may be considered.
4. Copyright dates are not a consideration.
5. A book which has appeared on a previous Popular Paperbacks list can be selected after 5 years have passed since it last appeared on the list.
6. Nominations from authors or publishers for their own titles are not eligible for the list.
7. Each committee will have the latitude to select its own topics that meet the latest teen needs and interests, subject to prior approval by the Selection and Award Committees Oversight Committee (this will ensure the inclusion of timely topics, current trends, and emerging teen audiences/populations), but as a matter of course certain perennially popular genres, topics or themes should be considered. Some examples are adventure, autobiography/biography/diaries, fantasy, historical fiction, horror, humor, music, mystery, new voices, romance, science fiction, short stories, sports, suspense, and thrillers.   Another focus for themes that each committee should explore are titles aimed at a particular underserved or emerging teen audiences. Each committee should also seek out opportunities to tie their committee’s work to relevant YALSA initiatives, especially ones with annual themes that could be supported by PPYA, such as the YA Services Symposium and Teen Read Week™. 
8. Standard selection criteria consistent with the ALA Library Bill of Rights shall be applied.
9. Librarianship focuses on individuals, in all their diversity, and that focus is a fundamental value of the Young Adult Library Services Association and its members. Diversity is, thus, honored in the Association and in the collections and services that libraries provide to young adults.

This list has been retired. New lists will not be released.

Quick Picks for Reluctant Readers:  Criteria

These criteria are meant as suggestions for evaluating a book. Not all criteria may fit all books.

1.  Physical Appearance

• Cover - catchy, action-oriented, attractive, appealing, good "blurb"
• Print style - sufficiently large for enjoyable reading
• Format - appropriate and appealing balance of text and white space
• Artwork/illustrations - enticing, realistic, demonstrated diversity

2.  Style

• Clear writing that easily communicates without long convoluted sentences of sophisticated vocabulary
• Acceptable literary quality and effectiveness of presentation
• Simple vocabulary but not noticeably controlled

3.  Fiction

• High interest "hook" in first 10 pages
• Well-defined characters
• Sufficient plot to sustain interest
• Plot lines developed through dialog and action
•  Familiar themes with emotional appeal for teenagers
• Believable treatment
• Single point of view
• Touches of humor when appropriate
• Chronological order

4.  Informational Books

• Technical language acceptable if defined in context
•  Accuracy
• Objectivity

The winners will be available when finalized.

Reader’s Choice:  Criteria

• Titles must be published between November 1 of the prior year and October 31 of the current year. 
• If a title has been published in a foreign country prior to publication and release in the United States, then the US copyright is regarded as the official copyright for the purpose of this list.
• Titles must be widely available in the United States.
• Only titles marketed by a publisher for a teen/young adult audience may be considered.
• Popularity takes precedence over literary quality.
• Titles must be identified with one of the stated broad categories: horror/thriller, mystery/crime, nonfiction, realistic fiction, romance, science fiction/fantasy, and the ‘wild card’ that each committee chooses annually.
• Materials in different formats, such as graphic novels and poetry, are eligible for the list but must be identified with a particular category.
• Nominations from authors or publishers for their own titles are not eligible for the list.  Nominations are not eligible from current Readers’ Choice List Committee members.
• Standard selection criteria consistent with the ALA Library Bill of Rights shall be applied.

The winners will be posted online the first week of December.

Teens Top Ten:  Criteria

Any book of teen interest, fiction or nonfiction, adult or young adult, published during the previous year is eligible for the Teens’ Top Ten.  (January 1 through December 31). 

The week following voting closure (October 12th)  the winners will be announced.

Amazing Audiobooks:  Criteria

• All literary genres are eligible for consideration.
• The Team will consider and vote on titles published within the past two calendar years. A title may only be submitted once and cannot be reconsidered the next year.
• Audiobooks must be available for libraries to purchase and lend.  This can include a digital format that is available for lending or in a physical format.
• Titles previously published in another country (in any format) will be considered eligible the first year the title is available for libraries to purchase and lend in the US.
• Titles previously unavailable in a format for libraries to purchase and lend will be considered eligible the first year the title is available for libraries to purchase and lend.
• The audiobook is intended for or appeals to young adults, who are defined as persons age 12 to 18; works for this entire age range are to be considered.  Adult titles are also eligible for consideration if they have crossover appeal.
• Audiobooks featuring single or full cast narration are eligible.
• The Team Lead, with assistance from designated YALSA staff, is responsible for verifying the eligibility of all nominated titles.

The criteria against which any particular audiobook should be judged as a candidate for a final list of annual recommendations by YALSA include:

• Appeal of content to any or all potential listeners between 12 and 18 years old. While the list as a whole addresses the interests and needs of young adults ranging in age from 12 to 18, individual titles may appeal to parts of that range rather than to its whole. Material need not be “family friendly,” or appeal to the youngest common denominator of adults.
• Adapted materials must remain true to, expand, or complement the original work. 
• Effective use of voices, music, sound effects, and language.
• Appropriateness of material for audio presentation.
• Suitability of match between performer and text.
• Possible expansion of audience of young adults for a text that has not been readily accessible in its print format to its target audience.
• Professional production quality
• Correct pronunciation of all text words is required, however, a title would not necessarily be disqualified if an error is deemed by the Team to be minor. when evaluating the recording as a whole
• Clarity of recording is required.
• Informative packaging is preferred.

Curricular suitability can be a positive consideration but is not a requirement for inclusion.

Winners will be announced after December 31st.

YA Choices:  Criteria

 • Books must be published in calendar year 2019.

 • Fiction, nonfiction, and poetry are eligible for submission. The graphic novel format is also acceptable. 

• Young Adults’ Choices books must be for middle and secondary school students. Some adult books for the advanced young adult reader may be submitted, but keep in mind these are students in grades 7-12. (For younger students submit to the Children’s Choices)

 • Children’s books and books for middle grade readers are not appropriate for this project.

 • Sticker books, kits, calendars, and other novelties that are not practical for multiple-student usage are ineligible for submission. 

• All books must originate with a children’s trade publishing company or division. 

• Books must be published (not simply distributed) by a publisher incorporated in the United States.

 • Books originally published abroad are eligible only if they have a 2019 U.S. publication date; reprints or licensed editions of titles initially published in the U.S. before 2019 are not eligible.

 • Original paperbacks are eligible; paperback reprints are not. If a book is published simultaneously in hardcover and paperback, either edition may be submitted. If both editions are submitted, they constitute separate entries.

• Revised editions of books originally published in the U.S. before 2019 are eligible only if the book has been newly illustrated or if substantial text, constituting at least 25% of the book, has been changed or added.

• Spanish-language editions of titles published in English before 2019 are not acceptable. Spanishlanguage editions published in the U.S. simultaneously with English-language editions in 2019 are eligible. 

• Books published in November or December 2018 may be eligible. Please contact the CBC for more information. 

Winners are announced at the end of the year.

Lone Star Reading List:  Criteria

Eligibility Time Frame The Committee will consider and vote on books published within the 2 years prior to the year the list is published. Nominations may be accepted from the field and Committee up to October 1 of that calendar year. Field nominations require a second from a TLSRL committee member. Nominations must be submitted on the official form, which is available on the YART web site or from the current chair. The chair informs the committee of field nominations which remain active until all nominations are closed. If no committee member seconds the field nomination, the title is dropped from consideration.

 Nomination criteria: The book must be favorably reviewed in a scholarly journal for grades 6, 7, or 8. The person making the nomination must have read the book.

 Content: Only one book per author per genre may be included on the list. Titles shall be nominated that reflect a variety of difficulty levels for readers in grades 6-8, i.e. a book for unsophisticated readers beginning the sixth grade and one for mature eighth graders. The committee strives for a fairly equal distribution of books targeting each of the three grade levels and within each set further seeks balance in areas such as genre, gender appeal, interest, subject, and difficulty. 

The Texas Lone Star Reading List Committee will follow the following policy guidelines: • Statement on Intellectual Freedom: http://www.txla.org/intellectual-freedom • Library Bill of Rights: http://www.txla.org/pubs/ifhbk.html • ALA American Values Statement: http://www.ala.org/alaorg/oif/lib_val.html

Following its last meeting, the committee will provide the Young Adult Round Table with the final annotated list of selected titles.

TAYSHAS Reading List:  Criteria

Eligibility Time Frame The Committee will consider and vote on books published within the 2 years prior to the year the list is published. Nominations may be accepted from the field and Committee up to October 1 of that calendar year. Field/community suggestions must be submitted on the official form, which is available on the YART web site. Community suggestions will not be considered official Tayshas nominations until a Tayshas Committee member recommends them to the Tayshas Committee. The chair informs the committee of field suggestions which remain active until all nominations are closed. If no committee member recommends a field suggestion, the title is dropped from consideration. Nomination criteria The book must be favorably reviewed in a scholarly journal for grades 9-12. The person making the nomination must have read the book.

Content 

a. Titles shall be nominated that reflect a variety of difficulty levels for readers in grades 9-12, i.e. a book for unsophisticated readers beginning the ninth grade and one for mature twelfth graders. 

b. The committee strives for a fairly equal distribution of books targeting each of the four grade levels and within each set further seeks balance in areas such as genre, gender appeal, interest, subject, and difficulty. 

c. There will be no limit of titles by a specific author.

 d. A book may not be re-nominated that was considered the previous year by the Tayshas Committee. 

e. A book may not be considered if was chosen for the Lone Star Reading List the previous year.

The Tayshas High School Reading List Committee will follow the following policy guidelines: 

• Statement on Intellectual Freedom: http://www.txla.org/pubs/ifhbk.html 

• Library Bill of Rights: http://www.txla.org/pubs/ifhbk.html 

• “Free Access to Libraries for Minors”: http://www.txla.org/pubs/ifhbk.html

 • ALA American Values Statement: http://www.ala.org/alaorg/oif/lib_val.html

Following its last meeting, the committee will provide the Young Adult Round Table with the final annotated list of selected titles. The YART webmaster will post the list to the TLA website. This will occur after October 1st.

Maverick Reading List:  Criteria

• The content of the book must be relevant to readers in grades 6-12.
• The book must be relevant in subject, language and age.
• The book must have literary merit and wide appeal.
• The TMGNRL is intended for recreational reading and not to be restricted to supporting a specific curriculum. The list as a whole seeks balance in genre, gender appeal, interest, subject and difficulty.

Following its last meeting, the committee will provide the Young Adult Round Table with the final annotated list of selected titles. The YART webmaster will post the list to the TLA website. This will occur after October 1st.

Edgar Award for Mystery:  Criteria

1. The work must be published for the first time in the United States in 2019. Previously self-published works are ineligible, even if later (edited and) re-published by an approved publisher. Only a work with a copyright date of 2019 will be eligible for consideration in 2019 (with the following exception; see the note below). A self-published book (whether it is in print, in electronic format or offered for free on a blog or a website) that is republished by an Approved Publisher is a reprint, not a new work, and while it would qualify a writer for Active Status membership, it does not qualify for Edgar Award consideration.
2.  Foreign books may have an earlier copyright but the year of consideration must be the year of its first publication in the United States.
3. Television episodes must have been shown for the first time in the United States in 2019.
4. A work may be submitted to only one committee except in the case of the Robert L. Fish Award and the Mary Higgins Clark Award.

Winners are announced in April.

NCTE Awards for Excellence in Poetry for Children:  Criteria

• Literary Merit (art and craft of aggregate work–as poet or anthologist). Creating books of poetry that demonstrate imagination, authenticity of voice, evidence of a strong persona, and universality/timelessness are essential. In short, we are looking for a poet who creates poetry books that contain clean, spare lines; use language and form in fresh ways; surprise the reader by using syntax artistically; excite the reader’s imagination with keen perceptions and sharp images; touch the reader’s emotions: a maker of word events.
• Poet’s or Anthologist’s Contributions. Aggregate work, evident potential for growth and evolution in terms of craft, and excellence are considered.
• Evolution of the Poet’s or Anthologist’s Work. Technical and artistic development as evidenced in the poetry, evidence of risk, change, and artistic stamina, and evidence of different styles and modes of expression are considered.
• Appeal to Children. Although the appeal to children of a poet’s or anthologist’s work is an important consideration, the art and craft must be the primary criterion for evaluation. Evidence of students’ excitement for the poetry and evidence of childlike quality, yet poem’s potential for stirring fresh insights and feelings should be apparent.

The award is presented every other year by the chair of the NCTE Poetry Committee at the Children’s Book Awards Luncheon during the NCTE Annual Convention. The award recipient receives a plaque, is a featured speaker at the luncheon, and is invited to present at a poetry session during the NCTE Annual Convention.

Orbis Pictus:  Criteria

In identifying an “outstanding” book for children, the committee members will consider the following:

• Accuracy of presentation in both text and illustrative material, as well as appropriate documentation, avoidance of anthropomorphism and teleology, distinction between fact and theory, and balanced treatment.

• Organization of material (e.g., general to specific; specific to general) that contributes to clarity and accessibility.

• Style of writing that is engaging and is distinctive in its use of language.

• Style of illustration that is engaging, informative, and complements the text.

• Appropriateness of book design based on the topic or subject and with respect to the different age groups for which the topic or subject may be appropriate.

• Potential contribution to the K-8 curriculum.

The award is presented annually by the Chair of the Orbis Pictus Award Committee at the Children’s Book Awards Luncheon during the NCTE Annual Convention.

Batchelder Award:  Criteria

1. Focus of attention:

Primary attention must be directed to the text. Picture books should be considered only if the text is substantial and at least as important as the pictures. "Substantial text" means this is an award for translation and the text is the main consideration for the award. Illustrated books should be considered only if the text is as prominent and important as the illustrations.

2. Relationship to original work:

1. The translation should be true to the substance (e.g., plot, characterization, setting) and flavor of the original work and should retain the viewpoint of the author.
2. Reflection of the style of the author and of the original language are assets unless in the translation these reflections result in awkwardness in style or lack of clarity for children.
3. The book should not be unduly "Americanized." The book's reader should be able to sense that the book came from another country.

3. Quality of the United States Book:

1. The textual qualities to be evaluated will vary depending on the content and type of the book being considered. Each book should be evaluated only on the elements pertinent to it. These include:
• Interpretation of the theme or concept
• Presentation of information including accuracy, clarity, and organization
• Development of plot
• Delineation of characters
• Appropriateness of style
2. In all cases, committee members must consider the book's manner of presentation for and the potential appeal to a child audience.
3. Aspects of the overall design of the book should be considered when they significantly enhance or detract from the text, thus making the book more or less effective as a children's book. Such aspects might include: illustration, typeface, layout, book jacket, etc.
4. In some children's books, illustrations are important. In considering such a book, consideration should be given to the retention of the original illustrator's work in the U.S. edition.

The award is decided on and announced at the Midwinter Meeting of ALA, and the winning publisher receives a citation and commemorative plaque. The presentation used to be made on April 2, International Children's Book Day, but is now given at the ALA Annual Conference held each summer.

Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction:  Criteria

• A book must be published by a U.S. publisher.
• The setting must be South, Central or North America. 
• The author must be a U.S. citizen.
• Books published during each calendar year are eligible for the following year’s award. 

The annual award of $5,000 goes to an author for a meritorious book published in the previous year for children or young adults.  

Pura Belpre Award:  Criteria

Criteria for text

1. In identifying the author of an “outstanding” book for children, in addition to looking for an accurate and positive portrayal of the Latino culture, the committee members need to consider the following:

• Interpretation of the theme or concept
• Presentation of information including accuracy, clarity, and organization
• Development of a plot
• Delineation of characters
• Delineation of setting
• Appropriateness of style
• Note: Because the literary qualities to be considered will vary depending on content, the committee need not expect to find excellence in each of the above named elements. The book should, however, have distinguished qualities in all of the elements pertinent.
• Excellence of presentation for an intended child audience.

2.  In considering a book, the committee is to make its decision primarily on the text. Other aspects of a book are to be considered only if they distract from the text. Such other aspects might include illustrations, overall design of the book, etc.

3.  The book must be a self-contained entity, not dependent on other media (i.e., digital, sound or film equipment) for its enjoyment.

4.  The committee should keep in mind that the award is for both literary quality and presentation for children, as well as for its portrayal of the Latino cultural experience.     

5.  Particular attention will be paid to cultural authenticity.

Criteria for Illustrations

1. In identifying the illustrator of an outstanding picture book for children, committee members need to consider the following:           

• Excellence of execution in the artistic technique employed
• Excellence of pictorial interpretation of story, theme, or concept
• Appropriateness of style of illustration to the story, theme or concept
• Delineation of plot, theme, characters, setting mood or information through the pictures
• Positive and authentic portrayal of Latino culture
• Excellence of presentation for an intended child audience

2.  The only limitation to graphic form is that the form must be one, which may be used in a picture book. The book must be a self-contained entity, not dependent on other media (i.e., digital, sound or film equipment) for its enjoyment.

3.  Each book is to be considered as a picture book. The committee is to make its decision primarily on the illustrations. Other components of a book are to be considered, especially when they make a book less effective as a children’s picture book. Such other components might include the written text, the overall design of the book, etc.

4.  The committee should keep in mind that the award is for both distinguished illustrations in picture book and for excellence of pictorial presentation for children, and for the positive portrayal of the Latino cultural heritage.

5.  Particular attention will be paid to cultural authenticity.

The book and media awards are announced each year at ALA’s Midwinter Meeting in January. 

Schneider Family Award:  Criteria

1. Content

• May be fiction, biography, or other form of nonfiction. 

• Must portray the emotional, mental, or physical disability as part of a full life, not as something to be pitied. 

• Representation of characters with disabilities should be realistic, avoiding exaggeration or stereotypes.

 • Person with disability should be integral to the presentation, not merely a passive bystander. 

• The theme must be appropriate for and respectful of the intended audience age.

 • Information on a disability must be accurate.

 2. Style 

• Should be well written 

• Should be engaging with distinctive use of language for plot and character development and setting delineation.

 • Book should be judged on its own merit as a self-contained entity, not as part of a series, and irrespective of supportive materials such as a CD or other supplemental material. 

3. Illustration and Design

 • Text and images should complement or enhance each other, with differentiated contrast between text, pictures, and background.

 • Format and typeface must be of age appropriate size, clearly readable, and free of typographical errors. 

• Layout should be easy to follow, enhancing the flow of the story or information.

The Schneider Family Book Award plaques are presented to the winners in June at the ALA Awards ceremony, Sunday before the ALA President’s Program.

Sibert Award:  Criteria

In identifying the most distinguished informational book for children from the preceding year, committee members consider important elements and qualities:

• Excellent, engaging, and distinctive use of language.
• Excellent, engaging, and distinctive visual presentation.
• Appropriate organization and documentation.
• Clear, accurate, and stimulating presentation of facts, concepts, and ideas. 
• Appropriate style of presentation for subject and for intended audience.
• Supportive features (index, table of contents, maps, timelines, etc).
• Respectful and of interest to children.

Not every book relies equally on every element.  The committee need not find excellence in every element listed above but only in those relevant to the book.

The book must be a self-contained entity, not dependent on other media for enjoyment.

The Sibert Award is presented to honor distinguished informational books for children.  The award is not presented for didactic intent or for popularity.

This awarded annually to the author(s) and illustrator(s) of the most distinguished informational book published in the United States in English during the preceding year. 

Stonewall Award/Stonewall Contd:  Criteria

Awards are made in three categories: adult literature, adult nonfiction and children's and young adult literature. The adult literature category encompasses novels, short stories, poetry, and drama. The adult nonfiction category includes biography, history, criticism, reference works, fine arts, and other traditional nonfiction genres. Anthologies comprised of both nonfiction and literary pieces will be categorized by whichever form predominates. The children’s and young adult literature includes both fiction and non-fiction.

Awardees are expected to receive their award and give an acceptance speech during the Stonewall Book Awards Brunch during the ALA Annual Conference.

This extensive list gives many recommendations of great books that could be placed in a book collection. When deciding on what to add to the library looking to these lists is a great idea. YA Choices is one award that I will look to because students are involved in choosing the winners. Adding winners from this list to a collection would be a good way to obtain books that will be well received because they are of interest to the peer group.

Chapter 9: Poetry

Research on elementary students who were asked about poetry showed that they prefer narrative poems, dislike free verse and Haiku but prefer contemporary poems. They love rhythm, rhyme and sound as it relates to poetry. They love poems with familiar experiences, funny themes and animals.

When evaluating poetry for children there are criteria that one should focus on

Is it a familiar subject?

Does the poem use imagery?

Does it rhyme?

What role does sound play?

Poetry is a form of literature that could be studied in many different ways. The use of imagery could be depicted by having students do art projects related to the poems. Students could take from familiar subjects they read about in poems and expound on those experiences in discussion. The rhyme and sound of the poems could be set to music in a creative way to learn and enjoy them by memory.

Chapter 10: Historical Fiction

Any story set in the past could be considered historical fiction. The criteria for evaluating historical fiction includes:

Is the book telling a good story that incorporates history in it?

Are the historical facts in the book accurate?

Are the values of that time brought to life in the books?

Are the social norms of that day consistent in the book?

Does the theme relate to readers of today?

In historical fiction there may be great use of allusions and similes which would create a learning opportunity for these and other literary elements that may occur in this type of book. Historical fiction is also a great opportunity for a cross curriculum lesson involving the librarian, language arts and social studies teacher.