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Speaking Truth, Beautifully, to Shattered Young People with Poetry #JACBA Newsletter

Special Announcement

April 30th: Video announcement and press release made public Watch this space for a special announcement regarding the announcement of this year's Jane Addams Children's Book Award Winners and Honorees!

Speaking Truth, Beautifully, to Shattered Young People

Naomi Shihab Nye reminds our "obsessively tuned in" culture of the magic, power and necessity of "quiet inspiration." She reminds us that the more "connected" we've become, the more disconnected we actually are: "With so much vying for our attention," she asks, "how do we listen better?"

Habibi by Naomi Shihab Nye 1998 Awardee

Sitti's Secrets by Naomi Shihab Nye, illustrated by Nancy Carpenter 1995 Awardee

April 2018 Horn Book Herald: Spring News: Five questions for Margarita Engle

Most of the poetry written for young readers is straightforward and easy to understand, but it's meant to be experienced, not dissected. Instead of asking yourself, "What did the poet mean?" ask, "How does this poem make me feel?"

Silver People: Voices from the Panama Canal by Margarita Engle 2015 Awardee

The Surrender Tree: Poems of Cuba's Struggle for Freedom by Margarita Engle 2009 Awardee

Q & A with Jewell Parker Rhodes

In her latest novel for middle-grade readers, Ghost Boys, Jewell Parker Rhodes blends history with current events and historical characters with fictional ones to weave a tale of an African-American boy whose life is cut short by a white policeman's bullet. We spoke with Rhodes about her personal experiences of racism in America, why Emmett Till, an African-American teenager lynched in Mississippi in 1955, plays a major role in a story set in contemporary Chicago, and how writing this novel was painful, but also cathartic for her. Ghost Boys is Indiebound's #1 Kids Indie Next pick this spring.

Sugar by Jewell Parker Rhodes 2014 Awardee

The Ninth Ward by Jewell Parker Rhodes 2011 Awardee

Books about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

50 years after King assassination: Two books for young readers

On the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. comes this stunning poetic tribute to the martyred civil rights leader, focusing on the final weeks of his life as he heeded the call to come to the assistance of striking black sanitation workers in Memphis, Tenn., where he delivered his hauntingly prophetic "I've Been to the Mountaintop" speech.

11 Children's Books That Honor Martin Luther King Jr.'s Legacy

To keep his legacy alive, children's book authors have turned his call for equality and his message of peaceful protest into helpful history lessons. With these books, kids can learn about King's relatives and their activism, his unforgettable "I Have a Dream" speech, and his continuing impact.

16 Children's Books About Martin Luther King Jr.

Because why wouldn't we give our children as many resources as possible to learn about one of the most prolific people in our history? I can't see a reason not to and it's not just because I am a bibliophile. It's because on the anniversary of Dr. King's death - and every day - it's the smallest of ways to say thank you.

Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans written and illustrated by Kadir Nelson 2012 Awardee

The Village That Vanished written by Ann Grifalconi and illustrated by Kadir Nelson 2003 Awardee

Lillian's Right to Vote: A Celebration of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 by Jonah Winter, illustrated by Shane W. Evans 2016 Awardee

We March written and illustrated by Shane W. Evans 2013 Awardee

New Shoes by Susan Lynn Meyer, illustrated by Eric Velasquez 2016 Awardee

Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. written by Doreen Rappaport with artwork by Bryan Collier 2002 Awardee

Trouble at the Mines by Doreen Rappaport 1988 Awardee

Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney 2011 Awardee

Sojourner Truth's Step-Stomp Stride, by Andrea Davis Pinkney & Brian Pinkney 2010 Awardee

Birmingham, 1963 by Carole Boston Weatherford 2008 Awardee

We've Got a Job: The 1963 Birmingham Children's March by Cynthia Levinson 2013 Awardee

Hennessy highlights historic cycling champion Marshall 'Major' Taylor in latest campaign

Also, artist and cycling enthusiast Kadir Nelson created a modern bronze sculpture titled 'The Major,' and the National Brotherhood of Cyclists (NBC) and Hennessy will honor Taylor through education and tribute rides around Taylor's birthday.

Brainiac: Westminster City Council approves plans for a park and monument to honor landmark Mendez school desegregation case

"This case determined that no matter what color your skin is you can receive a quality education," said Sylvia Mendez, whose father, Gonzalo Mendez, launched the lawsuit when she and her siblings were denied enrollment at a Westminster school that only served white children.

"My father fought hard for my rights to go to a good school and he would be so proud to know that Westminster City Council is fighting to preserve his legacy," she said.

Separate is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez and her family's fight for desegregation, written and illustrated by Duncan Tonatiuh 2015 Awardee

TD unveils quilts designed by Ringgold

In the 1980s, Ringgold began a series of projects employing the medium of "story quilts," which are rooted in the African-American communal tradition of quilting and storytelling and have been critical in connecting stories across many generations.

Ringgold told the News that she is excited to use the familiar medium of "story quilts" to inspire members of the Yale community.

Aunt Harriet's Underground Railroad in the Sky by Faith Ringgold 1993 Awardee

Discussion with Calvin Alexander Ramsey

In 2010, Ramsey published Ruth and the Green Book, the only book written for children to explore the legacy of the Green Book, and he is the author of several other plays, musicals, and children's books.

Belle, the Last Mule at Gee's Bend written by Calvin Alexander Ramsey and Bettye Stroud, illustrated by John Holyfield 2012 Awardee

Ruth and the Green Book by Calvin Alexander Ramsey with Gwen Strauss and illustrated by Floyd Cooper 2011 Awardee

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The Jane Addams Children's Book Award annually recognizes children's books of literary and aesthetic excellence that effectively engage children in thinking about peace, social justice, global community, and equity for all people.

Read more about the 2017 Awards.

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Jonah Winter Discusses the Difficulties - and Necessities - of Introducing Picture Book Readers To Tough Topics #JACBA Newsletter

Special Announcement

Books and Authors

Acclaimed author Jonah Winter discusses the difficulties-and necessities-of introducing picture-book readers to tough topics.

Lillian's Right to Vote: A Celebration of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 by Jonah Winter 2016 Awardee

'Just Like Me!' is the subscription box every child of color deserves

The "Just Like Me!" box caters to children from the ages of 2 to 11.

Each month the box features two to three books from authors like Faith Ringgold, the author of "Tar Beach;" Maria Willis, an Atlanta native and the author of "The Secret Keeper;" and Ty Allan Jackson, the author of "Danny Dollar Millionaire," a book that teaches children early on about money and how to manage their finances.

For $28 per month, parents can skip the hassle of searching through bookstores and instead have books with African American characters delivered straight to their doorstep. As the child's reading level advances, so do the book selections.

Aunt Harriet's Underground Railroad in the Sky by Faith Ringgold 1993 Awardee

Festival Authors Inspire Local Young Readers and Writers

Kathryn Erskine, National Book Award-winning author of seven books for children and young adults, hails from Charlottesville and likes to challenge herself to get out of her comfort zone. She published two books on the same day in 2017, and each was a departure from her past work.

Seeing Red by Kathryn Erskine 2014 Awardee

Historian completes story revealing the identity of 11-year-old W.Va. coal miner from 1908

Historian and writer Joe Manning fell into his investigating by accident.

A friend, Elizabeth Winthrop, who is also a writer, saw a picture of a young girl who worked in a cotton mill in Vermont. She said the girl's name was Addie Card.

The photo, by Lewis Hine, was one of many in a campaign to bring awareness to child labor. Winthrop decided she was going to write a fictional story about the girl, giving her a fictional name.

Once the book was finished, she said she could finally figure out who the real Addie Card was. She asked Manning to do some digging and he agreed.

Counting on Grace by Elizabeth Winthrop 2007 Awardee

The Secret Language Of Quilting And The Underground Railroad

In the era of darkness before slavery was ended in America, quilts may have been used to help steer people in need of refuge to safety north in Canada. Some reliable evidence suggests various quilt squares served as advice or warnings. One example is a zigzag pattern that reminded the viewer of the quilt not to travel in a straight line in order to make it harder for any followers to track them. Another example is the Shoo Fly pattern, which meant, "scatter in all directions" if danger appeared. Both of these patterns, among others, are evident in a children's book titled "The Patchwork Path: A Quilt Map to Freedom" by Bettye Stroud.

Belle, the Last Mule at Gee's Bend written by Calvin Alexander Ramsey and Bettye Stroud, illustrated by John Holyfield 2012 Awardee

Haitian novelist Edwidge Danticat to discuss immigrant artists

Haitian-American novelist Edwidge Danticat will be speaking at a discussion with Paul Holdengraber at the New York Public Library in Midtown on April 6. Together the pair will be talking about the role of immigrant artists, the art they make, and their experiences.

Mama's Nightingale: A Story of Immigration and Separation written by Edwidge Danticat, illustrated by Leslie Staub 2016 Awardee

'Boots on the Ground' gives young people perspective on the Vietnam War

When Elizabeth Partridge began research for her new book, "Boots on the Ground: America's War in Vietnam" (Viking Books for Young Readers, $22.99, 224 pages), she never imagined its publication would feel so timely.

Marching for Freedom: Walk Together, Children, and Don't You Grow Weary by Elizabeth Partridge 2010 Awardee

Restless Spirit: The Life and Work of Dorothea Lange by Elizabeth Partridge 1999 Awardee

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Read more about the 2017 Awards.

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Jane Addams Award Winning Author Jacqueline Woodson Wins the World's Largest Prize for Children's Literature #JACBA Newsletter

Special Announcement

Jacqueline Woodson wins the world's largest prize for children's literature, the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award

Jacqueline Woodson, who won a National Book Award for her memoir in verse "Brown Girl Dreaming," won the 2018 Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award on Tuesday. Woodson is the 18th person or organization to win the prize, which is considered one of the most prestigious children's literary awards in the world.

Woodson becomes the fourth American author to win the Lindgren Award, after Maurice Sendak, Katherine Paterson and Meg Rosoff, an American-born writer who has lived in the United Kingdom for several years.

The award was accompanied by a citation from the jury who selected Woodson, which reads, "Jacqueline Woodson introduces us to resilient young people fighting to find a place where their lives can take root. In language as light as air, she tells stories of resounding richness and depth. Jacqueline Woodson captures a unique poetic note in a daily reality divided between sorrow and hope."

Each Kindness written by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by E.B. Lewis 2013 Awardee

From the Notebooks of Melanin Sun by Jacqueline Woodson 1996 Awardee

I Hadn't Meant to Tell You This by Jacqueline Woodson 1995 Awardee

Noted Canadian author drops by Rickson Ridge Public School Deborah Ellis, author of The Breadwinner, talks to students about understanding the humanity behind the issues

Ellis spoke to Rickson Ridge's Grade 7 students about understanding the people behind the war, behind the drugs and behind the prisons - all things she explores in her books.

"We have to be able to see the human person inside the person we're being told to kill," she said of war. "My feeling is that once we know somebody, it becomes harder to kill them, and I hope that's true."

Ellis has a new non-fiction work coming out this fall about young people who have been in the Canadian prison system.

The Heaven Shop by Deborah Ellis 2005 Awardee

The Breadwinner Trilogy, three books by Deborah Ellis 2004 Awardee

Parvana's Journey by Deborah Ellis 2003 Awardee

WHOEVER YOU ARE By Mem Fox Springs To Life At Stages Theatre Company

Stages Theatre Company's 2017-2018 season continues with the uplifting Whoever You Are, based on the bestseller by award-winning children's author Mem Fox with illustrations by Leslie Staub. Weaving a colorful tapestry of contemporary world music, dance, culture and celebration from countries around the globe, Whoever You Are illuminates the common threads we all share despite our many differences.

Mama's Nightingale: A Story of Immigration and Separation written by Edwidge Danticat, illustrated by Leslie Staub 2016 Awardee

NYTimes: Russell Freedman, 88, Writer of History for Young Readers, Dies

Beginning in 1961, Mr. Freedman wrote more than 60 books, most of them about the people, movements and events that shaped the world, and especially the United States. There were biographies like "Eleanor Roosevelt: A Life of Discovery" (1993) and "Becoming Ben Franklin" (2013). There were books about conflicts, like "The War to End All Wars" (2010), about World War I; and "Vietnam" (2016). There were books about young people who did impressive or courageous things, like "We Will Not Be Silent: The White Rose Student Resistance Movement That Defied Adolf Hitler" (2016).

We Will Not Be Silent: The White Rose Student Resistance Movement That Defied Adolf Hitler by Russell Freedman 2017 Awardee

Freedom Walkers by Russell Freedman 2007 Awardee

Kids at Work: Lewis Hine and the Crusade Against Child Labor by Russell Freedman 1995 Awardee

Eleanor Roosevelt: A Life of Discovery by Russell Freedman 1994 Awardee

Books: Marking 50 years since MLK’s death

In January, we commemorated the 89th anniversary of his birth. And on April 4, we mark the 50th anniversary of his 1968 assassination.

Two new books offer different but compelling portraits of King and his legacy:

Rather than surveying King’s entire life, author Andrea Davis Pinkney and her husband, illustrator Brian Pinkney, focus on why he was in Memphis in 1968.

Nearly every poem in the book carries a date, and the emotional peak arrives April 3, the night before King was killed. Young readers will surely be struck by the power and premonition of his final speech.

"Martin Rising" ends with a call to action: "When we speak out, seek peace, teach the truth, we all rise to a better tomorrow. And the time is now."

Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney 2011 Awardee

Sojourner Truth's Step-Stomp Stride, by Andrea Davis Pinkney & Brian Pinkney 2010 Awardee

Oklahoma Book Awards finalists announced

In addition to the literary awards, the Oklahoma Center for the Book will present the 2018 Arrell Gibson Lifetime Achievement Award to award-winning American Indian author, storyteller, performer Tim Tingle, a member of the Choctaw Nation.

Named for Norman historian Arrell Gibson, the first president of the Oklahoma Center for the Book, the Gibson award recognizes a writer for a body of work contributing to Oklahoma's literary heritage.

Crossing Bok Chitto: told in written form by nationally recognized Choctaw storyteller Tim Tingle 2007 Awardee

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Read more about the 2017 Awards.

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Honoring The Life of Prolific Youth Nonfiction Writer Russell Freedman #JACBA Newsletter

Special Announcement

Celebrate The Life of Prolific Youth Nonfiction Writer Russell Freedman With His Books

The youth literature world lost a giant last week. Russell Freedman, author of roughly 50 books for young readers, died on Friday, March 16, 2018, at the age of 88.

"I write for anyone who can read…up to senility. A good book for kids is also a good book for their parents and grandparents. If my grown-up friends cannot read one of my books with interest and respect, then it's not a good book for kids." -Russell Freedman

We Will Not Be Silent: The White Rose Student Resistance Movement That Defied Adolf Hitler by Russell Freedman 2017 Awardee

Freedom Walkers by Russell Freedman 2007 Awardee

Kids at Work: Lewis Hine and the Crusade Against Child Labor by Russell Freedman 1995 Awardee

Eleanor Roosevelt: A Life of Discovery by Russell Freedman 1994 Awardee

This 1951 Student Strike Laid the Groundwork for Brown v. Board of Education

Nearly 70 years before Emma González became one of the faces of the Parkland student movement against gun violence, another teenager stood up for her rights and led the way to historic change.

Barbara Rose Johns is arguably the most overlooked hero of the civil rights movement. In 1951, as a 16-year-old junior at Moton High School in Farmville, Virginia, she took a huge personal risk by leading her entire school out on strike in the fight for racial equality.

The Girl From the Tar Paper School: Barbara Rose Johns and the advent of the Civil Rights Movement by Teri Kanefield 2015 Awardee

Bloody Sunday survivor and youngest Selma marcher inspires Memphis high school students

As a young teenager, Lynda Blackmon Lowery learned the principle of nonviolence.

Lowery conveyed passion, humor and energy as she captivated the crowd talking about how she became a fearless civil rights leaders at such a young age.

Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom: My Story of the 1965 Selma Voting Rights March by Lynda Blackmon Lowery 2016 Awardee

Books by the Bay: Women authors deliver tales of family, flight, immigration, war and feminism

"Boots on the Ground: America's War in Vietnam" by Elizabeth Partridge (Viking, $22.99, 212 pages)

Berkeley-based Elizabeth Partridge, a National Book Award finalist and author of previous books on Dorothea Lange, Woody Guthrie and John Lennon, delves into the Vietnam War in this engaging illustrated history. With analysis of the politics and protests of the era and interviews with American soldiers and Vietnamese refugees, "Boots on the Ground" is designed for young readers. But Partridge makes it a must-read for anyone interested in learning more about the war.

Marching for Freedom: Walk Together, Children, and Don't You Grow Weary by Elizabeth Partridge 2010 Awardee

Restless Spirit: The Life and Work of Dorothea Lange by Elizabeth Partridge 1999 Awardee

Author Lita Judge on Mary Shelley, Feminism and Reclaiming Your Voice

"Mary Shelley wasn't just the author of Frankenstein, she was a radical teenage girl who helped set in motion the feminist movement by defying the restrictions society imposed upon women. She dared to challenge tyrannical power, unjust wars, slavery, and neglect of the poor in her book. She changed the course of literature by inventing the Industrial Age science fiction novel, and delivered the most iconic monster ever created. I wrote Mary's Monster to honor her strength and passion."-Lita Judge

One Thousand Tracings: Healing the Wounds of World War II by Lita Judge 2008 Awardee

10 authors on the St. Louis Walk of Fame - and a few who should be

Fred and Patricia McKissack published more than 100 children's books, mostly about African-American life and history. Patricia McKissack was known as the writer and her husband as the researcher, but they always emphasized that they were a team. For their deep and groundbreaking work, they are clear candidates for their own star.

A Long Hard Journey: The Story of the Pullman Porter by Patricia and Fredrick McKissack 1990 Awardee

Reading Corner: Picture books depict lives of women in history

In The World Is Not a Rectangle: A Portrait of Architect Zaha Hadid, author Jeanette Winter follows Hadid from a childhood in Baghdad, where she was fascinated by the patterns and ruins around her, to her global career as a successful architect and designer of buildings that "swoosh and zoom and flow and fly."

Nasreen's Secret School: A True Story from Afghanistan by Jeanette Winter 2010 Awardee

In New Books for Kids, Women's Victories Speak Loud and Clear

"Votes for Women" starts with the pivotal moment of success that came with Harry Burn's defining vote to ratify the 19th Amendment in 1920, then immediately zooms out. The fight for suffrage was won one day in the Tennessee statehouse, but it started nearly a century earlier, and that's where "Votes for Women" opts to begin, pulling back the curtain on 100 years of struggle.

VOTES FOR WOMEN: American Suffragists and the Battle for the Ballot (Algonquin, 320 pp., $19.95; ages 12 and up), by Winifred Conkling

Sylvia & Aki by Winifred Conkling 2012 Awardee

Momaha bookshelf: 5 books to check out this month for kids and teens

"Ordinary, Extraordinary Jane Austen" by Deborah Hopkinson. A gorgeous picture book about English writer Jane Austen, who penned popular novels such as "Sense and Sensibility" and "Pride and Prejudice." A good introduction for youngsters, it tells you about the young Jane who was a bit quiet and shy and loved to read. She watched and listened and soon starting writing her own tales.

Steamboat School, written by Deborah Hopkinson, illustrated by Ron Husband, 2017 Awardee

Girl Wonder: A Baseball Story in Nine Innings by Deborah Hopkinson, illustrated by Terry Wideners, 2004 Awardee

Shutting Out the Sky: Life in the Tenements of New York 1880-1924 by Deborah Hopkinson 2004 Awardee

A Band of Angels: A Story Inspired written by the Jubilee Singers by Deborah Hopkinson, illustrated by Raúl Colón, 2000 Awardee

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Read more about the 2017 Awards.

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Faith Ringgold's Art Frees Absent and Buried Voices #JACBA Newsletter

Special Announcement

Faith Ringgold

Faith Ringgold's famous 'story quilts' come to the Crocker

Artist, activist and author Faith Ringgold works in many media - painting, drawing, prints, sculpture, masks and Tankas (painted fabrics inspired by Tibetan textiles) - but she is best known for her vibrant "story quilts" that deal with family life, jazz music, relationships, race and slavery in America.

POWER IN THE PAINTING: FAITH RINGGOLD AND HER STORY QUILTS

Through this didactic retelling of history, Faith Ringgold uses her quilts to reframe the past, freeing absent and buried voices while offering new and stronger voices to future generations.

Aunt Harriet's Underground Railroad in the Sky by Faith Ringgold 1993 Awardee

Five questions for Winifred Conkling

Like it or not, the women's movement was divided by racism in the nineteenth century. The issue needs to be openly discussed because it happened. It's also important that young readers learn to appreciate their heroines as flawed and complex human beings.

Sylvia & Aki by Winifred Conkling 2012 Awardee

Picture Books to Help Kids Weather Our Age of Anxiety

New York Times Article by Linda Sue Parks

A Long Walk to Water: Based on a True Story by Linda Sue Park 2011 Awardee

When My Name Was Keoko by Linda Sue Park 2003 Awardee

The Book That Helps Me Survive In A Racist World

Virginia Hamilton and illustrators retold The People Could Fly in a collection of black vernacular stories published in 1985, and when my mother read those stories to me as a child, the words burrowed deep.

The best children's books make the most vulnerable among us feel proud. Strong. It's a forever gift, like a parent's unconditional love. Yes, Hamilton sets out to portray the realities of slavery, but in doing so, she carefully guards the humanity of her audience.

Anthony Burns: The Defeat and Triumph of a Fugitive Slave by Virginia Hamilton 1989 Awardee

Naomi Shihab Nye

Painting poetry portraits of influential people

Themes of "Voices in the Air" include the act of listening, political and civil unrest, cultural differences and the wonder in everyday living - themes Nye has addressed throughout her work.

Poets Nye, Sotelo and Tartt to headline April 15 fundraiser for Laura Riding Jackson Foundation

Nye, a self-described "wandering poet," has traveled the world, leading writing workshops and inspiring students of all ages for 40 years. Born to a Palestinian father and American mother of German and Swiss descent, Nye spent her adolescence in Jerusalem and San Antonio, Texas.

Habibi by Naomi Shihab Nye 1998 Awardee

Sitti's Secrets by Naomi Shihab Nye, illustrated by Nancy Carpenter 1995 Awardee

American Students Have Simple Demands

On May 2, 1963, thousands of students walked out of their schools in Birmingham, Alabama, to protest the racially segregated society in which they were meant to live. By the end of the day, over 1,000 of them were in jail. More of them walked out the next day. Some of them were blown down the concrete sidewalk with fire hoses, blown like trash into the gutters of the city. One of them was a nine-year-old named Audrey Faye Hendricks. In Cynthia Levinson's excellent account of those days, there is a conversation that Audrey Faye Hendricks had with her mother:

But, before she could be free, there was something important she had to do. "I want to go to jail," Audrey had told her mother.

So, when tens of thousands of schoolchildren walked out of class all over America on Wednesday, they weren't merely acting in a brave and proud tradition.

Depending on how rigid their principals and school boards are, they also were taking a considerable chance.

We've Got a Job: The 1963 Birmingham Children's March by Cynthia Levinson 2013 Awardee

How former Michigan autoworker Christopher Paul Curtis became a beloved chronicler of Canadian History

In January, Scholastic published the third book in what it is calling Curtis's Buxton Chronicles, The Journey of Little Charlie.

When we first meet Charlie in 1858, he's a product of his environment, who has never had a reason to question the ways of the South. Things change once he makes his first journey away from home, accompanying a local plantation overseer north to retrieve a family of runaway slaves. Witnessing the ignorance and vileness of his travelling companion - a self proclaimed "slave catcher" - and faced with the task of shackling the former slaves in the streets of Detroit, Charlie's conscience is awakened and he becomes a character today's readers can get behind.

Elijah of Buxton by Christopher Paul Curtis 2008 Awardee

The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis 1996 Awardee

Underground Railroad Heritage Center

Storytelling will be enhanced by engaging digital media, graphics and other programming, as well as animated watercolors from award-winning illustrator E.B. Lewis and voice-over work by Emmy Award-winning actor Keith David.

"Our goal is to help visitors recognize that some modern injustices have direct roots in slavery, while other contemporary struggles parallel those of nineteenth century freedom seekers,"

First Step: How One Girl Put Segregation on Trial, written by Susan E. Goodman, illustrated by E. B. Lewis, 2017 Awardee

Each Kindness written by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by E.B. Lewis 2013 Awardee

Night Boat to Freedom, written by Margot Theis Raven with pictures by E. B. Lewis 2007 Awardee

Students learn life lessons from Battle of the Books

"Wolf Hollow" by Lauren Wolk, set in a rural Pennsylvania community during World War II, was mentioned more than once as a favored book this year. "It taught me that when things are hard to do, what's good is to do the right thing," said Waynesville Middle's Mariel Ottinger. Her teammate Scarlett Strickland added that it taught her about "how to deal with bullies and be responsible."

Wolf Hollow by Lauren Wolk 2017 Awardee

Don't burn the opportunity to participate in, support Big Read

Joseph Bruchac, renowned writer of Native American heritage and traditions, will be present to lead families along the trail and give out free copies of his book "How the Chipmunk Got Its Stripes."

The Heart of a Chief by Joseph Bruchac 1999 Awardee

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Read more about the 2017 Awards.

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Books for Every Girl During Women's History Month #JACBA Newsletter

Women's History Month

32 books every little girl should read during Women's History Month

From the women who wanted to go to the stars, to women who wanted to save the earth. From women who wanted to vote, to women who wanted to judge. From women who wanted to be doctors, to women who wanted to take the stage. This list is filled with fun stories that are sure to leave a lasting impression on your little one's imagination even beyond Women's History Month.

The struggle for women's rights and other lessons for young readers

Many young readers might rightfully wonder: How could it possibly have taken until 1920 for women to win the right to vote? Two new books make clear how fierce the struggle was, exploring how generations of female activists challenged women's inferior status and faced derision, physical attacks and (in the 1910s) lengthy imprisonment.

Young adult lit roundup: 'Votes for Women!' and two novels-in-verse reviewed

Still, it gives hope that, no matter how broken the system, no matter much our beliefs seem to divide us, change can happen.

10 Amazing Facts About Suffrage to Remember on International Women's Day

Author Winifred Conkling details many inequalities women faced before the 20th century, and the long fight for women's suffrage in Votes for Women! American Suffragists and the Battle for the Ballot (Algonquin).

Sylvia & Aki by Winifred Conkling 2012 Awardee

Children's Literature Community Rallies Around #Kidlitwomen

According to the initiative's organizers, author-illustrator Grace Lin and author Karen Blumenthal, who set up the Kidlitwomen Facebook page, and the Twitter hashtag, #kidlitwomen, the goal is to "call attention to the gender inequalities of the children's literature community, uplifting those who have not received their due, and finding solutions to reach equality for all."

Let Me Play: The Story of Title IX, the Law that Changed the Future of Girls in America by Karen Blumenthal 2006 Awardee

Books into Movies

'A Wrinkle in Time' and Black girls at the center of the universe

When it was announced that Ava Duvernay's movie version of A Wrinkle in Time would star a little Black girl, I thought about myself as a child. I thought about my Little and I thought about all the little Black girls who'll get to see this movie, and who will live and breathe the fantasy of it all. What will it mean for their creative journeys to always have stories that are centered on women that look like themselves? I can't wait to find out.

8 books by people of color that are currently being adapted for TV and film

(Walter Dean) Myers, who published more than 100 books, spent his career focusing on humanizing youth with troubled backgrounds. His desire to give these teens an opportunity to see themselves in literature was fueled by his time in the foster care system growing up in Morningside Heights, Manhattan. Myers said these youth "want to read these stories, because they want to know they're going to be OK," he told Christian Science Monitor in 2012.

Now Is Your Time! The African-American Struggle for Freedom by Walter Dean Myers 1992 Awardee

Patrol: An American Soldier in Vietnam by Walter Dean Myers 2003 Awardee

20 Kid and Teen Books Hollywood Should Adapt After 'A Wrinkle in Time'

Though much darker than some other stories featured on this list, "Esperanza" still has something to offer young readers; it's an exercise in resilience and seeing the silver lining of any misfortune.

Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan 2001 Awardee

Naomi Shihab Nye

Poetry that explores love and aggression, baseball and the natural world

Voices in the Air (Greenwillow Books) presents nearly 100 new poems by Naomi Shihab Nye, a finalist for the National Book Award in 2002 for "19 Varieties of Gazelle: Poems of the Middle East."

Together, the poems create a vivid illustration of how to write and live fearlessly. As Nye notes in one of the final poems, sunsets, trouble and full moons are for everyone: "We're all poets rippling with/ layers of memories,/ mostly what we might forget./ Let it belong. Every pocket,/ satchel, hand."

Stellfox Scholar Speaks of Diplomacy, Food

"I really believe in diplomacy," Nye said of her the political nature of some of her poems. "I like embassies... secret diplomats are what we must be." She added that "Poets never assume that people will read their poems, we just hope that now and then it will happen." On the purpose of poetry, Nye said the question of "Where are you?" is integral because "This is what poetry tries to help us answer every day."

Habibi by Naomi Shihab Nye 1998 Awardee

Sitti's Secrets by Naomi Shihab Nye, illustrated by Nancy Carpenter 1995 Awardee

Standout New Picture Books

This warm trip through the wonderland of Grandma Mimi's purse is really a tribute to the steadying force of grandparental love in a child's life. It also brims with adorable small stuff to look at. No illustrator does clothes, décor and style better than Brantley-Newton ("The Youngest Marcher").

We Shall Overcome: The Story of a Song written by Debbie Levy, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton 2014 Awardee

Black Kids Don't Want to Read About Harriet Tubman All the Time

I eventually discovered the treasure trove that is Just Us Books, and works by Andrea Davis Pinkney and Eloise Greenfield. Still, the pickings were slim.

Real diversity would celebrate the mundane - like a little kid going out after a snowstorm - rather than the exceptional.

Paul Robeson by Eloise Greenfield 1976 Awardee

Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney 2011 Awardee

Sojourner Truth's Step-Stomp Stride, by Andrea Davis Pinkney & Brian Pinkney 2010 Awardee

33rd Texas Storytelling Festival unites speakers and listeners with words

Tingle currently has 17 published works. Although he enjoys writing, he also appreciates the unique experience of oral storytelling because of the impact of tone and silent pauses.

"You can't do silence on the page because everything is silent," Tingle said

Crossing Bok Chitto: told in written form by nationally recognized Choctaw storyteller Tim Tingle 2007 Awardee

BC Artist George Littlechild Encourages Individual Exploration of Truth and Reconciliation

Littlechild uses his work as a way to learn from and work through the collective wounds we as Canadians must all understand in order to heal, rather than dwell only upon the past. As an example of this, Littlechild's next project focuses on his mother and her lost potential, passing away in her 30s. But rather than focusing only the sadness of her death, the series will show the beauty of her spirit and its gravity.

This Land Is My Land written by George Littlechild 1994 Awardee

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History will be kinder to student organizers of walkout than their critics #JACBA Newsletter

History will be kinder to student organizers of walkout than their critics

In Phillip Hoose's book, "Claudette Colvin: Twice Toward Justice," Colvin recounts her fear of reprisals for her activism, although it was the armed Klan she worried about, not a college rejection letter.

Her words should inspire Georgia teens facing pressure to remain silent. "But worried or not, I felt proud. I had stood up for our rights. I had done something a lot of adults hadn't done."

Hey, Little Ant by Phillip and Hannah Hoose 1999 Awardee

Claudette Colvin by Phillip Hoose 2010 Awardee

She Walked the Walk: How Barbara Johns Continues to Inspire Us

This Black History Month we remember the life, the courage, and the sacrifice of Barbara Rose Johns. Her actions inspire us to keep walking the walk, just like she did.

The Girl From the Tar Paper School: Barbara Rose Johns and the advent of the Civil Rights Movement by Teri Kanefield 2015 Awardee

We Asked for Your Favorite Hidden Figures From Black History. Your Responses Were Powerful.

"First she liberated herself by registering to vote, and then she helped to liberate others by spreading that message and recruiting others to register to vote," explains Carole Boston Weatherford, a New York Times bestselling author who writes about heroes and forgotten struggles for children. Her book Voice of Freedom: Fannie Lou Hamer: Spirit of the Civil Rights Movement, chronicles Hamer's life through first-person poetry.

CFA Institute Supports Diversity at the 2018 Festival of the Book

Conversations that broaden one's thinking, that help support empathy, and that welcome all participants are more important to our community-and our nation-than ever.

African-American Heroes: Lives Told in Pictures-Lesa Cline-Ransome (Before She was Harriet), James Ransome (Be a King), and Carole Boston Weatherford (Schomburg) read from and discuss their historical picture books, which tell important stories of African-American heroes in the Civil Rights and social justice movements.

Birmingham, 1963 by Carole Boston Weatherford 2008 Awardee

The legacy of storytelling in African-American history

"My coming to writing was both an act of resistance, because how dare me not be on the pages. And a desire to not have my experience of spending many years not seeing myself on the pages happen for another young person," Woodson said.

Young People's Ambassador Jacqueline Woodson

The Library of Congress in collaboration with the Children's Book Council and Every Child a Reader inaugurated Jacqueline Woodson as the new National Ambassador for Young People's Literature.

Each Kindness written by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by E.B. Lewis 2013 Awardee

From the Notebooks of Melanin Sun by Jacqueline Woodson 1996 Awardee

I Hadn't Meant to Tell You This by Jacqueline Woodson 1995 Awardee

If Afghanistan Ran The Oscars, 'The Breadwinner' Would Triumph

"After the movie was over and the lights were turned back on, I saw tears in the eyes of many Afghans. I couldn't stop my own tears," says Abdul Rahim Ahmad Parwani, deputy country director of Canadian Women for Women in Afghanistan, an organization that supports education for Afghan women and girls. "There was a short uncalled-for silence at the end of the film. That itself explains how the movie connected with Afghans."

How screenwriter Anita Doron adapted The Breadwinner into an Oscar-nominated film

Since it was published in 2000, the YA novel The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis has resonated with readers around the world. The story centers on 11-year-old Parvana, who must disguise herself as a boy to work in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan after her father is inexplicably taken to prison. The Breadwinner was recently adapted into an animated film, which was produced by Angelina Jolie.

The Heaven Shop by Deborah Ellis 2005 Awardee

The Breadwinner Trilogy, three books by Deborah Ellis 2004 Awardee

Parvana's Journey by Deborah Ellis 2003 Awardee

Children's Books: India Before & After

Claire A. Nivola's delicate watercolors show him collecting cast-off materials and then slowly, on disused scrubland, constructing a hidden world of sculptures, mosaics and flowering plants. Incredibly, we're told, "Nek built his kingdom over twelve acres and kept it secret for fifteen years," and in a jaw-dropping two-page fold-out of photographs at the end, we see his secret kingdom's stunning contours. It's an amazing, impossible creation-and it's real.

Emma's Poem: The Voice of the Statue of Liberty, written by Linda Glaser with paintings by Claire A. Nivola 2011 Awardee

Planting the Trees of Kenya: The Story of Wangari Maathai, written and illustrated by Claire A. Nivola 2009 Awardee

The Bookshelf: In 'Mary's Monster,' Mary Shelley Comes to Life

This week on The Bookshelf from NHPR is Lita Judge of Peterborough. Mary Shelley's novel, Frankenstein, was first published 200 years ago. It told the story of Dr. Frankenstein who created a living thing, a monster, using parts of human bodies stolen from a graveyard. A new book by Peterborough author and illustrator Lita Judge tells the story of how Mary Shelley came to write her most famous novel. It's called, Mary's Monster.

Lita Judge's Reading Recommendations: Enchanted Air: Two Cultures, Two Wings: A Memoir by Margarita Engle. "I adore Margarita Engle. She is a beautiful Cuban-American poet who writes with such evocative language. This is a memoir in verse. It's a transporting experience to live through her eyes. We learn compassion and kindness for other people through their personal stories."

One Thousand Tracings: Healing the Wounds of World War II by Lita Judge 2008 Awardee

Silver People: Voices from the Panama Canal by Margarita Engle 2015 Awardee

The Surrender Tree: Poems of Cuba's Struggle for Freedom by Margarita Engle 2009 Awardee

Well constructed in South Sudan

The project began during the 2015-16 school year after Fort Loudoun Middle School students read "A Long Walk to Water" by Linda Sue Park, which includes a true story of Salva Dut, a Sudanese Lost Boy, and a fictional story of young village girl Nya. The book was distributed to each middle school over the course of a year.

A Long Walk to Water: Based on a True Story by Linda Sue Park 2011 Awardee

When My Name Was Keoko by Linda Sue Park 2003 Awardee

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Oscar nominee The Breadwinner (based on the Jane Addams book) Echoes A Broader Shift to Cultural Diversity in Film #JACBA Newsletter 02Mar2018

How Two Nominees for Best Animated Feature Found the Right Sound

Academy Award winner Angelina Jolie put her producing muscle behind The Breadwinner, Irish filmmaker Nora Twomey's adaptation of Deborah Ellis's 2000 best-selling young-adult novel about an 11-year-old Afghan girl. The film is voiced almost entirely by relatively unknown Afghan actors....

The Heaven Shop by Deborah Ellis 2005 Awardee

The Breadwinner Trilogy, three books by Deborah Ellis 2004 Awardee

Parvana's Journey by Deborah Ellis 2003 Awardee

Drawing Black History: 4 Children's Book Illustrators Show Us How

Maria Russo: And the author is Cynthia Levinson, who is a fantastic historian for children. She writes for children, but I learn from her books. Every one of them teaches me, too.

Also features Vanessa Brantley-Newton, Bryan Collier, Carole Boston Weatehrford, and R. Gregory Christie.

We've Got a Job: The 1963 Birmingham Children's March by Cynthia Levinson 2013 Awardee

We Shall Overcome: The Story of a Song written by Debbie Levy, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton 2014 Awardee

Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. written by Doreen Rappaport with artwork by Bryan Collier 2002 Awardee

The Book Itch: Freedom, Truth & Harlem's Greatest Bookstore by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie 2016 Awardee

Birmingham, 1963 by Carole Boston Weatherford 2008 Awardee

Children's authors to bring windows and mirrors to 10th annual book festival

“There's mirrors and windows,” author Margarita Engle says. “Children might see themselves in my books and that would be a mirror. Other children might look at my books and learn about other people and other cultures. That would be a window.”

For Cynthia Levinson, she has strayed away from the typical picture book. Instead, she has written a number of political books, including “Fault Lines in the Constitution.” Levinson also gives interactive presentations and workshops for children.

Silver People: Voices from the Panama Canal by Margarita Engle 2015 Awardee

The Surrender Tree: Poems of Cuba's Struggle for Freedom by Margarita Engle 2009 Awardee

We've Got a Job: The 1963 Birmingham Children's March by Cynthia Levinson 2013 Awardee

Roundup of children's books

Re: Twelve Days in May: Freedom Ride 1961 By Larry Dane Brimner

Terrorism is not new in America. That's the big takeaway from this sobering day-by-day account about how 13 civil rights activists travel south to challenge illegal segregation on the buses that cross interstate lines and at bus stations too.

We Are One: The Story of Bayard Rustin by Larry Dane Brimner 2008 Awardee

Birmingham Sunday by Larry Dane Brimner 2011 Awardee

In New Novels for Kids, Dangerous Journeys and Hockey Madness

Curtis's ninth novel is among his most suspenseful, an adventure story about a white sharecropper's son in antebellum South Carolina...

Raised in poverty, ignorance and racism, Charlie develops his own moral compass - and becomes brave enough to act on it.

Also features Cynthia Kadohata.

Elijah of Buxton by Christopher Paul Curtis 2008 Awardee

The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis 1996 Awardee

Weedflower by Cynthia Kadohata 2007 Awardee

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Addams Author Eloise Greenfied is 2018 Coretta Scott King-Virginia Hamilton Award #JACBA Newsletter 23Feb2018

The Coretta Scott King Book Awards

Eloise Greenfield is the recipient of the 2018 Coretta Scott King-Virginia Hamilton Award for Lifetime Achievement.

"Eloise Greenfield is a trailblazer whose extraordinary books of poetry and prose have influenced many and continue to resonate with children today. Her rich body of work inspires and enriches readers," said Award Committee Chair Deborah D. Taylor.

Paul Robeson by Eloise Greenfield 1976 Awardee

UC San Diego exhibition features work by 7 leading international women

The seven artists - Eleanor Antin, Barbara Kruger, Faith Ringgold, Martha Rosler, Miriam ... Substantiate Our Horror" (1985), Faith Ringgold's hand-stenciled quilt "Seven Passages to a Flight"...

Presented together for the first time, seven internationally recognized artists are featured in the UC San Diego exhibition "Stories That We Tell: Art and Identity," celebrating those who paved the way for greater inclusion by inventing new means to address issues of race and gender.

The seven artists - Eleanor Antin, Barbara Kruger, Faith Ringgold, Martha Rosler, Miriam Schapiro, Lorna Simpson and Carrie Mae Weems - have all been honored with major exhibitions at leading museums, recognized with prestigious awards and are all representative of the university's Department of Visual Arts.

"Faith Ringgold: An American Artist" to open at the Crocker Art Museum

"In the exhibition Faith Ringgold: An American Artist, there is warmth, charm, and straightforward honesty in Ringgold's art," said Crocker Art Museum Associate Curator Kristina Gilmore. "It draws us in and disarms us, then often reveals powerful messages. Through her work, she speaks truths that are sometimes haunting and painful, but often joyful and heartwarming. It's quite inspirational."

Aunt Harriet's Underground Railroad in the Sky by Faith Ringgold 1993 Awardee

Exploring the Black Experience through the Art

"Create Dangerously - In this deeply personal book, the celebrated Haitian-American writer Edwidge Danticat reflects on art and exile, examining what it means to be an immigrant artist from a…

In this deeply personal book, the celebrated Haitian-American writer Edwidge Danticat reflects on art and exile, examining what it means to be an immigrant artist from a country in crisis. Inspired by Albert Camus' lecture, "Create Dangerously," and combining memoir and essay, Danticat tells the stories of artists, including herself, who create despite, or because of, the horrors that drove them from their homelands and that continue to haunt them. Danticat also suggests that the aftermaths of natural disasters in Haiti and the United States reveal that the countries are not as different as many Americans might like to believe.

Create Dangerously is an eloquent and moving expression of Danticat's belief that immigrant artists are obliged to bear witness when their countries of origin are suffering from violence, oppression, poverty, and tragedy.

Mama's Nightingale: A Story of Immigration and Separation written by Edwidge Danticat, illustrated by Leslie Staub 2016 Awardee

African-American history for young readers

Children's books on African-American history, they both said, are increasingly becoming part of mainstream curriculums.

"Just look at the American classrooms today," Andrea explained. "The majority have children of all kinds of races, nationalities and backgrounds. I think teachers and educators are realizing they have to serve these kids. These are the thought leaders, the teachers, the librarians, the illustrators, the writers and the decision makers of tomorrow."

Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney 2011 Awardee

Sojourner Truth's Step-Stomp Stride, by Andrea Davis Pinkney & Brian Pinkney 2010 Awardee

Top 10 Diverse Nonfiction for Older and Middle Readers

"Danza! Amalia Hernandez and Ballet Folklorico de Mexico. By Duncan Tonatiuh. Illus. by the author. 2017. Abrams, (9781419725326). Gr. 2–4. The life and work of dancer and choreographer Amalia Hernandez...

Separate is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez and her family's fight for desegregation, written and illustrated by Duncan Tonatiuh 2015 Awardee

Black Power: 17 Children's Books on Black Activists, Innovators, and...

Schomburg, The Man Who Built a Library by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Eric Velasquez. Where is our historian to give us our side? Arturo asked.

The Legendary Miss Lena Horne by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon: Celebrate the life of Lena Horne, the pioneering African American actress and civil rights activist.

Radiant Child, The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat by Javaka Steptoe: Jean-Michel Basquiat and his unique, collage-style paintings rocketed to fame in the 1980s as a cultural phenomenon unlike anything the art world had ever seen.

The Book Itch: Freedom, Truth & Harlem's Greatest Bookstore by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie: In the 1930s, Lewis's dad, Lewis Michaux Sr., started a bookstore in Harlem and named it the National Memorial African Bookstore.

Gordon Parks: How the Photographer Captured Black and White America by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Jamey Christoph: His white teacher tells her all-Black class, You'll all wind up porters and waiters. What did she know? Gordon Parks is most famous for being the first Black director in Hollywood.

Frederick Douglass, The Lion Who Wrote History by Walter Dean Myers, illustrated by Floyd Cooper: Frederick Douglass was a self-educated slave in the South who grew up to become an icon.

Sugar Hill, Harlem's Historic Neighborhood by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie: Take a walk through Harlem's Sugar Hill and meet all the amazing people who made this neighborhood legendary. Includes brief biographies of jazz greats Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Sonny Rollins, and Miles Davis; artists Aaron Douglas and Faith Ringgold; entertainers Lena Horne and the Nicholas Brothers; writer Zora Neale Hurston; civil rights leader W. E. B. DuBois and lawyer Thurgood Marshall.

Coretta Scott by Ntozake Shange, illustrated by Kadir Nelson: Walking many miles to school in the dusty road, young Coretta Scott knew the unfairness of life in the segregated south.

Birmingham, 1963 by Carole Boston Weatherford 2008 Awardee

New Shoes by Susan Lynn Meyer, illustrated by Eric Velasquez 2016 Awardee

Hot Day on Abbott Avenue by Karen English, with collage art of Javaka Steptoe 2005 Awardee

Now Is Your Time! The African-American Struggle for Freedom by Walter Dean Myers 1992 Awardee

Patrol: An American Soldier in Vietnam by Walter Dean Myers 2003 Awardee

Ruth and the Green Book by Calvin Alexander Ramsey with Gwen Strauss and illustrated by Floyd Cooper 2011 Awardee

Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans written and illustrated by Kadir Nelson 2012 Awardee

The Village That Vanished written by Ann Grifalconi and illustrated by Kadir Nelson 2003 Awardee

The Book Itch: Freedom, Truth & Harlem's Greatest Bookstore by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie 2016 Awardee

Books help build strong girls

"I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsberg Makes Her Mark" by Debbie Levy. (Ages 4-8) This biographical picture book about the notorious Supreme Court justice, tells her story through her famous dissents, or disagreements.

"The Firefly Letters: A Suffragette's Journey to Cuba" by Margarita Engle. The award-winning poet paints a portrait of early women's rights pioneer Fredrika Bremer and the journey that transformed her life.

I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark, written by Debbie Levy, illustrated by Elizabeth Baddeley, 2017 Awardee

Silver People: Voices from the Panama Canal by Margarita Engle 2015 Awardee

The Surrender Tree: Poems of Cuba's Struggle for Freedom by Margarita Engle 2009 Awardee

9 Children's Books to Raise Awareness of Civil Rights

The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, A Young Civil Rights Activist by Cynthia Levinson

We Shall Overcome: The Story of a Song by Debbie Levy

Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport

Through My Eyes by Ruby Bridges

Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson

...

We've Got a Job: The 1963 Birmingham Children's March by Cynthia Levinson 2013 Awardee

Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. written by Doreen Rappaport with artwork by Bryan Collier 2002 Awardee

Trouble at the Mines by Doreen Rappaport 1988 Awardee

Through My Eyes by Ruby Bridges 2000 Awardee

Each Kindness written by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by E.B. Lewis 2013 Awardee

From the Notebooks of Melanin Sun by Jacqueline Woodson 1996 Awardee

I Hadn't Meant to Tell You This by Jacqueline Woodson 1995 Awardee

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Jacqueline Woodson, newly named 2018 Wilder Winner, Calls for the End of the Label "Struggling Reader" #JACBA Newsletter 16Feb2018

Stop Using the Label 'Struggling Reader,' Author Jacqueline Woodson Advises

Woodson: Any kind of qualifier can be harmful because who we are is not static. Our abilities are constantly changing. What does it mean to be a struggling reader? I know if I was raised in this day and age, I would have been labeled a struggling reader. But what I know now is I was actually reading like a writer. I was reading slowly and deliberately and deconstructing language, not in the sense of looking up words in the dictionary, but understanding from context. I was constantly being compared to my sister who excelled, and it made me feel insecure. What gets translated is 'you are not as good,' and that gets translated into our whole bodies. That's where the danger lies.

Each Kindness written by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by E.B. Lewis 2013 Awardee

From the Notebooks of Melanin Sun by Jacqueline Woodson 1996 Awardee

I Hadn't Meant to Tell You This by Jacqueline Woodson 1995 Awardee

ALA Awards: Jacqueline Woodson wins 2018 Wilder Award

Jacqueline Woodson is the winner of the 2018 Laura Ingalls Wilder Award honoring an author or illustrator, published in the United States, whose books have made a substantial and lasting contribution to literature for children. Her numerous works include "Brown Girl Dreaming" and "After Tupac & D Foster."

"From picture books through novels for young teens to her exquisite memoir in poetry, Jacqueline Woodson has established herself as an eloquent voice in contemporary children's literature," said Wilder Award Committee Chair Rita Auerbach.

If children's literature today addresses themes of racism, sexuality, and class; if previously invisible characters have come to the fore; if different voices are now heard; if more children see themselves and others in books, look to Jacqueline Woodson as a prime-mover. For over 25 years, in elegant poetry and prose, she has courageously explored issues once ignored and nurtured her readers' self-esteem and empathy.

ALA Awards: Larry Dane Brimner wins 2018 Sibert Medal

Larry Dane Brimner, author of "Twelve Days in May: Freedom Ride 1961," was named the winner of the 2018 Robert F. Sibert Medal for the most distinguished informational book for children published in 2017.

"Twelve Days in May: Freedom Ride 1961" is published by Calkins Creek, an imprint of Highlights. In 1961 on the seventh anniversary of the Brown vs. Board of Education ruling, 13 freedom riders boarded two buses in Washington D.C. bound for New Orleans. The riders were willing to risk their lives to challenge illegal Jim Crow practices on interstate buses and in bus terminals.

"Spare text, bold graphics and arresting photos combine to take young readers on a 12-day journey through the Jim Crow American south of 1961," said Sibert Medal Committee Chair Tali Balas.

We Are One: The Story of Bayard Rustin by Larry Dane Brimner 2008 Awardee

Birmingham Sunday by Larry Dane Brimner 2011 Awardee

ALA Awards: Eloise Greenfield is the 2018 recipient of the Coretta Scott King-Virginia Hamilton Award for Lifetime Achievement

Early in life, [Greenfield] discovered a love of reading and writing and realized there were few books that showed the fullness of African American life. She published her first book in 1972 and went on to write and publish more than 40 books. From "Honey, I Love" to "The Great Migration," this multiple award-winning author has captivated audiences through the years.

Paul Robeson by Eloise Greenfield 1976 Awardee

Pierre TechnoKids to compete in World Championships

The Pierre Techno Kids, who compete in the FIRST LEGO League, will see competition at the FIRST Tech Challenge World Championships in Detroit on April 25-28. The teams create LEGO Mindstorms robots to help them complete these tasks. Teams compete in four areas, including a robot game that sees the robot complete a series of tasks in two and a half minutes without outside assistance. The other three area include core values robot design, and project.

The real world problem that teams were given this year was hydrodynamics, or in other words, the finding, transporting and use of water. According to Techno Kids coach Carolyn Ryckman, the team was inspired by the book "The Long Walk to Water" by Linda Sue Park, in which a girl in Sudan spends eight hours a day carrying water for her family. The solution that the Techno Kids developed was using drones to carry water to people in need.

Newbery Medal-winner Linda Sue Park to speak at Bridgewater College

Children's and young adult literature author Linda Sue Park, winner of the 2002 Newbery Medal for her book, A Single Shard, will present a public lecture at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 21, in the Carter Center for Worship and Music at Bridgewater College.

She has written numerous picture books and novels for children and young adults, including the Publishers Weekly Best Books of the Year, When My Name Was Keoko, and Project Mulberry, which won the Chicago Tribune Young Adult Fiction Prize. Her most-recent titles are A Long Walk to Water (a novel from Clarion Books) that received the Jane Addams Children's Book Award; and more.

A Long Walk to Water: Based on a True Story by Linda Sue Park 2011 Awardee

When My Name Was Keoko by Linda Sue Park 2003 Awardee

LI exhibitions shine light on black experience, artistry

Hofstra University is showcasing the work of artist Romare Bearden in a series titled 'Odysseus Suite.' Patchogue Arts Council is exhibiting the works of more than a dozen African-American artists.

The works are varied and include a detailed quilt by artist Faith Ringgold titled, "Tar Beach," which depicts a black family on the roof of their Brooklyn apartment on a summer night.

Aunt Harriet's Underground Railroad in the Sky by Faith Ringgold 1993 Awardee

Civil rights icon Ruby Bridges inspires thousands with speech on values

Ruby Bridges, the "youngest foot soldier" of the Civil Rights movement, delivered the Presidential Colloquium to a crowd of over 2,000 people at Smith College on Friday, Feb. 2.

Dana Warren, a fourth grader from Westhampton Elementary School, was responsible for Bridges speaking at the college. After reading Bridges' autobiography "Through My Eyes," in the second grade, Warren was immediately inspired by Bridges' story and what it represented.

Hoping that others would be able to hear Bridges' message, Warren wrote to Smith College President Kathleen McCartney asking her to "help achieve her dream."

After listening to the speech she helped organize, Warren said "it was "amazing" to meet Ruby Bridges, and hear her story "literally through her eyes."

Through My Eyes by Ruby Bridges 2000 Awardee

Start the year of the dog off with young adult social justice books

Lion Island by Margarita Engle

Through a series of poems, Engle tells the story of Antonio Chuffat, an Afro-Cuban whose youth was shaped by the struggle for independence and freedom of expression, and specifically against forced labor.

Margarita's verse novel elegantly sketches the young protagonists' personalities, fears and dreams. Antonio is entrusted to carry dangerous messages; indeed, his father hides runaways among his cuadrillas (work gangs). Yet his friend, Wing, runs away to take up guns with the Resistance. Fan had to run away from home to take her singing role and her father takes a local woman as a wife. The young people ponder their cultural identities, especially when lacking opportunities to further their Chinese or other language studies.

Margarita's compelling story inspires further research, and she ends by including sources for young people and adults. To place the experiences of nineteenth century Chinese diaspora in this broader context complicates yet also makes Asian American identity more whole.

Silver People: Voices from the Panama Canal by Margarita Engle 2015 Awardee

The Surrender Tree: Poems of Cuba's Struggle for Freedom by Margarita Engle 2009 Awardee

'Love' and other best children's and YA books to read this month

Go ahead and judge Between the Lines (Simon & Schuster, ages 4 to 8) by its wonderful cover. Rightfully front and center is the picture book's subject - football player turned artist Ernie Barnes - handsomely wrought by illustrator Bryan Collier. Barnes is flanked by a football scene on one side and by Collier's version of "Sugar Shack," Barnes's most famous painting, on the other.

Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. written by Doreen Rappaport with artwork by Bryan Collier 2002 Awardee

Dear Match Book: Poems for Young Readers

Stretch the Rules: Once you've played with some words you'll want to master some forms.

And, for a more immediate though no less complex wordplay, turn to Paul Fleischman's exquisite book of read-aloud verse, "Joyful Noise." The insect-themed compositions unfold in rich counterpoint meant for two readers. After exchanging lines of verse while you are apart, I imagine that it will be poetic to hear your voices together.

Seedfolks by Paul Fleischman 1998 Awardee

A$AP Rocky, Kelvin Harrison Jr., and Director Anthony Mandler on Their Sundance Drama 'Monster'

One of the many films to world premiere at this year's Sundance Film Festival was Anthony Mandler's feature film debut, Monster. Adapted from the best-selling novel of the same name by Walter Dean Myers, the film is about a 17 year old honors student and aspiring filmmaker Steve Harmon (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) who ends up being charged with a crime he says he didn't commit. As we jump back and forth between the trial and the time that led him to jail, the audience is asked to decide what kind of man he is - a young black criminal, assumed guilty and labeled a monster, or an innocent?

Now Is Your Time! The African-American Struggle for Freedom by Walter Dean Myers 1992 Awardee

Patrol: An American Soldier in Vietnam by Walter Dean Myers 2003 Awardee

Unit 4 schools celebrating National African American Parent Involvement Day

Students in Ms. P's class will be studying the work of author/illustrator R. Gregory Christie and creating their own illustrations inspired by his unique style.

The Book Itch: Freedom, Truth & Harlem's Greatest Bookstore by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie 2016 Awardee

Activism Anthologies and Guides for Young Readers

While activism isn't new, the methods and means available to today's citizens certainly are, as well as the platforms afforded to historically underrepresented people. Here we round up a list of recent and forthcoming titles that bring to the forefront progressive issues, individuals who are fighting for equal rights, and strategy guides for politically motivated young readers.

We Rise, We Resist, We Raise Our Voices: Words and Images of Hope Ed. by Cheryl Willis Hudson and Wade Hudson Fifty influential children's book creators, including Jason Reynolds, Jacqueline Woodson, and Kwame Alexander, offer their own responses to the following prompt: "In this divisive world, what shall we tell our children?" via poems, letters, essays, and art.

Shaking Things Up: 14 Women Who Changed the World Ed. by Susan Hood (Jan. 3, HarperCollins). This picture book tells the stories of influential women through history, from Malala Yousafzai to Pura Belpré, and features stories and illustrations by all-female contributors, including Selina Alko, Sophie Blackall, LeUyen Pham, Melissa Sweet, and many more.

Brave Girl: Clara and the Shirtwaist Makers' Strike of 1909, written by Michelle Markel and illustrated by Melissa Sweet 2014 Awardee

Black History Month: Acclaimed picture book author to talk about segregation, social justice, writing

To mark Black History Month, acclaimed picture book author Carole Boston Weatherford will participate in a couple of free and family-friendly events in the Triangle.

Weatherford, an English professor at Fayetteville State University, has won numerous awards for her picture books, including "Freedom in Congo Square," which was a Caldecott Honor Book last year, and is a New York Times best-selling author. Other books include "Voice of Freedom: Fannie Lou Hamer, Spirit of the Civil Rights Movement," "Schomburg: The Man Who Built a Library," "In Your Hands" and "The Legendary Miss Lena Horne."

"Segregation, Social Justice and Civil Rights:" how our history and cultural evolution is shaped by slavery, segregation and social justice.

"Poetry and All That Jazz:" Celebrate the poetry of music and musicians, from North Carolina-born jazz saxophonist John Coltrane to legendary entertainer and activist Lena Horne.

Birmingham, 1963 by Carole Boston Weatherford 2008 Awardee

How you can celebrate Black History Month...

Every year, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History selects a theme for Black History Month. This year, the theme, African Americans in Times of War, is meant to commemorate the end of World War I.

GIVE A CHILD A GIFT OF A BLACK HISTORY BOOK. One of my favorites, Preaching to the Chickens: The Story of Young John Lewis, by Jabari Asim, celebrates a contemporary hero, Congressman John Lewis.

Another, Minty: The Story of a Young Harriet Tubman by Alan Schroeder, tells the story of the Maryland icon who helped dozens of enslaved people escape through the Underground Railroad (legend says it is hundreds, but at Harriet Tubman Museum (operated by the National Park Service in Church Creek, Maryland) researchers say some of the estimates are too high.

The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist by Cynthia Levinson will motivate young people to activism.

Sit In: How Four Friends Stood Up By Sitting Down by Andrea Davis Pinkney and Brian Pinkney will also motivate young people to take on activist roles.

Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney 2011 Awardee

Sojourner Truth's Step-Stomp Stride, by Andrea Davis Pinkney & Brian Pinkney 2010 Awardee

We've Got a Job: The 1963 Birmingham Children's March by Cynthia Levinson 2013 Awardee

We Shall Overcome: The Story of a Song written by Debbie Levy, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton 2014 Awardee

Abilene children's center making history with 'Our Voice' exhibition

An exhibit three years in the making opens Thursday at the National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature, 102 Cedar St.

"Our Voice: Celebrating the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Awards" will run through at least May 19, according to Sujata Shahane, director of education and exhibitions programming at the NCCIL.

The Coretta Scott King Book Awards have been given annually since 1969 to African-American authors and illustrators of books for children and young adults for demonstrating African-American culture and values.

Of the 108 illustrated books that have been honored for their illustrations, the exhibit has art, either original or official reproductions, from 100 of them. Of the 38 illustrators who have been honored with the award, the exhibit has work from 33 of them.

"I Too Am American," by Bryan Collier, is part of the "Our Voice" exhibition

The art runs the gamut of oil-based and water-based painted works, computer-generated works, art that is on ceramic tiles and even an illustrated quilt from Faith Ringgold. One of the exhibit's prized pieces is work from South African photographer Peter Magubane, Nelson Mandela's personal photographer.

Many of the exhibits are interactive. Patrons can scan a barcode on works and hear the artists talk about their works.

In addition to the exhibit, there will be presentations by artists Javanka Steptoe and Jerry Pinkney on March 20 and April 5, respectively. Claudette McLinn, chairman of the Coretta Scott King Book Awards Committee for 2017-2019, will be speaking at the NCCIL on March 5.

Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. written by Doreen Rappaport with artwork by Bryan Collier 2002 Awardee

Aunt Harriet's Underground Railroad in the Sky by Faith Ringgold 1993 Awardee

Hot Day on Abbott Avenue by Karen English, with collage art of Javaka Steptoe 2005 Awardee

Why Christopher Paul Curtis writes best from a place of fear

Curtis: I find the writing goes best for me if I try to replicate as much as possible all of the circumstances of my first book, The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963. I was writing from a point of fear back in 1994 and that seems to be the place I find my best work. I was afraid I'd taken a year off work to write a book and wasn't going to be able to do it, I feared the loss of income for a year, I feared how it would feel to be unsuccessful at having the chance to try to "follow my dream" and finding out a nightmare was at the end of the journey.

Elijah of Buxton by Christopher Paul Curtis 2008 Awardee

The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis 1996 Awardee

Children's production 'Roll of Thunder' doesn't shy away from America's history of racism

Mildred D. Taylor's Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry was published in 1976, a novel for young adults during an era when educators were embracing the idea that children's books could and should tackle life's serious realities. Books like Roll of Thunder - and The Outsiders, and Bridge to Terabithia - could help kids understand, and grow.

It's a complex story of people who are striving to do right in an impossible situation, and a new SteppingStone Theatre production directed by Kory LaQuess Pullam ensures that every member of the audience appreciates the stakes. As the play opens, opposing crowds of black and white actors stalk forward to confront each other, chanting, "This is my world! My world! My world!"

The Well by Mildred D. Taylor 1996 Awardee

Let the Circle Be Unbroken by Mildred D. Taylor 1982 Awardee

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor 1977 Awardee

Song of the Trees by Mildred D. Taylor 1976 Awardee

McNay showcases African American art

The exhibits include "Something to Say: The McNay Presents 100 years of African American Art" and "30 Americans: Rubell Family Collection" and will continue until May 6. "Something to Say" is the first major survey of modern and contemporary African American art to be presented at the McNay. The exhibition juxtaposes works from the pioneering collection of Harmon and Harriet Kelley with loans from the collections of Guillermo Nicolas and Jim Foster, John and Freda Facey and the McNay.

The concept is to provide visitors with the opportunity to reflect on a range of African American experiences and examine how artists have expressed personal, political and racial identity over 100 years.

Also included in the exhibit is Benny Andrews' "Sexism," the seventh in the McNay's series of AT&T Lobby instillations. Between 1970 and 1975, Benny Andrews created six monumental paintings as part of his Bicentennial series, in response to the United States Bicentennial plans in 1976.

McNay hosts the fourth work in the series, "Sexism," 1973, explores oppression of women. The works are classified as provocative and complex in its contemplation of power among genders.

Delivering Justice: W. W. Law and the Fight for Civil Rights, written by Jim Haskins, illustrated by Benny Andrews 2006 Awardee

Read all about it: Black History Month books for kids

"Claudette Colvin: Twice Toward Justice" by Phillip Hoose (Farrar, Strauss and Giroux 2009) is an excellent choice for teens. Hoose tells the story of Colvin, who as a teenager refused to give up her seat for a white passenger on a city bus in Montgomery, Alabama, and was arrested. This was nine months before Rosa Parks did the same thing.

While Parks was celebrated for her disobedience, Colvin was not. Colvin chose to challenge the segregation law in court, but was found guilty, leaving her with a criminal record. She became one of the plaintiffs in the Browder vs. Gayle lawsuit that eventually desegregated Montgomery's buses.

The message of this book isn't to detract from Rosa Parks' legacy, but to recognize another brave woman who fought for justice and equality. Hoose's writing is based on several personal interviews with Colvin, and included within the book are black-and-white photos from the time period and copies of documents and newspaper articles. "Claudette Colvin: Twice Toward Justice" was the winner of the 2009 National Book Award.

Hey, Little Ant by Phillip and Hannah Hoose 1999 Awardee

Claudette Colvin by Phillip Hoose 2010 Awardee

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Black History Celebrated Through Biographies and Much More #JACBA Newsletter 9Feb2018

Children's Books About Black History, Heavy on Biographies

Among that genre's newest arrivals are names familiar to adults, as in THE UNITED STATES V. JACKIE ROBINSON (HarperCollins/Balzer + Bray, ages 4 to 8), written by Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen. This picture book is more interested in young Robinson's less-known act of resistance during his Army days than in his later, trailblazing career as a baseball player. It's nice to have an athlete celebrated for personal integrity over physical prowess, and R. Gregory Christie's pictures bolster this, evoking a Robinson who is strong and sure, but also smiling, warm, and ultimately, triumphant.

Sandra Neil Wallace's BETWEEN THE LINES: How Ernie Barnes Went From the Football Field to the Art Gallery (Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman, ages 4 to 8), illustrated by Bryan Collier, is a beautiful testament to a quintessentially American life. Wallace and Collier celebrate both Barnes's success on the gridiron and his subsequent reinvention as an artist. As in "The United States v. Jackie Robinson," athleticism is a secondary concern; early on, we see the young Barnes in a museum, wondering where the black painters are, and the story ends with contemporary young museumgoers being shown Barnes's art. This choice makes the story so satisfying, and just what you want at bedtime.

MARTIN RISING: Requiem for a King (Scholastic, ages 9 to 12) is a collaboration by two of children's literature's most well-known names, Andrea Davis Pinkney and Brian Pinkney (who happen to be married). It's a work of verse, with some prose end matter to help elucidate the poems, and it will reward a reader sophisticated enough to grapple with language and metaphor. Andrea Davis Pinkney frames her poem cycle about the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s last months with the figure of Henny Penny, the bird who either worried or prophesied, and she makes King's death feel as significant as the falling of the sky above. It is, of course, a terrible and sad story, but one in which Brian Pinkney's illustrations manage to find beauty.

The Book Itch: Freedom, Truth & Harlem's Greatest Bookstore by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie 2016 Awardee

Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. written by Doreen Rappaport with artwork by Bryan Collier 2002 Awardee

Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney 2011 Awardee

Sojourner Truth's Step-Stomp Stride, by Andrea Davis Pinkney & Brian Pinkney 2010 Awardee

Coretta Scott King Left Behind An Unshakeable Legacy That Every American Should Celebrate by Andrea Davis Pinkey

On today's anniversary of Coretta Scott King's passing, bestselling author Andrea Davis Pinkney pays tribute to the wife of Martin Luther King, Jr., known as the "First Lady of the Civil Rights Movement." Coretta's role as a social justice influencer is chronicled in Pinkney's new book, Martin Rising.

Allen County Public Library's Pontiac branch opens Black History Month events by remembering the Greensboro Four sit-in

At the Pontiac branch library, 2215 S. Hanna St., visitors could sit from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at stools set up along a bookcase to simulate sitting at the Woolworth's lunch counter. While seated, they could watch a brief documentary on the Greensboro sit-in and and learn more about the event.

An information board also contained historical information and photos about the Greensboro Four and their sit-in.

The event was organized by Pontiac branch Assistant Manager Benita Browning, who said she was inspired to do it after reading a children's book about the event, "Sit-in: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down," by Andrea Davis Pinkney.

Black History Month events for 2018

Feb. 24 Free Library of Philadelphia, Philadelphia City Institute Branch

- Based on the book by Christopher Paul Curtis, "The Watsons Go to Birmingham" is the film adaptation of the story of an African-American family's road trip from Flint, Michigan to Birmingham, Alabama in 1963 - and the tragic events that take place. For children ages 12 and under and their families.

- "The Art of Jean-Michel Basquiat: Share Your Creativity" invites visitors to enjoy a reading of "Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat" by Javaka Steptoe and "Life Doesn't Frighten" Me by Maya Angelou, illustrated by Jean-Michel Basquiat. Inspired participants can add their creations to the Young Artists' Wall. For ages 12 and under. Feb. 28.

Elijah of Buxton by Christopher Paul Curtis 2008 Awardee

The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis 1996 Awardee

Hot Day on Abbott Avenue by Karen English, with collage art of Javaka Steptoe 2005 Awardee

KMS kicks off Black History Month

Black History Month was off to an inspiring start Wednesday at Kennett Middle School as Library Media Specialist Kim Johnson read the heroic story of Henry "Box" Brown to students during an afternoon assembly.

The highlight of the assembly was Johnson's reading of the acclaimed children's picture book "Henry's Freedom Box" written by Ellen Levine and illustrated by Kadir Nelson.

Johnson actually had a box built to the same dimensions as the one traveled in by Brown next to her during the entire reading and at the conclusion KMS student Jamarkas Marsh opened the lid and exited the box.

He had been inside the whole time to illustrate the journey of Henry "Box" Brown and the discomfort he experienced.

The event made quite an impact on the students and they were able to step inside the box as well, if they wished to identify with the amazing heroic journey of Brown.

Darkness over Denmark: The Danish Resistance and the Rescue of the Jews by Ellen Levine 2001 Awardee

Freedom's Children: Young Civil Rights Activists Tell Their Stories by Ellen Levine 1994 Awardee

Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans written and illustrated by Kadir Nelson 2012 Awardee

The Village That Vanished written by Ann Grifalconi and illustrated by Kadir Nelson 2003 Awardee

Three books that rock Black History

Bad News for Outlaws: The Remarkable Life of Bass Reeves, Deputy U. S. Marshal by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, R. Gregory Christie (Illustrator)

This children's book tells the story of Lone Ranger inspiration Bass Reeves, who was born in slavery and captured 3000 felons in his career-including his own son-in eye-catching color.

The Book Itch: Freedom, Truth & Harlem's Greatest Bookstore by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie 2016 Awardee

'It takes a community to raise a library'

Acclaimed Simcoe author Deborah Ellis, best known for The Breadwinner that has been published in 25 languages and has raised more than $1 million for the Canadian Women for Women in Afghanistan and Street Kids International, was guest speaker at the library opening.

She talked about the importance of libraries in the wake of Nazi book burnings and Afghanistan's war on books.

"Libraries are places that respect people who came before us, and our words could be read by people thousands of years from now."

The Heaven Shop by Deborah Ellis 2005 Awardee

The Breadwinner Trilogy, three books by Deborah Ellis 2004 Awardee

Parvana's Journey by Deborah Ellis 2003 Awardee

Sneak Peak at 'Green Book' Film-in-Progress

The Freedom Center hosts the creator of an upcoming documentary, and shows a segment of it, about the "Green Book" tourist guides that helped African-Americans travel the country and find accommodations during the heyday of segregation

New York-based playwright and author Calvin Alexander Ramsey, together with Becky Wible Searles - an animation professor at Savannah College of Art and Design - are hoping to recognize the historic importance of the Green Book series. They are working on The Green Book Chronicles, an hour-long film combining animation and interviews with people who had connections with Green and/or the travel guides. They are hoping for completion this year, and a 12-minute edit will preview 6:30 p.m. Thursday at downtown's National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (50 E. Freedom Way), with Ramsey present to discuss the project and its history. The event is free; reservations are available through freedomcenter.org.

Belle, the Last Mule at Gee's Bend written by Calvin Alexander Ramsey and Bettye Stroud, illustrated by John Holyfield 2012 Awardee

Ruth and the Green Book by Calvin Alexander Ramsey with Gwen Strauss and illustrated by Floyd Cooper 2011 Awardee

Books in Brief: The Journey of Little Charlie by Christopher Paul Curtis

The Journey of Little Charlie by Christopher Paul Curtis; Scholastic, Ages 9 to 13.

The latest marvelous novel of the African-American experience from acclaimed author Christopher Paul Curtis (winner of Newbery Honors for "The Watsons go to Birmingham - 1963" and the Newbery Medal for "Bud, Not Buddy") takes place just before the Civil War when the Fugitive Slave Act allowed slave catchers to travel anywhere in the country in pursuit of their prey.

Elijah of Buxton by Christopher Paul Curtis 2008 Awardee

The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis 1996 Awardee

Louise Erdrich: Tribal writer, Catholic writer

Louise Erdrich writes from one of those liminal places between identities that authorities tell us aren't supposed to exist.

If Erdrich succeeds in blending and overlapping these influences, it's not because they go nicely together... but because she's truthful about the unique position in which her characters are located, poised between these two experiences. To those who would say you can't be both, her answer is: But there they are, being both.

The Birchbark House by Louise Erdrich 2000 Awardee

'Girl Rising' author shares work to improve lives of girls

Award-winning author and Champlain College faculty member Tanya Lee Stone visits Bristol on Feb.7 to discuss and answer questions about her latest book, "Girl Rising: Changing the World One Girl at a Time," which examines global barriers to girls' education.

For her book, Stone gathered new research to illuminate the facts behind the film, focusing both on the girls captured on camera and many others. She examines barriers to education in depth-early child marriage and childbearing, slavery, sexual trafficking, gender discrimination, and poverty-and shows how removing these barriers means not only a better life for girls, but safer, healthier, and more prosperous communities.

This is Stone's 100th published book, many of which are written for children, middle schoolers and young adults.

Girl Rising, a global campaign for girls' education, was initiated by a team of journalists "to change the way the world values girls and to ensure girls everywhere can be full and equal participants in society." In 2013, Girl Rising created a film which chronicled the stories of nine girls in the developing world, allowing viewers the opportunity to witness how education can break the cycle of poverty and to celebrate these girls' resilience against all odds.

Almost Astronauts: 13 Women Who Dared to Dream by Tanya Lee Stone 2010 Awardee

Noted activist and artist Faith Ringgold to be honored as Chubb Fellow

Ringgold will give the Chubb Fellowship Lecture titled "Anyone Can Fly" [on Thursday, Feb. 15] at 4:30 p.m. in the Robert L. McNeil Jr. Lecture Hall, Yale University Art Gallery, 1111 Chapel St. Seating is limited; doors will open at 3:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. It will be livestreamed on Yale's YouTube channel.

Aunt Harriet's Underground Railroad in the Sky by Faith Ringgold 1993 Awardee

Nonfiction Is the Focus of New Scholastic Imprint

Scholastic has announced the fall launch of Scholastic Focus, an imprint dedicated to middle grade and young adult narrative nonfiction that is both timely and timeless, and encourages readers to draw connections between historical events and contemporary issues. The imprint's publishing philosophy underscores the relevance of values that have long guided humanity; the profound effects of invention, inspiration, and revolution; and the importance of introducing a diversity of perspectives and identities.

Due in September is Deborah Hopkinson's D-Day: The World War II Invasion That Changed History, a middle-grade book that weaves together official documents, personal accounts, and archival photos to chronicle this pivotal invasion of Allied troops into German-occupied Europe.

Steamboat School, written by Deborah Hopkinson, illustrated by Ron Husband, 2017 Awardee

Girl Wonder: A Baseball Story in Nine Innings by Deborah Hopkinson, illustrated by Terry Wideners, 2004 Awardee

Shutting Out the Sky: Life in the Tenements of New York 1880-1924 by Deborah Hopkinson 2004 Awardee

A Band of Angels: A Story Inspired written by the Jubilee Singers by Deborah Hopkinson, illustrated by Raúl Colón, 2000 Awardee

2018 Children's and Teen Choice Book Awards Finalists Announced

The Third to Fourth Grade finalists [include] Frederick Douglass: The Lion Who Wrote History by Walter Dean Myers, illus. by Floyd Cooper (HarperCollins); [and more.]

Ruth and the Green Book by Calvin Alexander Ramsey with Gwen Strauss and illustrated by Floyd Cooper 2011 Awardee

Now Is Your Time! The African-American Struggle for Freedom by Walter Dean Myers 1992 Awardee

Patrol: An American Soldier in Vietnam by Walter Dean Myers 2003 Awardee

10 Inspiring Children's Books for Budding Little Artists

"Henri's Scissors" written and illustrated by Jeanette Winter.

Based on the life of Henri Matisse, the Henri's Scissors picture book tells the story of the great artist's life. From childhood, to his illness, and his journey to creating his colorful paper cutouts, the inspiring book by Jeanette Winter includes famous quotes from the artist, and insights into his creative process.

Nasreen's Secret School: A True Story from Afghanistan by Jeanette Winter 2010 Awardee

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In Washington DC: disrupting the notion of what public education and what black boys can do and be #JACBA Newsletter 2Feb2018

These kids started a book club for minority boys. It's the most popular club in school.

The club dates back to December, when a fifth-grader complained one morning that his lackluster results on a citywide English exam didn't reflect his true reading abilities.

The principal, Mary Ann Stinson, placed a book she had lying around - "Bad Boy: A Memoir," by Walter Dean Myers - in his hands and told him to start reading.

The boys quickly became engrossed in the 2001 book about Myers's childhood in New York's Harlem.

The club's sponsor and the boys meet once or twice a week at 8:15 a.m. - a half-hour before the first bell rings - and use the book to launch into conversations about their own experiences with race, identity and adolescence.

"It's a blessing to be in this predicament, to have kids who are becoming ravenous readers," Redmond said. "We're disrupting the notion of what public education can be and what little black boys can do and be."

Now Is Your Time! The African-American Struggle for Freedom by Walter Dean Myers 1992 Awardee

Patrol: An American Soldier in Vietnam by Walter Dean Myers 2003 Awardee

'Monster' Review: Powerful Crime Drama Finds the Intersection of Race, Justice, and Storytelling [Sundance]

Ever since its publication in 1999, author Walter Dean Myers' award-winning novel Monster has be a favorite among young adults, providing them a glimpse into the world of Steve Harmon, a black teenager whose life is thrown into chaos when he is arrested and put on trial for taking part in a robbery gone wrong, resulting in the death of a Harlem bodega owner. The film adaptation from music video veteran and first-time filmmaker Anthony Madler is an ambitious, complex, and layered look at how the court system in America is virtually designed to keep defendants like Steve from every getting a chance at actual justice.

'Monster' Director Seeks To Explore The Larger Question Of How One Moment Can Define Your Life - Sundance Studio

"To crystalize the lens and look at mass incarceration and criminal justice and the ways our laws were written, as well as this incredible journey of a young artist," said Mandler on his decision to take on the project. "Watching this kid from a great family goes to a great school seek out his take on the world and how that curiosity leads him to a place where he now has to defend his life against what happened, I was attracted to it on all those different levels."

New Kids' and YA Books: Week of January 29, 2018

The Journey of Little Charlie by Christopher Paul Curtis. Scholastic Press, $16.99; ISBN 978-0-545-15666-0. Echoing themes found in Curtis's Newbery Honor-winning Elijah of Buxton, this tense novel set in 1858 provides a very different perspective on the business of catching runaway slaves. The book earned a starred review from PW.

No Truth Without Ruth: The Life of Ruth Bader Ginsburg by Kathleen Krull, illus. by Nancy Zhang. Harper, $17.99; ISBN 978-0-06-256011-7. In this addition to the growing body of Ruth Bader Ginsburg literature for children, Krull offers a detailed account of the Supreme Court justice's intellectual and professional development.

Elijah of Buxton by Christopher Paul Curtis 2008 Awardee

The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis 1996 Awardee

Harvesting Hope: The Story of Cesar Chavez, written by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Yuyi Morales 2004 Awardee

Wilma Unlimited, written by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by David Diaz 1997 Awardee

Native American storytellers to perform at Morris

Morris Central School will present a "family-friendly" presentation by Native American author, musician, and storyteller Joseph Bruchac and his son, Jesse Bruchac, at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 15 in the school auditorium.

The Heart of a Chief by Joseph Bruchac 1999 Awardee

Bonnier Publishing USA's Five Pillars of Positive Children's Books

Bonnier Publishing USA has developed five pillars to guide its children's imprints in publishing books that have a positive impact on kids and teens

During an all-hands planning meeting this past fall, the children's team at Bonnier Publishing USA realized they'd hit a critical point. Their titles were coalescing around five themes, which they dubbed their "five pillars": acceptance, anti-bullying, awareness, diversity, and empowerment. According to Sonali Fry, publisher of the children's book group, "while we had already been publishing books connected to some of these themes," such as Freedom in Congo Square by Carole Boston Weatherford and R. Gregory Christie, which received a 2017 Caldecott Medal and a Coretta Scott King Honor, "we wanted to refocus our lists so that we hit every one of them."

"We feel that now, more than ever, it's important to give kids stories that reflect the world they live in and encourage them to imagine how they could make it better," says Fry. While, she says, the kids' team doesn't limit its acquisitions to books focused on one of the pillars, "there's often a natural connection to at least one. These themes unite the types of books we're passionate about, which helps shape our lists and, in turn, define who we are as a publisher," she says.

The Book Itch: Freedom, Truth & Harlem's Greatest Bookstore by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie 2016 Awardee

Birmingham, 1963 by Carole Boston Weatherford 2008 Awardee

Greenwich Academy quilts its commitment to MLK's message

The colorful quilt squares are inked with words like unity, resilience, trust, hope and harmony. Crafted by the Greenwich Academy student body and staff, they are a patchwork representation of Martin Luther King Jr.'s message of equality and inclusion.

"In order to memorialize the 50th anniversary of Martin Luther King's assassination, each advisory was asked to create a square for the quilt," said senior Elisha Osemobor. "This quilt represents our dedication as a school to follow the principles and behaviors of the beloved community in our everyday lives."

Greenwich Academy's quilt was inspired by the work of African-American artist Faith Ringgold who combined images and text in "story quilts," among other projects. An outspoken civil rights supporter, she demonstrated against the exclusion of black and female artists by New York's Whitney Museum of American Art and the Museum of Modern Art from 1968 to 1970. Her work was later shown at the Whitney, the Museum of Modern Art and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York.

Aunt Harriet's Underground Railroad in the Sky by Faith Ringgold 1993 Awardee

Children, Culture, Community: Muskegon Museum of Art celebrates diversity with a variety of events this winter

This year, the museum's annual children's book illustrator exhibition highlights a Hispanic artist and Native American author. Thunder Boy, Jr.: Illustrations by Yuyi Morales runs through May 20 and includes illustrations and sketches by Yuyi Morales for Sherman Alexie's children's book.

Morales herself has an inspiring story. Although she loved drawing as a child, she wasn't a trained artist and studied physical education in Mexico, later working as a swim coach. She moved to America in 1994 with her husband and young son and felt isolated and alone without a job or friend, barely knowing English.

That all changed when she discovered children's picture books in a San Francisco area public library, learning English by also reading the books to her son. Inspired by the vivid colors and visual stories, Morales took up painting and enrolled in a class on writing for children.

Morales since has written several original stories, including Viva Frida, which received the 2015 Pura Belpre Medal for illustration, as well as the 2015 Caldecott Award Honor.

Harvesting Hope: The Story of Cesar Chavez, written by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Yuyi Morales 2004 Awardee

This Is Just To Say: Naomi Shibab Nye

In this edition of This Is Just To Say, poet and novelist Carrie Fountain talks with Palestinian-American poet Naomi Shihab Nye.

Nye reads her poem "Burning the Old Year," and they continue to explore the idea of what we take with us and what we leave behind as we enter 2018 through W.S. Merwin's To the Mistakes.

Habibi by Naomi Shihab Nye 1998 Awardee

Sitti's Secrets by Naomi Shihab Nye, illustrated by Nancy Carpenter 1995 Awardee

Governor's reply to student's letter is lost opportunity

Hope Osgood, a 16-year-old High School student, wrote to Maine Gov. Paul LePage to express her concern about the negative impact the pending repeal of internet "net neutrality" rules could have on her schoolwork. His response: "Hope. Pick up a book and read!"

The episode calls to mind a famous letter exchange between the Soviet leader Yuri Andropov and a Maine school child, Samantha Smith. Andropov, who became General Secretary of the Communist Party (in effect, leader of the Soviet Union) on Nov. 10, 1982, was hardly a gentle or sentimental man.

In November 1982, Samantha, then a 10-year-old elementary school student living in Manchester, Maine, wrote a famous letter to Andropov in which she expressed, with child-like sincerity and naiveté, her concern about the risk of nuclear war between the U.S. and U.S.S.R. during the Reagan era.

Samantha's visit inspired other exchanges of child goodwill ambassadors and may even have signaled the start of a thaw in U.S.-Soviet relations.

It is ironic that the remarkable achievements of Samantha's short life were inspired by the words of a political leader who had neither experience in nor sympathy for democracy. If Andropov could react appropriately to Samantha Smith, why couldn't a democratically elected governor do at least as well with Hope Osgood?

Journey to the Soviet Union by Samantha Smith 1986 Awardee

Pam Muñoz Ryan To Receive The 2018 Anne V. Zarrow Award For Young Readers' Literature

New York Times best-selling author Pam Muñoz Ryan is the winner of the Tulsa Library Trust's 2018 Anne V. Zarrow Award for Young Readers' Literature.

Ryan is being recognized for writing more than 40 books to inspire imaginations, dreams and pride in all ages. From picture books, early readers and young adult novels, her writing encourages cultural awareness and the importance of believing in yourself.

Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan 2001 Awardee

Orion Children's to publish Ghost Boys

American author Jewell Parker Rhodes has signed her first UK publishing deal with Orion Children's Books, part of the Hachette Children's Group (HCG).

Ghost Boys is about a black boy who is killed by a white police officer. After his death, Jerome comes back to his neighbourhood as a ghost, where he starts to notice all the other ghost boys.

Sugar by Jewell Parker Rhodes 2014 Awardee

The Ninth Ward by Jewell Parker Rhodes 2011 Awardee

Metro Theater Company And Jazz St. Louis present BUD NOT BUDDY

Based on the Newbery Medal and Coretta Scott King Award winning book by Christopher Paul Curtis

Written by award-winning playwright Kirsten Greenidge and based on the Newbery Medal and Coretta Scott King Award winning book by Christopher Paul Curtis, with a exhilarating score by five-time Grammy-winning jazz legend Terence Blanchard, "Bud, Not Buddy" follows 10-year-old Bud as he sets off on a journey to find his father who he believes is leading a traveling jazz band.

More Than Movies: Blues and books featured at the Dietrich Theater

This year we are thrilled that acclaimed children's author Susan Campbell Bartoletti, who wrote "The Boy Who Dared," made time in her busy schedule to speak to students at our middle school in two assemblies. She also met with a group of interested student writers for two writing workshops. Any adult would have benefited from her two-hour workshops, which she made so engaging for students that the time sped by.

How fortunate we are that Susan Campbell, publisher of 20 books for children, Newbery Honor Book author, shared her stories and writing secrets with 300 Tunkhannock middle school students. Thank you Rotary Club of Tunkhannock, Walmart, and Claverack for making this extraordinary experience possible.

Writer inspires students in craft

Susan Campbell Bartoletti offers one important piece of advice to those interested in writing.

Read.

"Only a reader can become a writer," Bartoletti explained to 30 sixth and eighth grade students at Tunkhannock Area Middle School on Thursday.

Bartoletti is the featured writer this year at the 'Reader Meets Writer' program, a joint effort between the school district and the Dietrich Theater.

Kids on Strike! by Susan Campbell Bartoletti 2000 Awardee

Growing Up In Coal County by Susan Campbell Bartoletti 1997 Awardee

Film based on Simcoe author's book gets Oscar nod

The Breadwinner, an animated movie based on the book by Simcoe author Deborah Ellis, has been nominated for an Academy Award.

Nominations for the 90th annual Oscars were announced Tuesday morning, with The Breadwinner getting the nod in the animated feature category.

"You always hope for the good things and today it happened," Ellis said in a phone interview.

Ellis, who was appointed to the Order of Canada in 2016, won't travel to Los Angeles for the March 4 event. In February of last year, Ellis announced publicly she would not travel south of the 49th after the U.S. government attempted to implement sanctions to restrict immigrants from predominantly Muslim nations.

Oscar-nominated film 'The Breadwinner' depicts daily danger in Afghanistan

It's a delicate balancing act, bringing something like Canadian author Deborah Ellis's novel - published in 2000 - to the big screen.

While aimed at children, the story directly confronts the misogyny and chauvinism of contemporary Afghanistan.

It may sound a little much for a children's story but then perhaps that's underestimating the book's youthful audience. Saara Chaudry, the 13 year-old Canadian actress who voices Parvana, says it was "shocking" when she first read Ellis's book and its two follow-ups. "I was ignorant," she says. "Living in a First World country, I didn't know. Having read the books and seen these different stories, it opened my eyes to a whole new world that I never really knew."

Impressively, the team behind the film produced an online study guide, at www.thebreadwinner.com to complement the film. "If young people watch a film like The Breadwinner, they can start to explore answers," says Twomey. "For me, the whole thing is about education. It's not about easy answers ... anything we can do to have young adults ask questions and understand the complexity of places like Afghanistan [is a good thing]."

Oscars 2018: Nearly every animated feature nominee spotlights women. Finally.

IN THE entire first decade of the Oscars' animated feature category, which launched in 2001, only one woman - "Persepolis" creator Marjane Satrapi - received a nomination.

It's a measure of just how much has changed that on Tuesday, women received nods for four of the five animated feature nominees.

"We're delighted that Nora is in the limelight this year, of course," "Breadwinner" producer Tomm Moore, a two-time Oscars nominee, tells The Washington Post's Comic Riffs on Tuesday morning, "as well as her talented screenwriter Anita Doron and indeed, the book's author, Deborah Ellis, and our executive producer Angelina Jolie.

The Heaven Shop by Deborah Ellis 2005 Awardee

The Breadwinner Trilogy, three books by Deborah Ellis 2004 Awardee

Parvana's Journey by Deborah Ellis 2003 Awardee

LitWorld And Scholastic Announce World Read Aloud Day 2018 And A Special Collaboration With Harry Potter Book Night

On February 1, children, families, and educators around the globe will celebrate World Read Aloud Day with classroom and community events, an author video series, a U.S. educator sweepstakes, and a Facebook Live

In an ongoing effort to encourage reading aloud to kids of all ages, the global literacy non-profit LitWorld and title sponsor Scholastic, the global children's publishing, education, and media company, today announced February 1, 2018 as this year's World Read Aloud Day, an advocacy day that calls attention to the importance of reading aloud and sharing stories.

Scholastic has created a video series harnessing LitWorld's 7 Strengths, as featured in Pam Allyn and Ernest Morrell's professional book Every Child a Super Reader. Each week leading up to World Read Aloud Day, we will share one video featuring a Scholastic author and/or literacy expert who will share their favorite read aloud book that highlights one of the 7 Strengths-Belonging, Kindness, Curiosity, Friendship, Confidence, Courage, and Hope.

Authors and literacy experts include: Andrea Davis Pinkney (author and Coretta Scott King Award-winner), Pam Muñoz Ryan (author and Newbery Honor-winner), and more!

Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney 2011 Awardee

Sojourner Truth's Step-Stomp Stride, by Andrea Davis Pinkney & Brian Pinkney 2010 Awardee

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"Because of them: we are," Jacqueline Woodson National Ambassador for Young People's Literature #JACBA Newsletter 26Jan2018

"What's Your Equation?": Jacqueline Woodson Inaugurated as Sixth National Ambassador for Young People's Literature

Through her platform, "READING = HOPE x CHANGE (What's Your Equation?)," Woodson aims "to begin a conversation our country is hungry, but oftentimes afraid, to have."

After expressing gratitude to her editors and publishers, Woodson called on the audience to join her in thanking and remembering writers and activists who influenced and inspired them. "In the African-American tradition, there is the calling of names, where we call our ancestors back into the room; where we acknowledge that because of them, we are." As the room filled with the quiet calling of names, from Virginia Hamilton to Walter Dean Myers, Woodson's final words seemed to echo: "Because of them, we are."

MLK Week 2017 to Focus on Environmental Racism

The World of Children's Literature is sponsoring an event featuring Jacqueline Woodson, an award-winning young adult and children's author and the 2014 National Book Award Winner for her memoir "Brown Girl Dreaming," which also won the NAACP Image Award. Woodson will be speaking in the Gould Auditorium at the J. Willard Marriott Library on Jan. 23.

Each Kindness written by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by E.B. Lewis 2013 Awardee

From the Notebooks of Melanin Sun by Jacqueline Woodson 1996 Awardee

I Hadn't Meant to Tell You This by Jacqueline Woodson 1995 Awardee

Random House Children's Books and Just Us Books Collaborate to Publish Multicultural Middle-Grade Anthology to Inspire Young Activists

"We Rise, We Resist, We Raise Our Voices" will feature original works from such diverse authors and artists as Kwame Alexander, Sharon Draper, Ellen Oh, Andrea Pippins, Jason Reynolds, Rita Williams-Garcia, and Jacqueline Woodson and will publish on September 4, 2018.

In an increasingly polarized world, parents are looking for tools to discuss the difficult political and global challenges that their children will one day inherit. In WE RISE, WE RESIST, WE RAISE OUR VOICES, the industry's foremost children's authors and illustrators share their perspective, encouragement, hope, and inspiration to help parents, educators, and young readers ignite lasting change in their communities.

The collection features a dynamic lineup of contributors: Arnold Adoff, Vanessa Brantley-Newton, Joseph Bruchac, Floyd Cooper, Margarita Engle, Javaka Steptoe, Eric Velasquez, Carole Boston Weatherford, and Jacqueline Woodson, the 2018 National Ambassador for Young People's Literature.

All the Colors of the Race by Arnold Adoff 1983 Awardee

We Shall Overcome: The Story of a Song written by Debbie Levy, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton 2014 Awardee

The Heart of a Chief by Joseph Bruchac 1999 Awardee

Ruth and the Green Book by Calvin Alexander Ramsey with Gwen Strauss and illustrated by Floyd Cooper 2011 Awardee

Silver People: Voices from the Panama Canal by Margarita Engle 2015 Awardee

The Surrender Tree: Poems of Cuba's Struggle for Freedom by Margarita Engle 2009 Awardee

Hot Day on Abbott Avenue by Karen English, with collage art of Javaka Steptoe 2005 Awardee

New Shoes by Susan Lynn Meyer, illustrated by Eric Velasquez 2016 Awardee

We Can Do This! How Kindfulness Can Save the World

In her poem "Kindness," Naomi Shihab Nye makes it clear that before we can really see how important kindness is, we must pay attention to how much sorrow there is. When we see this "then it is only kindness that makes sense anymore."

We can do this. We can save the world with kindfulness. It begins by looking around as well as looking within. And then we can offer what we can as often as we can to those who need it. This is a practice that builds the skills we need more than ever.

Habibi by Naomi Shihab Nye 1998 Awardee

Sitti's Secrets by Naomi Shihab Nye, illustrated by Nancy Carpenter 1995 Awardee

Author Edwidge Danticat On The Immigrant Experience

NPR's Lulu Garcia-Navarro speaks with Haitian-American author Edwidge Danticat about her experience as a Haitian immigrant after President Trump referred to her country using a vulgar term.

Danticat: "So we're a country that's always been somewhat marginalized and stigmatized, but that's always made us stronger, want to try harder. We are certainly not the country that the president is describing. We're a poor country. But we're a country full of pride, proud and strong people who are simply, when they leave, looking for better opportunities elsewhere."

Mama's Nightingale: A Story of Immigration and Separation written by Edwidge Danticat, illustrated by Leslie Staub 2016 Awardee

Why do we celebrate MLK Day?

"Be a King: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Dream and You," by Carole Boston Weatherford.

Featuring a dual narrative of the key moments of Dr. King's life alongside a modern class as the students learn about him, Carole Weatherford's poetic text encapsulates the moments that readers today can reenact in their own lives. See a class of young students as they begin a school project inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and learn to follow his example, as he dealt with adversity and never lost hope that a future of equality and justice would soon be a reality.

As times change, Dr. King's example remains, encouraging a new generation of children to take charge and change the world... to be a King. Preschool -3rd grade reading level.

Birmingham, 1963 by Carole Boston Weatherford 2008 Awardee

Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebrated in street art across the United States

A series of photographs of street art across the United States featuring the legendary civil rights campaigner Martin Luther King Jr. has emerged, as America celebrates the 32nd annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Malcolm X and Martin Luther King fly over the Theresa Hotel, in a mural by Faith Ringgold, 1996, at West Side IRT Station, 125th Street, Harlem, New York.

Aunt Harriet's Underground Railroad in the Sky by Faith Ringgold 1993 Awardee

Authors in the Schools brings smiles with reading

Award-winning author W. Nikola-Lisa visited Esmond Elementary School on Jan. 12 as part of the Authors in the Schools program that the Beverly Area Planning Association is introducing at local elementary schools this month. Nikola-Lisa, who also visited Vanderpoel Humanities Academy, read several of his children's books, as well as gave away signed copies of his "How We Are Smart," which explores psychologist Howard Gardner's theory of multiple intelligence.

Bein' with You This Way written by W. Nikola-Lisa, illustrated by Michael Bryant 1995 Awardee

Green Book's Safe Passages Still Resonate

In 2010, Calvin Alexander Ramsey and Gwen Strauss wrote a children's book, Ruth and the Green Book, about a girl named Ruth whose father uses the Green book on a car trip to see her grandmother. There was even a play produced about the Green Book. At the National Museum of African America History and Culture in Washington, D.C., there is an exhibit about The Negro Motorist Green-Book.

Although there is no longer a need for the Green-Book, the fight for equal civil rights for all continues.

Belle, the Last Mule at Gee's Bend written by Calvin Alexander Ramsey and Bettye Stroud, illustrated by John Holyfield 2012 Awardee

Ruth and the Green Book by Calvin Alexander Ramsey with Gwen Strauss and illustrated by Floyd Cooper 2011 Awardee

4 Steps to Becoming a Culturally Responsive Teacher Leticia Skae is a literacy coach at Martin Luther King, Jr. Magnet High School in Nashville, Tenn.

Here I was, an immigrant from Malawi, Africa, who grew up in the United States as an impoverished English-language learner student, now teaching other students in a manner I knew was not beneficial to them. It was all I could take-I had to do something different, not only for my students but also for myself. Other teachers had been teaching these same books because that was the way it had always been.

The classroom literature needed to better represent my students, to inspire them to connect to the texts. I changed the book list, finding works written by female authors or books that had female or minority protagonists. For the poetry unit, I taught Locomotion by Jacqueline Woodson. Students created their own poetry journals. Many students told me they hated poetry until they read that book. Some found the sequel to Locomotion and read it on their own. Not only did students' negative perceptions about poetry change, but they also read another text, on their own, without my prompting.

I also added other culturally relevant texts that were popular with my students, including The Contender by Robert Lipsyte, The Crossover by Kwame Alexander, Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine, Inside Out and Back Again by Thanhha Lai, and The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates by Wes Moore. These books had diverse protagonists who were openly struggling with issues related to race, poverty, immigration, or behavioral disorders. These are complicated issues that students often face, and they needed to see characters persevering through these same struggles.

Seeing Red by Kathryn Erskine 2014 Awardee

Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai 2012 Awardee

Survivor of childhood slavery speaks to Byram students Simon Deng addresses 7th and 8th graders

Through a grant given by the Byram Township Education Foundation, the school welcomed speaker Simon Deng, a Sudanese refugee and survivor of child slavery.

"One of the goals of the seventh grade Language Arts curriculum is to expose students to a variety of multicultural experiences," Taylor said. "After reading the novel A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park, students will have familiarized themselves with the diverse differences that exist between American and Sudanese cultures. It is important for all students to learn the lessons presented from this core novel, as well as having a first hand source that would be able to explain to the students what was already learned from the novel."

A Long Walk to Water: Based on a True Story by Linda Sue Park 2011 Awardee

When My Name Was Keoko by Linda Sue Park 2003 Awardee

THE FIVE ACTORS WHO WILL BREAK OUT OF SUNDANCE 2018

Kelvin Harrison Jr.: Monster is based on a book by Walter Dean Myers. It's about a 17-year-old filmmaker and honors student who is on trial for a murder he may or may not have been part of. I play Steve Harmon, the 17-year-old filmmaker. Monsters and Men is told in three parts, loosely based on the Eric Garner story, the aftermath and how that affects three different people: a guy on the street who films the incident, a black cop and a baseball phenomenon. That's who I play, this baseball player who is trying to figure out what his role is in society now being a black male in America. Then Assassination is this really fun movie with all these cool kids, kind of like the social media The Crucible. I play Mason, who is just one of the boys.

Now Is Your Time! The African-American Struggle for Freedom by Walter Dean Myers 1992 Awardee

Patrol: An American Soldier in Vietnam by Walter Dean Myers 2003 Awardee

BookExpo Names 2018 Children's Breakfast Authors

ReedPOP has announced the lineup for the 2018 Children's Book & Author Breakfast, which will take place on Friday, June 1, at this year's BookExpo in New York City.

Author Jacqueline Woodson, who was recently inaugurated as the sixth National Ambassador for Young People's Literature, will appear onstage to discuss her forthcoming books: The Dream of America (Penguin/Paulsen) and The Day You Begin (Penguin/Paulsen), illustrated by Rafael Lopez.

Joining Woodson are Caldecott Honor artist and five-time Pura Belpré Award winner Yuyi Morales, author of Dreamers (Holiday House/Porter), and more.

Harvesting Hope: The Story of Cesar Chavez, written by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Yuyi Morales 2004 Awardee

Hamilton honored as 'Great Ohioan'

Local children's author Virginia Hamilton was selected on Thursday, Jan. 18, for the Great Ohioan Award by the Capital Square Review and Advisory Board of the Ohio Statehouse.

Hamilton, who died in 2002, was an award-winning author of children's books, publishing 41 in her lifetime in multiple genres including picture books, folktales, mysteries, science fiction, realistic novels and biography, according to a news release announcing the award.

Anthony Burns: The Defeat and Triumph of a Fugitive Slave by Virginia Hamilton 1989 Awardee

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Naomi Shihab Nye's Poetry Speaks of Caring and Kindness #JACBA Newsletter 19Jan2018

Deep Listening Lessons from the psychology of the spiritual imagination

Poet Nye recounted how her world-renowned poem "Kindness" came to her as a kind of voice that she heard from deep within herself. On her honeymoon, her and her husband's luggage was stolen. As her husband traveled to the next town to get new travel documents, she sat in the town's square watching people as they passed. Suddenly, the poem came to her as if "floating across the square" for her to transcribe.

Replace despair with volunteerism in 2018: Rabbi Robert Nosanchuk (Opinion)

Ms. Nye is a writer and a Palestinian-Arab American. I am a Jew, a Zionist, and a rabbi. We differ sharply in culture, politics and identity. But we share an aspiration to secure wholeness and peace.

Habibi by Naomi Shihab Nye 1998 Awardee

Sitti's Secrets by Naomi Shihab Nye, illustrated by Nancy Carpenter 1995 Awardee

Trump Reopens an Old Wound for Haitians by Edwidge Danticat

President Trump's alleged remarks have taken many of us back to a time when such attitudes were commonplace. They are also particularly disturbing in the context of his larger anti-immigrant program. As Haitian-community advocates are trying to rally support in Congress and elsewhere to find a permanent solution for T.P.S. recipients and their families, we are reminded of a time when all H.I.V.-positive immigrants were banned from entering the United States, and H.I.V.-positive Haitians were detained, in deplorable conditions, at Guantanamo Bay. Trump's alleged statement re-stigmatizes both Haitians and people living with H.I.V./aids by pegging them as undesirables. Will the next travel ban be a medical one?

Mama's Nightingale: A Story of Immigration and Separation written by Edwidge Danticat, illustrated by Leslie Staub 2016 Awardee

SCLSNJ celebrates Black History Month in February

The Art of E.B. Lewis Display (all ages): Feb. 1-28, Watchung branch

Books for children: "How Jelly Roll Morton Invented Jazz" by Jonah Winter and Keith Mallet "Jimi: Sounds Like a Rainbow: A Story of the Young Jimi Hendrix" by Gary Golio and Javaka Steptoe "The Legendary Miss Lena Horne" by Carole Boston Weatherford and Elizabeth Zunon "Rhythm Ride: A Road Trip Through the Motown Sound" by Andrea Davis Pinkney

First Step: How One Girl Put Segregation on Trial, written by Susan E. Goodman, illustrated by E. B. Lewis, 2017 Awardee

Each Kindness written by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by E.B. Lewis 2013 Awardee

Night Boat to Freedom, written by Margot Theis Raven with pictures by E. B. Lewis 2007 Awardee

Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney 2011 Awardee

Sojourner Truth's Step-Stomp Stride, by Andrea Davis Pinkney & Brian Pinkney 2010 Awardee

Birmingham, 1963 by Carole Boston Weatherford 2008 Awardee

Lillian's Right to Vote: A Celebration of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 by Jonah Winter 2016 Awardee

2017 was a wonderful year for books

"Freedom in Congo Square," a picture book set in New Orleans that's illustrated by R. Gregory Christie and written by Carole Boston Weatherford, took a Caldecott Honor Book award and a Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor Book award.

The Book Itch: Freedom, Truth & Harlem's Greatest Bookstore by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie 2016 Awardee

Conversations: Katherine Paterson, "My Brigadista Year"

Katherine Paterson has written more than thirty books and has received many of the highest honors in children's literature. Her Newbery Medal-winning novel Bridge to Terabithia is one of the most beloved children's novels of all time and was made into a major motion picture. On this edition of Conversations, she joins us to talk about her latest youth novel, My Brigadista Year. The novel was inspired by the experiences of young volunteers in the 1961 Cuban literacy campaign.

The Same Stuff as Stars by Katherine Paterson 2003 Awardee

The Great Gilly Hopkins by Katherine Paterson 1979 Awardee

IN CONVERSATION with Ali Kazmi

Ali Kazmi: "There's another film called the Breadwinner; it's a little bit of shameless self-promotion and not only because I'm in it, I swear. It's an animated feature film which is produced by Angelina Jolie and directed by Nora Twomey, an Oscar-winning film director, based on the bestselling novel by Deborah Ellis. It's basically about a young girl in Afghanistan whose father was a teacher but is now retired; as a girl, she can't work in Afghanistan so she basically dresses up as a little boy to become breadwinner for the house. I play this character called Darya, who is ex-Taliban with a heart of gold; he helps her family to escape from their situation in the war-torn Afghanistan. It's really fitting these days as well because of the whole women's movement and how important it is for education for girls all over; it's quite sad how slowly that's happening, actually. It's nominated for Golden Globe Awards and also has some Oscar buzz."

Coming-of-age tale will inspire children to stand up for human rights, says Angelina Jolie

"I hope this film does speak to young girls around the world and young boys," Jolie said. "It's the first time for them to understand that little girls throughout the world go through this."

How Canadians are planting seeds of hope for girls in Afghanistan

Canadian author Deborah Ellis has also been fascinated by the work they do. Back when the Taliban was denying education to women and girls, she wanted to help. "I'm a lousy fundraiser. So, in 1998 I went to refugee camps in Quetta and Peshawar in Pakistan to gather stories about who they were as human beings. I thought if I tell their story something will happen."

Ellis is delighted that Afghans will see [The Breadwinner], but want the focus to be on the girls. "The girls are making the most of the changes they have, grabbing hold of every opportunity, doing as much and reaching as far as they can in case it is taken away."

The Heaven Shop by Deborah Ellis 2005 Awardee

The Breadwinner Trilogy, three books by Deborah Ellis 2004 Awardee

Parvana's Journey by Deborah Ellis 2003 Awardee

Southern Writers Onstage Goes 'Beyond Black And White' In 6th Year

On Jan. 23, Carmen Agra Deedy will present excerpts from her own work "Growing Up Cuban in Decatur, Georgia."

The Yellow Star: The Legend of King Christian X of Denmark by Carmen Agra Deedy 2001 Awardee

Peifer's Picks

"The Dream Keeper and other Poems" by Langston Hughes Illustrated by Brian Pinkney

This is a small book of 60 plus poems by Langston Hughes which are beautifully illustrated with black and white scratchboard by Brian Pinkney.

Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney 2011 Awardee

Sojourner Truth's Step-Stomp Stride, by Andrea Davis Pinkney & Brian Pinkney 2010 Awardee

Picture books to help young readers learn about Dr. King

Martin Luther King Jr. by Marion Dane Bauer This illustrated book for younger readers tells how great a man Dr. King was. He was able to change the way people thought through his kind and wise words.

Martin's Big Words: The Life of Martin Luther King Jr. by Doreen Rappaport Martin Luther King's life is told with quotes and delightful watercolor illustrations.

Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. written by Doreen Rappaport with artwork by Bryan Collier 2002 Awardee

Trouble at the Mines by Doreen Rappaport 1988 Awardee

Rain of Fire by Marion Dane Bauer 1984 Awardee

The lessons young people can learn from MLK, 50 years after his assassination

"Martin Rising," by Andrea Davis Pinkney; illustrated by Brian Pinkney (Scholastic)

Envisioned for young readers but sure to be appreciated more widely, "Martin Rising: Requiem for a King" (Scholastic, ages 13 and up) depicts King as a source of warmth and brightness on its radiant front cover. Author Andrea Davis Pinkney and her husband, illustrator Brian Pinkney, sustain and develop this idea throughout their book, paying stirring tribute to King's personal warmth, spiritual strength and leadership. The book's vivid poetry bursts with information as well as feeling, and the watercolor images are grounded in reality but feel elevated, on a higher plane.

"Martin Rising" ends with a call to action: "When we speak out, seek peace, teach the truth, we all rise to a better tomorrow. And the time is now."

Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney 2011 Awardee

Sojourner Truth's Step-Stomp Stride, by Andrea Davis Pinkney & Brian Pinkney 2010 Awardee

These titles will keep young readers enthralled

"All the Way to Havana″ by Margarita Engle - a boy helps his father keep their very old car running as they make a trip to Havana for his newborn cousin's zero-year birthday. Includes author's note about cars in Cuba.

"Beyond the Bright Sea″ by Lauren Wolk - set adrift on the ocean in a small skiff as a newborn, 12-year-old Crow embarks on a quest to find the missing pieces of her history

Silver People: Voices from the Panama Canal by Margarita Engle 2015 Awardee

The Surrender Tree: Poems of Cuba's Struggle for Freedom by Margarita Engle 2009 Awardee

Wolf Hollow by Lauren Wolk 2017 Awardee

Where Author Jacqueline Woodson Would Like To Take Young People's Literature In 2018

WOODSON: I get to decide my own vision in the end about the work I want to do, how I want to do it, what rooms I want to walk into, what people I feel have not had the kind of access that they should have - mainly underserved people, people in rural communities, incarcerated people - and really point my energies in those directions.

Each Kindness written by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by E.B. Lewis 2013 Awardee

From the Notebooks of Melanin Sun by Jacqueline Woodson 1996 Awardee

I Hadn't Meant to Tell You This by Jacqueline Woodson 1995 Awardee

African-American identity explored through children's picture-book art

Miami University Art Museum and Sculpture Park is gearing up for its latest exhibition, "Telling A People's Story: African-American Children's Illustrated Literature," which will open on Tuesday, Jan. 30.

The exhibition "looks at African-American cultural and historical identity through the lens of children's picture books, particularly looking at the illustrations," said Jason Shaiman, curator of exhibitions, Miami University Art Museum.

The spring 2018 show will feature about 130 original artworks from African-American children's illustrated literature, produced by some of the biggest names in the field. A few of the well-known illustrators represented include Ashley Bryan, Jerry Pinkney, Jan Spivey-Gilchrist, E.B. Lewis and Kadir Nelson, among others.

"Telling A People's Story: African-American Children's Illustrated Literature" will be on display through Saturday, June 30.

"This is the first time any museum has ever attempted an exhibition of this nature. No one else has ventured to create an exhibit focused on African-American identity using children's literature and the pictures. My colleagues and I, and everyone who worked on this realized that this is groundbreaking, and it's so important, especially today," Shaiman said.

Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney 2011 Awardee

Sojourner Truth's Step-Stomp Stride, by Andrea Davis Pinkney & Brian Pinkney 2010 Awardee

First Step: How One Girl Put Segregation on Trial, written by Susan E. Goodman, illustrated by E. B. Lewis, 2017 Awardee

Each Kindness written by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by E.B. Lewis 2013 Awardee

Night Boat to Freedom, written by Margot Theis Raven with pictures by E. B. Lewis 2007 Awardee

Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans written and illustrated by Kadir Nelson 2012 Awardee

The Village That Vanished written by Ann Grifalconi and illustrated by Kadir Nelson 2003 Awardee

7 Ways to Spend MLK Day as a Family

Stepping Stones Museum for Children in Norwalk, CT. In honor of MLK Day, a recording of one of King's great speeches will play throughout the morning in the Multimedia Gallery (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.), kids can create their own peace doves from 11:15 to 11:45, and enjoy a special story time and activity at 1 p.m. Guests will get a chance to read along with Doreen Rappaport's Martin's BIG Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. written by Doreen Rappaport with artwork by Bryan Collier 2002 Awardee

Trouble at the Mines by Doreen Rappaport 1988 Awardee

Faith Ringgold's Searing Portraits of a Racially Divided America

The race riots had not yet ended when Ringgold brought "The American People" to its climactic end with The American People Series #20: Die (1967). It is the only painting in the series in which she directly addressed the riots.

In one corner, two children-a black girl and a white boy-cower underfoot, clinging together.

The young pair serve as a reminder that prejudice is not innate, but learned. "Children have to be taught that some other people who don't look like them are not right," Ringgold has said about these small figures, symbols of innocence amidst the barbarism and indictments of adults who have become consumed with hatred.

Aunt Harriet's Underground Railroad in the Sky by Faith Ringgold 1993 Awardee

Mary Shelley biography to mark Frankenstein's 200th anniversary

Mary's Monster by American author and illustrator Lita Judge is based on Shelley's own diaries. The book tells the story of the author's life, including her elopement to Switzerland with the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley and her creation of Frankenstein and his monster.

"In Mary's Monster, (Judge) has created something truly extraordinary and genre-defying - part biography, part fantasy and part feminist allegory."

One Thousand Tracings: Healing the Wounds of World War II by Lita Judge 2008 Awardee

9 Events in the DMV to Honor Martin Luther King Jr.

MLK Day Celebration

When: Jan. 15, 10:30 a.m. Where: Woodbridge Neighborhood Library, Washington D.C.

Children aged 2 to 12 are encouraged to come with their families to learn about King at this day-long celebration. A screening of the film "Our Friend, Martin" will begin at 10:30 a.m. followed by a reading of "Separate Is Never Equal" by author Duncan Tonatiuh at 2:30 p.m.

Separate is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez and her family's fight for desegregation, written and illustrated by Duncan Tonatiuh 2015 Awardee

Marilyn Brooke Goffstein, children's book author and artist, dies at 77

Even in death, Brooke Goffstein's words and stories will live on.

At a Connecticut hospice facility, the St. Paul native, longtime artist and author of some 30 books kept writing and telling stories until she died Dec. 20 - her 77th birthday.

She went on to illustrate, write and publish about 30 books under the names Brooke Goffstein and M.B. Goffstein, which included mostly children's books but also some young adult novels and biographies of artists.

"She wanted to show children what was in the world," said Allender, who met Goffstein in publishing.

In her obituary, her family asked for one thing: "Create something beautiful for the people around you or buy and read the book of your choice."

Natural History written by M. B. Goffstein 1980 Special Recognition Honoree Awardee

Book turned into stage adaption

A Selma native and award-winning author is seeing her book, "Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom: My Story of the 1965 Selma Voting Rights March," being turned into a play in New York.

The book was released in 2015 and almost immediately became a hit, winning awards such as the Jane Addams Children's Book Award.

Over two years later, the book has been turned into a one-woman play at The Center at West Park in New York. The play goes from Jan. 10 to Jan 20. The first two days of the production were sold out.

"I never imagined I had a story to tell," Lowery said. "I never expected it to impact so many children. Inspiring other people is an awesome thing for me."

Lowery was touched by the success of her book and the difference she was making in the lives of kids.

"I tell children that the change can start with you," Lowery said. "I was jailed nine times before I turned 15. I was not jailed for hurting anybody, but for my beliefs. I was a proud jail bird."

"I remember the first time I heard Dr. King speak," said Lowery. "He told the church audience 'you can get anyone to do anything through steady, loving confrontation.' I knew right then that was how I was going to be able to make a difference in the world."

Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom: My Story of the 1965 Selma Voting Rights March by Lynda Blackmon Lowery 2016 Awardee

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Children's Books Can Shine Light on Difficult Emotions #JACBA Newsletter 12Jan2018

J. Woodson and others... Why We Shouldn't Shield Children From Darkness

We are currently in a golden age of picture books, with a tremendous range to choose from. Some of the best are funny. Or silly. Or informative. Or socially aware. Or just plain reassuring. But I'd like to think there's a place for the emotionally complex picture book, too. Jacqueline Woodson's amazing Each Kindness comes to mind, in which the protagonist misses the opportunity to be kind to a classmate. Margaret Wise Brown's The Dead Bird is a beautiful exploration of mourning from the point of view of children.

Each Kindness written by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by E.B. Lewis 2013 Awardee

From the Notebooks of Melanin Sun by Jacqueline Woodson 1996 Awardee

I Hadn't Meant to Tell You This by Jacqueline Woodson 1995 Awardee

Award-winning illustrator Kadir Nelson to discuss his 'search for truth'

Nelson shared a statement that discussed the strong African-American themes of his art. "It's just a search for truth," writes Nelson. "I think all of us have to find our own truths, and for me, this is part of it. When we learn about history in school or in books, we don't always get the whole truth, and that's kind of what I'm searching for. So when I do a book on the Negro baseball leagues or Harriet Tubman or what have you, it's really a matter of trying to learn that truth for myself. When I learn something and am inspired by it, it motivates me to share it with other people. Children's books are a really great platform that allows me to do that."

Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans written and illustrated by Kadir Nelson 2012 Awardee

The Village That Vanished written by Ann Grifalconi and illustrated by Kadir Nelson 2003 Awardee

Jacqueline Woodson will be America's next National Ambassador for Young People's Literature

Jacqueline Woodson, the author who won a National Book Award for her young adult memoir "Brown Girl Dreaming," has been named the National Ambassador for Young People's Literature.

The appointment was announced by the Library of Congress, one of three organizations that selected Woodson, along with the Children's Book Council and Every Child a Reader.

"I don't believe there are 'struggling' readers, 'advanced' readers or 'non' readers," she said. "I would love to walk away from my two years as ambassador with the qualifiers gone and young people able to see themselves beyond stigma or oft-times debilitating praise."

Each Kindness written by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by E.B. Lewis 2013 Awardee

From the Notebooks of Melanin Sun by Jacqueline Woodson 1996 Awardee

I Hadn't Meant to Tell You This by Jacqueline Woodson 1995 Awardee

Houston's tweens should read for fun

Presentations from popular award-winning authors like Nathan Hale, whose comic-book hybrids offer both original fiction and retellings of significant historical events; Kate DiCamillo, author of the novels "Because of Winn-Dixie" and "The Tale of Despereaux"; Christopher Paul Curtis, author of "Bud, Not Buddy" and many other great books; R. J. Palacio, author of the bestselling "Wonder" - now a major motion picture; and most recently the legendary Katherine Paterson, author of "Bridge to Terabithia," attract hundreds of children and their families, as well as teachers and librarians.

Students listen, riveted, while the writers talk about the fictional worlds they create, what it takes to be a writer, and answer the students' questions. The writers stay afterwards to greet fans and sign books. This kind of relationship-building encourages young readers to think of reading as a cherished part of their lives and not homework.

The Same Stuff as Stars by Katherine Paterson 2003 Awardee

The Great Gilly Hopkins by Katherine Paterson 1979 Awardee

Elijah of Buxton by Christopher Paul Curtis 2008 Awardee

The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis 1996 Awardee

Merwin Conservancy to Launch New Fellowship for Hawai'i Teachers

Teachers will also receive "social-emotional learning" focused professional development support from The Creative Core, one of the top agencies supporting teachers and schools in the state, and receive instruction and guidance from award-winning poet and children's book author Naomi Shihab Nye.

Habibi by Naomi Shihab Nye 1998 Awardee

Sitti's Secrets by Naomi Shihab Nye, illustrated by Nancy Carpenter 1995 Awardee

'The Journey of Little Charlie,' rich storytelling for all ages

Christopher Paul Curtis has the rare gift of being to effortlessly render a youngster's reality readily accessible to readers of all ages. He did it beautifully with the multiple award-winning Bud, Not Buddy, about a motherless boy in search of his father. He does it again with The Journey of Little Charlie (Scholastic Press), looking over the shoulder of a teenager consigned to help an unscrupulous slave catcher track down return-to-bondage fugitives who are living free.

Elijah of Buxton by Christopher Paul Curtis 2008 Awardee

The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis 1996 Awardee

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Read more about the 2017 Awards.

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African-American Stories and Images in 2017-2018 Children's Literature #JACBA Newsletter 8Dec2017

Book Highlight: part 5

This fifth installment of our multi-part series on the 2017 Jane Addams Children's Book Award Ceremony features an introduction given by Book Award Committee Member Sonja Cherry-Paul for Steamboat School: Inspired by a True Story, written by Deborah Hopkinson, illustrated by Ron Husband, published by Disney-Jump at the Sun, an imprint of Disney Book Group, named the Winning Book in the Books for Younger Children category.

Introduction by Sonja Cherry-Paul

Steamboat School: Inspired By A True Story St. Louis, MIssouri 1847, the winner in the Books for Younger Children Category, is written by Deborah Hopkinson, illustrated by Rob Husband and published by Disney-Jump at the Sun, an imprint of Disney Book Group.

"We make our own light here," Reverend John Meachum proclaims. His statement is a powerful metaphor that Deborah Hopkinson and Ron Husband extend across this poignant picture book to juxtapose the oppression of African-Americans with their resilience, determination, ingenuity, and activism. Inside their church, down the basement steps, and into the darkness, the children in this story attend the Tallow Candle School, led by their Reverend John. Through the eyes of a young boy, James, readers discover the importance of education and the measures African-Americans have had to take to learn. By candlelight, James and his peers learn about Reverend John's life and the injustices he has endured as a slave and even after he earned enough money to buy his freedom. James names the essential qualities he and his peers soon see in Reverend John: "He believed in hard work and learning" and "He believed in us too."

One day, the sheriff arrives to announce a new law: African-Americans, enslaved or freed, are not allowed to read or write in the state of MIssouri. But Reverend Meachum will not be deterred. "He's a force like the Mississippi River itself. And like the river, he'll find a way," James' mother consoles. And sure enough, he does. A steamboat, built by Reverend Meachum and anchored in the middle of the Mississippi River becomes the location for the new Freedom School. Outsmarting the racist law by holding school on the river rather than in the state, Reverend Meachum and his students can now get back to work.

With illustrations that glow as if each scene occurs by candlelight, Husband captures the theme of this book: resilience in the face of injustice. Detailed sepia tones are accented by selective uses of red and blue. The illustrations invite readers to ponder about the symbolic colors of our nation that represent freedom and the myriad ways in which for African Americans, this has been denied. Husband's expressive illustrations and Hopkinson's lyrical writing work in tandem to spotlight the struggle for justice and the indomitable resolve of Reverend John Meachum.

For creating a book that invites children to consider how people, especially young people, can break cycles of fear and respond creatively, nonviolently, and humanely to injustice and conflict, it is with great pleasure that we present the Jane Addams Children's Book award, in the books for younger children category, to author Deborah Hopkinson and illustrator Ron Husband.

Acceptance speech by Deborah Hopkinson

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Acceptance speech by Ron Husband

Shared by Maria Elias, book designer

Please arrange to have my acceptance speech read in my absence. May the Jane Addams Committee continue to recognize outstanding children's literature and illustration in the years to come. Sincerely, Ron Husband

"With gratitude and pride I accept the 2017 Jane Addams Children's Book Award for illustrating Steamboat School.

I want to thank the the Jane Addams Committee for recognizing Steamboat School out of the thousands of titles that went to press this past year.

I also want to thank those who made my association with Steamboat School possible and one of the memorable experiences in my life. -Barbara Nelson who first introduced the project. -Ken Shue and staff at Disney Publications Word Wide in California. -Editors Tamson Weston and Rotem Moscovich of Disney/Hyperion Publications New York. -Author Deborah Hopkinson whose word pictures were the inspiration for my illustrations. and my wife LaVonne for her continued love and support.

Again, thank you Jane Addams Committee for honoring Steamboat School with this prestigious award."

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African-American Interest Young Reader's Titles, 2017-2018

The following is a list of African-American interest books for young readers. Compiled from publisher responses to our October PW Call for Information, these titles are publishing between September 2017 and March 2018.

Be a King (Jan., $17.99) by Carole Boston Weatherford, illus. by James E. Ransome, recounts key moments of Dr. King's life alongside a modern class as the students learn about him. Ages 4-8.

Champion: The Story of Muhammad Ali (Jan., $17.99) by Jim Haskins, illus. by Eric Velasquez. A picture book biography of the most famous boxer of all time. Ages 6-10.

42 Is Not Just a Number (Sept., $15.99) by Doreen Rappaport chronicles the extraordinary life of Jackie Robinson and how his achievements won over-and changed-a segregated nation. Ages 8-12.

Schomburg: The Man Who Built a Library (Sept., $16.99) by Carole Boston Weatherford, illus. by Eric Velasquez. A profile of the Afro-Puerto Rican law clerk whose life's passion was to collect books, letters, music, and art from Africa and the African diaspora and bring to light the achievements of people of African descent through the ages. Ages 9-12.

Elephant & Piggie Like Reading! It's Shoe Time! (Nov., $9.99) by Bryan Collier and Mo Willems turns the closet on its heel and redefines what it means to be a pair. Ages 6-8.

The United States v. Jackie Robinson (Jan., $17.99) by Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen, illus. by R. Gregory Christie, recalls Jackie Robinson's courtmartial trial-an important, lesser-known moment in his lifetime of fighting prejudice with strength and grace. Ages 4-8.

Hey Black Child (Nov., $17.99) by Useni Eugene Perkins, illus. by Bryan Collier. A l poem celebrating black children and seeking to inspire all young people to dream big and achieve their goals. Ages 5-8.

Getting Away with Murder (Jan., $10.99) by Chris Crowe revises and updates the Jane Addams Award-winning examination of the Emmett Till murder case, a catalyst of the Civil Rights Movement. Ages 12-up.

Dream March: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the March on Washington (Dec., $4.99) by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, illus. by Sally Wern Comport introduces children to the civil rights movement , Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and the historic March on Washington. Ages: 5-8.

Grandma's Purse (Jan., $17.99) by Vanessa Brantley-Newton. Spend the day with Mimi and her granddaughter in this picture book about the magic found in Mimi's favorite accessory. Ages 3-5.

Frenemies in the Family (Mar., $17.99) by Kathleen Krull, illus. by Maple Lam, takes a humorous look at famous brothers and sisters whose important bonds have shaped their accomplishments... (mostly) for the better. Ages 8-12.

The Journey of Little Charlie (Jan., $16.99) by Christopher Paul Curtis brings his trademark humor and heart to the story of a boy struggling to do right in the face of history's cruelest evils. Ages 9-12.

Martin Rising: Requiem for a King (Jan., $19.99) by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illus. by Brian Pinkney, uses metaphor, spirituality, and multilayers of meaning to describe the final months of Martin Luther King's life and his assassination. Ages 9-12.

In Your Hands (Sept., $17.99) by Carole Boston Weatherford, illus. by Brian Pinkney. In this picture book, a black mother expresses the many hopes and dreams she has for her child. Ages 4-8.

A Night Out with Mama (Oct., $17.99) by Quvenzhane Wallis, illus. by Vanessa Brantley-Newton. A talented girl has a very special night ahead of her--but most special of all, it will be a night out with her mama. Ages 4-8.

Birmingham, 1963 by Carole Boston Weatherford 2008 Awardee

New Shoes by Susan Lynn Meyer, illustrated by Eric Velasquez 2016 Awardee

Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. written by Doreen Rappaport with artwork by Bryan Collier 2002 Awardee

Trouble at the Mines by Doreen Rappaport 1988 Awardee

The Book Itch: Freedom, Truth & Harlem's Greatest Bookstore by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie 2016 Awardee

Getting Away with Murder: The True Story of the Emmett Till Case by Chris Crowe 2004 Awardee

The Book Itch: Freedom, Truth & Harlem's Greatest Bookstore by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie 2016 Awardee

We Shall Overcome: The Story of a Song written by Debbie Levy, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton 2014 Awardee

Harvesting Hope: The Story of Cesar Chavez, written by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Yuyi Morales 2004 Awardee

Wilma Unlimited, written by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by David Diaz 1997 Awardee

Elijah of Buxton by Christopher Paul Curtis 2008 Awardee

The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis 1996 Awardee

Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney 2011 Awardee

Sojourner Truth's Step-Stomp Stride, by Andrea Davis Pinkney & Brian Pinkney 2010 Awardee

Give the gift of words this year

So, in the spirit of helpfulness that I think is the heart of all libraries, I offer a list of favorite children's books published in 2017 to consider as potential holiday purchases. All are perfect gifts for the right person, all cost less than $30, and all will bring enjoyment long after the newest electronic game has been mastered. Who could ask for more?

"Blue Sky White Stars" by Sarvinder Naberhaus illustrated by Kadir Nelson. $17.99. Preschool-grade 2. Celebrate what is best about our country.

"Let's Clap, Jump, Sing and Shout: Games, Songs, and Stories from an African American Childhood" by Patricia McKissack. Illustrated by Brian Pinkney. $24.99. Grades 2-6. The late children's author left us the gift of her word-rich childhood.

Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans written and illustrated by Kadir Nelson 2012 Awardee

The Village That Vanished written by Ann Grifalconi and illustrated by Kadir Nelson 2003 Awardee

A Long Hard Journey: The Story of the Pullman Porter by Patricia and Fredrick McKissack 1990 Awardee

Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney 2011 Awardee

Sojourner Truth's Step-Stomp Stride, by Andrea Davis Pinkney & Brian Pinkney 2010 Awardee

NYPL: Here are the 10 'showstopper' children's books of 2017

According to the NYPL, the committee members read every children's book published in the United States in 2017 that they could get their hands on.

'Bravo! Poems About Amazing Hispanics' A collection of biographical poems, illustrated by Rafael Lopez, that showcases figures from different countries and backgrounds. The book, written by Margarita Engle, is geared toward ages 8 to 12.

Silver People: Voices from the Panama Canal by Margarita Engle 2015 Awardee

The Surrender Tree: Poems of Cuba's Struggle for Freedom by Margarita Engle 2009 Awardee

Chamber Opera Chicago Announces Holiday Double Bill

Christmas. On Dec. 10 and 17, 2017 COC will present "The Miracle of Light" by Victoria Bond, which received its world premiere last year. The opera will be paired with Gian Carlo Menotti's holiday favorite "Amahl and the Night Visitors."

Victoria Bond's opera was written by New York Times best-selling children's author and illustrator Susan L. Roth and was commissioned by The Young Peoples Chorus of New York City, who developed the opera in workshop performances. The new production will feature a newly revised version with new music.

The Mangrove Tree: Planting Trees to Feed Families written by Susan L. Roth and Cindy Trumbore, illustrated by Susan L. Roth 2012 Awardee

Nominations for NAACP Image award

Five books have been nominated for an award in the category "Outstanding Literary Work - Children."

"Becoming Kareem: Growing Up On and Off the Court" - Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (Author), Raymond Obstfeld (With) (Hachette Book Group)

"Before She Was Harriet" - Lesa Cline-Ransome (Author), James E. Ransome (Illustrator) (Holiday House)

"Take a Picture of Me, James VanDerZee!" - Andrea J. Loney (Author), Keith Mallett (Illustrator) (Lee & Low Books)

"The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, A Young Civil Rights Activist" - Cynthia Levinson (Author), Vanessa Brantley-Newton (Illustrator) (S&S Children's Publishing).

"Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History," -- Vashti Harrison (Author), Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

We've Got a Job: The 1963 Birmingham Children's March by Cynthia Levinson 2013 Awardee

We Shall Overcome: The Story of a Song written by Debbie Levy, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton 2014 Awardee

A Q&A With Louise Erdrich, Author of the December #1 Indie Next List Pick

Bookselling This Week: How do you feel now that indie booksellers have chosen Future Home of the Living God as the number-one Indie Next List pick for December?

Louise Erdrich: As the owner of a small independent bookstore, I know that choosing a book to feature is taking a chance. There is limited space, so you must choose wisely. You know many of your customers, and they depend on your suggestion, so you must choose a book that doesn't let them down. You must choose a book that has integrity. But you also need a book that will sell. As a writer, I don't think about this, but as a bookseller knowing what getting chosen means, I have to hope that Future Home of the Living God sells like crazy.

And I am highly honored.

The Birchbark House by Louise Erdrich 2000 Awardee

Question for the newly selected leader of the Aspen Institute: "What are two books that have shaped you as a leader?"

A contemporary "Invisible Man" that people don't know about but should read is "The Circuit" by Francisco Jimenez. It chronicles the story of a Mexican family in the 1950s that crosses the border. And then are migrant farmers on the farming circuits of California properties. Picking cotton. Picking fruit. The kids live in a different shanty or tent or car over the course of that circuit every year, moving from school to school. If someone read "The Circuit" today, they would think about the Dreamers very differently. If they haven't imagined how hard it is for a child to feel a sense of statelessness, to live in limbo, they should read that book. At the same time, the book is a celebration of the culture of the family that comes to America and how the values of Mexico and the values of America fuse and create more. The author of the book, Francisco Jimenez, lived the story and went on to become one of the greatest college professors in America at Santa Clara [University].

The book ends with a terrible frustration that a reader will feel as the family gets deported. And then you remember there's more to the story because the little boy grew up to become the author of the story and one of the greatest teachers of not just immigrant kids but of all kids in Santa Clara. I love the way literature allows us to develop an empathetic response to others. And I also just love the beauty of great language and extraordinary scene setting. And I think that literature has played a role in many social movements both in empowering people to feel they have a voice. And also to bring awareness to communities about the needs of others.

The Circuit: Stories from the Life of a Migrant Child by Francisco Jiménez 1998 Awardee

Tonya Lewis Lee And Nikki Silver's ToniK Productions' Film "MONSTER" To Premiere At 2018 Sundance Film Festival

Tonya Lewis Lee and Nikki Silver's ToniK Productions' MONSTER to world premiere on Monday, January 22nd at 3PM in the Dramatic Competition of the 2018 Sundance Film Festival taking place from January 18th-28th, 2018 in Park City, Utah.

Written by Radha Blank (She's Gotta Have It, Empire), Colen C. Wiley and Janece Shaffer, MONSTER is based on the award-winning novel of the same name by Walter Dean Myers. Shot entirely in New York City, MONSTER surrounds the story of 17-year-old honors student Steve Harmon. Steve is an aspiring filmmaker attending an elite high school in New York, and is being charged with felony murder for a crime he says he did not commit. "Monster" is what the prosecutor calls Harmon, but is Steve truly a monster? As Steve's world comes crashing down around him, the film follows his journey from a smart, likeable young man from Harlem through a complex legal battle that could leave him spending the rest of his life in prison. MONSTER is sure to stimulate conversation in today's relevant narrative on youth in prisons, excessive sentencing, peer pressure, and likeminded issues.

Now Is Your Time! The African-American Struggle for Freedom by Walter Dean Myers 1992 Awardee

Patrol: An American Soldier in Vietnam by Walter Dean Myers 2003 Awardee

The anti-Disney princess, 'The Breadwinner' is painful, sad - and arresting

This is no Disney princess adventure. With the Taliban imposing harsh Islamic restraints on her city, Parvana's daily life is brutish. She works in a marketplace from a blanket spread on the ground alongside her father, a former history teacher crippled after the bombing of his school. The soldiers use thou-shalt-not beatings to violently control intellectuals, repress women and keep public life under control.

Distressing as it is, the film draws you into the characters' lives. This is the first chapter in an award-winning series of novels by Ellis about her headstrong heroine Parvana. Give it a try. You may see her again.

The Heaven Shop by Deborah Ellis 2005 Awardee

The Breadwinner Trilogy, three books by Deborah Ellis 2004 Awardee

Parvana's Journey by Deborah Ellis 2003 Awardee

Dolores

An extraordinary human being and a tireless activist in the battle for justice for farm workers, Dolores Huerta has been US history's forgotten hero. Peter Bratt's moving documentary Dolores is a fascinating revelation of this woman's story and the huge impact she has had on civil rights for the immigrant labourer.

An eye-opening documentary, Dolores is a wake-up call to all of us about the vital importance of emerging from limited perceptions of life to a greater awareness and understanding of our common humanity, and the full recognition of our heroes, unhampered by racism and sexism.

Dolores Huerta: A Hero to Migrant Workers, written by Sarah Warren and illustrated by Robert Casilla 2013 Awardee

Children's book ideas for rewarding holiday gifts

Author/illustrator Kadir Nelson has consistently produced books of beauty in both look and content and has been the recipient of both the Coretta Scott King Author and Illustrator Awards. His If You Plant a Seed (for ages 4-7) is no exception. With little text and gorgeous artwork, Nelson tells the story of a rabbit and a mouse who plant a garden only to come into conflict with a number of birds when the food is ready to eat. It is a simple story of the importance of kindness and cooperation but it is one children will want to read again and again.

Nelson is the illustrator for Sarvinder Naberhaus's Blue Sky White Stars (ages 6-8), a stunning pairing of Nelson's paintings and Naberhaus' spare text. Each two-page spread displays parallels between the American flag and the physical beauty of America as well as the hopes and dreams of the diverse peoples it represents. This book provides an opportunity for a discussion on what America has been and what it could be.

A girl becoming a drummer doesn't sound very unusual in the 21st century, but almost 100 years ago in Cuba it was unheard of. Drum Dream Girl: How One Girl's Courage Changed Music (ages 4-7) by Margarita Engle is based on the true story of Millo Castro Zaldarriaga, a Chinese-African-Cuban girl who wouldn't give up her dream of being a drummer. The rhythmic prose has a drum-like quality that plays perfectly with the story. Drum Dream Girl will be an inspiration to girls (and boys) everywhere who want to grow up and follow their own inner drummer wherever it may lead them.

The book that has had the greatest impact on me recently is Lauren Wolk's Wolf Hollow (ages 10-16). Set in rural Pennsylvania in 1943, it's the story of 12-year-old Annabelle whose life is turned upside down by the arrival of a new girl at her school. Betty bullies Annabelle, but Toby, a World War I veteran who lives by himself in the woods and is considered odd by the townsfolk, comes to her defense. Annabelle gets to know Toby and learns something of his history. But Betty tells a lie about Toby, and as a result these three lives are forever changed. This is a tale that will haunt you for days after you've finished it.

Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans written and illustrated by Kadir Nelson 2012 Awardee

The Village That Vanished written by Ann Grifalconi and illustrated by Kadir Nelson 2003 Awardee

Silver People: Voices from the Panama Canal by Margarita Engle 2015 Awardee

The Surrender Tree: Poems of Cuba's Struggle for Freedom by Margarita Engle 2009 Awardee

Wolf Hollow by Lauren Wolk 2017 Awardee

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Give Children the Gift of Engaging and Transporting Books #JACBA Newsletter 1Dec2017

Book Highlight: part 4

This fourth installment of our multi-part series on the 2017 Jane Addams Children's Book Award Ceremony features an introduction given by Book Award Committee Member Beth McGowan for I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark, written by Debbie Levy, illustrated by Elizabeth Baddeley, published by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, named an Honor Book in the Books for Younger Children category.

Introduction by Beth McGowan

Our first Honor Book for the Younger Children Award is I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark published by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers written by Debbie Levy and illustrated by Elizabeth Baddeley.

Telling the story of one of the most admirable women living in our nation today, this short biography of the Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, told with a humorous touch, focuses on RBG's courage to regularly and vocally disagree when power enforces inequality.

Beginning with Ruth's childhood in Brooklyn, we learn that her mother, Celia Amster Bader, was her inspiration and first taught her to resist. Rather than raise her daughter to find a husband, she raised her to, as Levy says, "go out in the world and do big things." To facilitate the process, her mother took Ruth to a library above a Chinese restaurant where Ruth read of women heroes. And in one of Elizabeth Baddeley's lovely illustrations, we see a reading Ruth dreaming of powerful women.

We also learn that Ruth would never forget the signs of exclusion directed at Jews, her people, or others including Mexicans and African-Americans. We see her from a young age strengthening her muscle of resistance. For example, left-handed, she resisted pressure to write with her right hand, a custom quite usual in much of the 20th century. There were other acts of resistance and persistence as well -- RBG resisted domesticity: she did not want to take home economics or later learn to cook while she did want to go to law school and practice law. And so she did. We see a woman following her desire, resisting pressure to do otherwise.

Yet, coupled with these rules to effect change is a sense that civility and relationships are always essential. The book posits, as do Ginsburg's life and behavior, that to disagree on important matters does not preclude friendship. This truth is exemplified in RBG's relationship with Antonin Scalia, the late right wing Supreme Court Justice with whom she served for so many years. And this tolerance while disagreeing becomes in this picture book, a central tenet of democracy, of peace.

And through it all, Debbie Levy and Elizabeth Baddeley create a regular refrain for young people to hear, see and internalize - I dissent, I disagree, I do not concur. Levy couples this drum beat with another memorable phrase underscoring Ginsburg's steadfastness "to resist and to persist". These phrases, these central messages to children, are reproduced in the visual rhetoric Baddeley creates with words figuring heavily in the work's imagery. Thus text and illustrations combine to help children remember and internalize a triple injunction for life - resist, persist, dissent.

For all these reasons, we happily honor I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes her Mark as a 2017 Jane Addams Children's Book Award Honor book.

Acceptance speech by Debbie Levy, Author

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Acceptance speech by Elizabeth Baddeley, Illustrator

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Book gifts for young readers can bring enduring delights

"My Brigadista Year" by Katherine Paterson (Candlewick Press, $15.99), ages 10-14). Katherine Paterson is known for dealing with unusual and difficult subjects with grace and complete mastery of her craft. When Fidel Castro issued an edict that his country would be completely literate within one year, it meant volunteers. When 13-year old Lora sees the recruitment notice at her secondary school in Havana, she begs her parents for permission. Although at first they are vehemently opposed, Lora becomes a brigadista in the mountains, by day working alongside the campesinos and by night, teaching. Careful research reflects the conditions and difficulties.There is imminent danger from the insurgents, who intend to stop the brigadistas. They fight back, not with guns but with pencils and paper. It's a remarkable bit of history that Paterson serves well.

The Same Stuff as Stars by Katherine Paterson 2003 Awardee

The Great Gilly Hopkins by Katherine Paterson 1979 Awardee

Holiday science book guide for 2017: Give them the cosmos for Christmas

Science for kids: Feathered Dinosaurs

Feathered Dinosaurs: Paleontologists have found solid evidence that many types of dinosaurs had feathers, but you don't often see them shown that way. Brenda Guiberson and illustrator William Low remedy that sad situation for kids aged from 4 to 8. The National Science Teachers Association praises the book for "showing feathers as a major evolutionary development, which gives evidence of the 'connection between the feathered dinosaurs and modern birds.'

Henry and the Kite Dragon, by Bruce Edward Hall, with paintings of William Low 2005 Awardee

Books to take the edge off a child's winter break

"Blue Sky White Stars" by Sarvinder Naberhaus, illustrated by Kadir Nelson. Ages 4 to 8. Dial Books for Young Readers. $17.99.

With a handful of carefully chosen words, this book of exquisitely painted scenes of American life and struggle interposed with images of the American flag brings new glory to Old Glory, finding tremendous meaning in the Stars and Stripes. As the flag is "woven together," so are the linked arms of civil rights marchers; as the flag is "rising up" on its flagpole, a rocket is launching toward one of humankind's greatest achievements, landing on the moon. The precision of the words and pictures, and the beauty of the message, make this a breathtaking ode to the nation's greatest aspirations.

Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans written and illustrated by Kadir Nelson 2012 Awardee

The Village That Vanished written by Ann Grifalconi and illustrated by Kadir Nelson 2003 Awardee

Vietnam Veteran shares experiences with students

Melanie Horn and Miriam Necastro, eighth-grade teachers, are reading the novel "Inside Out and Back Again" by Thanhha Lai in their English Language Arts classes, which follows the journey of a South Vietnamese family who become refugees as Saigon falls April 30, 1975.

Vietnam veteran Patrick T. Gleason shared his story with eighth-grade students at Brookfield Middle School, just in time for Veterans Day. He works as a substitute teacher at local schools and was willing to spend some extra time with the students.

Gleason provided first-hand accounts of his experiences during the year in Vietnam and shared photos of his battalion and his uniform.

Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai 2012 Awardee

Book Review: A Timely Novel of Anti-Progress by Louise Erdrich

Reviewer: I couldn't help wondering what was in the pages that Erdrich cut, and whether, had this book not been brought out so quickly, the loose ends might have come together in a more satisfying way. Still, the urgency of this novel's subject matter goes a long way to compensate for its flaws. The legal disclaimer in the small print at the front is strikingly worded and unusually definitive: "Nothing in this book is true of anyone alive or dead," it reads. If only that were so.

The Birchbark House by Louise Erdrich 2000 Awardee

Poetry Sunday: Lauren Wolk

Lauren Wolk reads her poem "On Why I Will Never Retire with You to Tampa."

After graduating from Brown University with a degree in English literature, Lauren worked at the St. Paul American Indian Center, writing a book on how best to assist battered women in the Native American community.

Wolf Hollow by Lauren Wolk 2017 Awardee

Brainiac: Westminster gets a grant to honor the historic Mendez lawsuit that desegregated California schools

While the landmark lawsuit has been honored with a U.S. Postal Service stamp, had an Emmy-winning documentary film made about it, and seen Sylvia Mendez, the daughter of the lead plaintiffs, honored with a Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2011, in the city of Westminster there's not really been a public place to honor the residents and the city's role in this important piece of history.

Until now, that is, with the announcement by the city of Westminster on its Facebook page on Monday, Nov. 20, that a new bike path will be named after the lawsuit. The Mendez Historic Freedom Trail will be a two-way dedicated bikeway along Hoover Street between Garden Grove Boulevard and Bolsa Avenue.

Separate is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez and her family's fight for desegregation, written and illustrated by Duncan Tonatiuh 2015 Awardee

Is it a good idea to talk about food at the Thanksgiving table?

Cissie Swig hosted a dinner last week for legal scholar Sanford Levinson and writer Cynthia Levinson, to celebrate their new book "Fault Lines in the Constitution: The Framers, Their Fights, and the Flaws That Affect Us Today."

The premise of the book is that the almighty Constitution, a document forged by imperfect people and altered over the years by imperfect people, has flaws. And its imperfections - those that have allowed gerrymandering, for example, the filibuster and the Electoral College, and given the president so much veto power - have been responsible for deep problems in modern life.

The co-authors are in established fields: Cynthia Levinson writes nonfiction for young people (to whom this book is targeted).

We've Got a Job: The 1963 Birmingham Children's March by Cynthia Levinson 2013 Awardee

Literacy project gaining national attention for its success with county school children

The guest of honor at the Moonshot Moment Day of Gratitude was 2015-2016 Kentucky Poet Laureate, George Ella Lyon, who shared her poem 'Where I'm From,' which inspired the Moonshot Rocket's 'Voices: A Community Tapestry of Stories' project.

The group, now known as the Moonshot Community Action Network (MCAN), helped shape the Moonshot Moment goal of achieving 90 percent literacy by third grade in 2018.

You and Me and Home Sweet Home by George Ella Lyon and Stephanie Anderson 2010 Awardee

Famous, for 15 seconds or less

At the turn of the 2000s, when The Breadwinner was first published, she pledged the royalties to an Afghan women's group. Ellis was a part-time writer back then and had been doing anti-war work in Afghanistan and writing "very unsuccessfully" for a long time.

As for the donated royalties, which is no small sum, Ellis points out that there's more to it than that. The book has been a starting point for actions that are putting kids in schools in different places around the world. The new film carries on the awareness of the issue and a mission.

"It's about the need we have to do something good in the world," Ellis says. "That we can effect change, that we can be hopeful and that we can make things better."

The Heaven Shop by Deborah Ellis 2005 Awardee

The Breadwinner Trilogy, three books by Deborah Ellis 2004 Awardee

Parvana's Journey by Deborah Ellis 2003 Awardee

Love to Love You, Baby Modern Love By JACQUELINE WOODSON

My memory of those years is loud - filled with strobe lights and "Disco sucks" being shouted by haters, alive with names like Sylvester, Grace Jones and Tina Turner, who sang and danced and hung out only inches from me. So when my beloved city tries to big-box-store and middle-ground itself into something tamer and in line with the rest of the country, I venture back to that time of sheer possibility, when Manhattan was a place people from so many different neighborhoods and classes came to. They danced beside one another, shared a joint, cheered on a black woman dropping from the sky. And I remember that the city I love is deeper, older, more beautiful than those who weren't here then can ever understand.

Each Kindness written by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by E.B. Lewis 2013 Awardee

From the Notebooks of Melanin Sun by Jacqueline Woodson 1996 Awardee

I Hadn't Meant to Tell You This by Jacqueline Woodson 1995 Awardee

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