Recently Nominated Books
Pablo Neruda’s early life is imagined in this enchanting, fictionalized biography. Ryan’s own poetic language echoes Neruda’s sense of wonder, whimsy and passion and fully captures this shy young poet’s amazing resolve to overcome the castigations of an over-bearing father and later, a militaristic government. Sis’ illustrations heighten the magical nature of the story as well as encapsulate the reality of Neruda’s fears growing up. This beautifully crafted book is printed in green ink—the color Neruda chose to write his own works and to signify “esperanza.” Author notes, sources and representative poems of the poet are final perfecting touches.
Mary Alice Garber
This is the fourth installment in Turner's series and is truly intellectually engrossing, satisfying and a sumptuous read. Although Eugenides and the Queen of Attolia are featured, the story focuses on Sophos, the reluctant heir to the Sounis throne. Kidnapped by those who want a puppet king, Sophos escapes into slavery, and we see him slowly grow into the man-and king-he will become. Political intrigue, plot twists, and the full-bodied creation of a semi-classical world make this a standout. Although having read the others in the series makes for a much richer experience, I think that newcomers to Turner's world will find much to love-and will seek out the first three in the series.
Jennifer Ralston
This audio version of the nominated print title, Incarceron is wonderfully read by Kim Mai Guest who changes voices for each character, a helpful tactic for fantasy titles, in my opinion. The language is beautiful and descriptive. The story's quest covers boundaries between worlds and eras. A blend of scifi, fantasy and philosophy make this book unique and give it a broad appeal to a variety of readers. Ages 10 and up.
Nancy Bronez
With perfectly simple language and illustrations to match, we get to see Henry's crush developing on the temptress Chloe. (I love the way she gets that muffin!) But despite the apparent spare illustration style, there's so much to look at - from the football helmets and backpacks cast aside, to the flowers/hearts that bloom when Henry looks at Chloe. This book is totally child-centered and one that gets better and better with each reading.
Jamie Watson
Twelve-year-old Liam is "not exactly" on a school trip to the Lake District. He's "more, sort of," on a space ship orbiting the moon. He records an explanation for his parents using the audio diary function on his mobile phone. Boyce examines the gravity of adult responsibility with weightless humor, and the narrator's unhurried voice moves easily between Liam's spacey musings, panic, and enthusiasm. (Note: This title is available only as an MP3 download.)
Rachel Wood
At the end of the Vietnam War, Y’Tin has become quite expert in the delicate art of elephant training and has grown close to his young elephant. When the Vietcong guerillas attack his village, he and a friend escape with his elephant to the jungle where he uses his training in jungle navigation and survival skills to save them until they risk going back to the village. Kadohata has written a fine book that should help young readers understand some of the pain of the war and its aftermath, but she also convincingly portrays the beauty of the land and people of Vietnam.
Jewell Stoddard
When Piggie rises and says she is going, Gerald is crushed and begs her to stay. He is frantic that she not leave but Piggie remains firm while Gerald throws fit after fit. Finally Piggie reveals she is just going to GO have lunch. Relieved, Gerald invites himself along. Another marvelous beginning reader tale of friendship with all its warts.
Joan Kindig
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