Playing the Cards You're Dealt
​by Varian Johnson read by Dion Graham

Anthony Joplin has been dealt a tough hand. He’s short. Hence the nickname Ant. He wants to play in the community Spades tournament, but his partner dropped out. Ant’s only option is a girl. She's a shrewd card player. But she's a girl! However, he has a more pressing problem: his father is addicted to gambling and alcohol. Ant finds dad staying up all night, playing online poker and taking swigs of some mystery liquid in a red plastic cup. His first reaction is to ignore and rationalize his father’s behavior, then to make excuses and try to protect his dad. He is torn. When is silence the wrong response? Is keeping his father's addictions secret the act of a loyal son? Would talking to his mother about his father be a betrayal?

Listen to an audio clip.

Graphic Novels for the Win

​

One of the historic announcements at the 2020 American Library Association’s Youth Media Awards was the Newbery Award. Jerry Craft’s New Kid is the first graphic novel to receive this distinction. Previous award-winning comics include: 2007 Printz award American Born Chinese, 2007 Sibert honor To Dance, 2015 Newbery honor El Deafo, 2015 Caldecott honor This One Summer, 2016 Newbery honor Roller Girl, 2016 Sibert honor Drowned City, 2017 Coretta Scott King Award March: Book Three, 2017 Excellence in Nonfiction Award March: Book Three, 2017 Printz Award March: Book Three, 2017 Sibert Award March: Book Three, 2017 Pura Belpré Award Lowriders to the Center of the Earth, 2019 Morris Finalist Check, Please!, 2019 Excellence in Nonfiction Honor, Faithful Spy (hybrid text and graphics), 2019 Excellence in Nonfiction Finalist Hey Kiddo, 2019 Excellence in Nonfiction Award The Unwanted, 2019 Sibert Honor The Unwanted. ​

2007 was the breakthrough year with graphic novels capturing the Printz Award and a Sibert Honor. There followed an eight-year gap (EIGHT YEARS!) before graphic novels began to pop up on award lists. Two titles each were awarded in 2015 and 2016. In 2017 one book, March: Book Three garnered top honors with four ALA awards, in addition to the National Book Award for Young People's Literature and an Eisner Award. That's a lot of stickers on one cover! The momentum built in 2019 with four comics winning awards and The Unwanted received two awards. This year New Kid earned the covetous Newbery Award. Graphic novels for the win. Huzzah!

Worth Noting

Young California surfer Trot and her one-eyed cat discover a fantasy underwater world. Inspired by Vietnamese folktales and Frank Baum, they are brimming with stunning design and nouveau style art.

Historical fiction chronicling the life and legacy of African legend Shaka with fascinating insights into Zulu history. Explores the complex role of leadership and chronicles the expanded the role of women in this society. The second of two volumes.

Middle grade tale of witchcraft and magic. It's also a story of three generations of women. Thoughtful contemplation of identity with a unique twist. Bonus: sparkles with wit and visual humor.

A well-researched account of Brontë's struggle to become an author is featured in The Center for Cartoon Studies reality-based series. An independent woman living in the 1880's and supporting herself is a compelling story.

This hybrid combines distinct first person narrative text with emotion-packed images which give life to this  story of immigration and sibling rivalry. Bonus: amazing mouth-watering cakes described in each chapter.

Big Ideas That Changed the World recounts this significant historical event in graphic novel format. Excellent pacing enhances the tension culminating in the successful lunar landing of Apollo 11.

Superlative 2019 Illustrated Children's Books 

Travel the world with this year's award winners.  Pairing these picture books with a map of the world would make an interesting learning experience for young readers. Note: Books with a connection outside the continental United States are designated with a global icon.

Small in the City written and illustrated by Sydney Smith Sydney Smith  lives in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Small in the City published by Neal Porter Books, is an imprint of Holiday House. The story is set in Toronto. Fun Fact: Town Is by the Sea, illustrated by Smith is a 2017 Best Illustrated Children's Book.

Another written and illustrated by Christian Robinson Christian Robinson lives in San Francisco, California in a converted warehouse. Another is published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Simon and Schuster. Fun Fact: Leo: A Ghost Story was recognized a 2015 Best Illustrated Children's Book.

The Lost Cousins written and illustrated by B.B. Cronin Brian Cronin was born and raised in Dublin, Ireland.  He now lives in New York. The Lost Cousins is published by Viking Books for Young Readers. Fun Fact: Cronin has created several Lost titles including The Lost Christmas, The Lost Picnic, The Lost House.

A Million Dots written and illustrated by Sven Völker Sven Völker, German Professor of Art and Design. A Million Dots is published by British publisher, Cicada Books. Fun Fact: There's a Little Black Spot on the Sun Today is a collaboration: "King of Pain" lyrics by Sting and illustrations by Völker.

Just Because written by Mac Barnett and illustrated by Isabelle Arsenault Isabelle Arsenault is a Canadian illustrator living in Montreal, Quebec. Just Because is published by Candlewick. Fun Fact: Migrant (2011) and Jane, the Fox, and Me (2013) are New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Books.

Child of Glass written and illustrated by Beatrice Alemagna Beatrice Alemagna is from Bologna, Italy. Child of Glass is published by Enchanted Lion Books. Fun Fact: Alemagna's On a Magical Do-Nothing Day is a 2017 New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Book.

Monkey on the Run written and illustrated by Leo Timmers ​Leo Timmers was born in Belgium. Monkey on the Run is published by Gecko Press in New Zealand. Fun Fact: Timmers is currently developing an animated TV series based on his work. The Boring Book written and illustrated by Shinsuke Yoshitake Shinsuke ​Yoshitake, born in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan illustrates children's books and essays. ​The Boring Book is published by Chronicle Books. Fun Fact: Yoshitake also creates comics.

​The Farmer written and illustrated by Ximo Abadía Ximo Abadía, illustrator and graphic designer, lives and works in Madrid, Spain.   The Farmer is published by Holiday House. Fun Fact: His work was selected for the Bologna Children's Illustrator's Exhibition in 2017. I Miss My Grandpa written and illustrated by Jin Xiaojing ​Jin Xiaojing is an illustrator based in New York City. I Miss My Grandpa is published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. Fun Fact: Printed in a bilingual format with Chinese translations and Mandarin pinyin transliterations.

The Best Illustrated Children’s Books of 2018

​Since 1952, we’ve convened a rotating annual panel of three expert judges, who consider every illustrated children’s book published that year in the United States. They select the winners purely on the basis of artistic merit. The judges this time were Leonard Marcus, a children’s literature historian and critic; Jenny Rosenoff, a children’s librarian at the New York Public Library; and Bryan Collier, the author and illustrator of many acclaimed picture books and a past winner of the award.

The Best Illustrated Children’s Books of 2017

​This year marks the 65th anniversary of the Best Illustrated Children’s Books Award — and the first year of the Times’ partnership with the New York Public Library on the honor. We’re unveiling a new name: The New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Children’s Books Award. The Times and NYPL share a mission: to recognize the best in children’s literature and bring great books to young readers.
As always, the winners were selected by a panel of three judges, who based their decision purely on artistic merit. The 2017 judges are Steven Guarnaccia, an associate professor of illustration at Parsons The New School for Design and the author and illustrator of numerous books; Marjorie Priceman, the author and illustrator of many children’s books and the winner of two Caldecott Honors and two New York Times Best Illustrated Books Awards; and Louise Lareau, the head librarian of the New York Public Library Children’s Center.   New York Times November 2, 2017

Young People's Poet Laureate
​Margarita Engle

Congratulations Margarita Engle, named by The Poetry Foundation as Young People's Poet Laureate "in recognition of a career devoted to writing exceptional poetry for young readers."  This Cuban American author is the first Latino to receive the award.  She will serve at Poet Laureate for a period of two years. ​Here are some of my favorite images of Margarita Engle. They capture her gentle manner and her love of nature.​

I distinctly remember my introduction to the work of Engle. While strolling through the book displays at an American Library Association conference, a small volume caught my eye. The title The Poet Slave of Cuba: A Biography of Juan Francisco Manzano and the stunning cover art by Sean Qualls intrigued me. I picked up a copy and was immediately entranced. What a remarkable man! I left that day with a copy of the book and a determination to seek out the works of Engle.

I had the honor to serve on the YALSA Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults Award committee for 2016.  Enchanted Air: Two Cultures, Two Wings: A Memoir​ was selected as an Honor Book.  I had the opportunity to read this volume many times, taking copious notes. The more I studied this book, the greater my appreciation for the depth and strength this memoir and the elegant poetry she employs to tell her story.

Look what's on my desk: Titles from Margarita Engle, Young People's Poet Laureate and all published in 2017. This trio of books explore and celebrate Hispanic literature, history and culture. Her work is indicative of her "passion, knowledge of nature, and curiosity about the world." Here is a brief glimpse at these three exciting new poetic works. While each of these books have been published for children, the subject matter and the exquisite language and art are suitable for readers of all ages.

​All the Way to Havana
by Margarita Engle ill Mike Curato

"Cara cara" Cars! Beginning with the fabulous end papers, readers are treated to images of some amazing retro cars. But this book is about more than cars. It is a story of family and resourcefulness, a story of finding joy and pride in simple things. Take a trip to Havana in a blue 1953 Chevy. This is one ride you will want to take again and again. Mike Curato visited Havana to research this book and his attention to accurate detail shows on every page.

Miguel's Brave Knight: Young Cervantes and His Dreams of Don Quixote
​by Margarita Engles ill Raúl Colón

"No giant or dragon  is bigger or stronger  ​than the human imagination" The life of young Miguel Cervantes is brilliantly captured in a series of poems highlighting his struggles and dreams. Engles does not shy away from including the painful episodes of his childhood: an absent father, a family struggling to survive, the threat of the plague, and limited opportunities for schooling. This is counterbalanced by Cervantes imagination, love to story, and desire to learn. Colón's gorgeous ink and colorwash illustrations are the perfect blend of reality and fantasy.

Bravo! Poems About Amazing Hispanics
by Margarita Engle ill Rafael López

"So many, so varied, such a beautiful mixture of dreams!" This compilation of poems celebrating the contributions of Hispanic Americans highlights famous as well as lesser-known individuals. ​​Back matter includes additional information as well as a listing of "more amazing Latinos."  Strong colorful graphic art by López enriches the poetry. Kudos to the publisher for simultaneously publishing this book in Spanish and English.

Enjoy the wide range of books that Engles has created for a variety of audiences Engle's poetry and prose are a gift to young readers everywhere.  They have timeless appeal and will remain classics for years to come.

Ape and Armadillo Take Over the World by James Sturm

​Each year during the San Diego Comic-Con, winners of the prestigious Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards are announced. Recognition is awarded to outstanding comics and comic-related materials published during the previous year. Among the many categories, this year's nominees include a stellar group of comics published for early readers. ​Take a look at one of the nominees for this year's award.

Ape and Armadillo Take Over the World by James Sturm introduces readers to the playground antics of two friends: Ape and Armadillo. As Agents of Evil, they devise a scheme to combat the evil forces of the world. However, there is a problem. Armadillo has developed his own special plan. Ape will combat the evil-doers. Armadillo will sweep in afterward, assuming the role of the conquering hero. This is not working so well for Ape and he objects. It's unfair! There follows a discussion on the meaning of "unfair" and what is a "good idea" entails. Eventually the friends compromise, negotiating a plan that both agree will work. Engaging characters, sparkling dialog that zings when read aloud, great action scenes which include a space cannon, plenty of gentle humor, and ice cream, make this a sure-fire hit for young readers. Bonus: There are also dogs. Lots of dogs. World domination like you've never experienced it.

I have planned a few workshops and storytimes to take place this summer. One workshop will be with a group of teens and a separate storytime will be for children whose ages span a wide range. I plan to use this book along with the comic panel templates and prompts. While the book is specifically geared to younger readers, the concepts translate well with middle grade and teens interested in creating their own comics. ​Thanks James Sturm and Toon Books for this fantastic leveled comic for early readers.

Why yes. I do have a signed copy!

Companion Books

Burt's Way Home ​by James Martz

The Creeps: The Trolls Will Feast ​by ​Chris Schweizer

I'm Grumpy ​by Jennifer L. Holm & ​Matthew Holm

Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea ​by Ben Clanton

YALSA's 2016 Award for Excellence in Nonfiction

Most Dangerous: Daniel Ellsberg and the Secret History of the Vietnam War written by Steve Sheinkin, and published by Roaring Brook Press, an imprint of Macmillan’s Children’s Publishing Group Sheinkin’s latest is a thrilling journalistic account of government insider Daniel Ellsberg, who leaked the Pentagon Papers and exposed the questionable decisions that led to the United States’ involvement in the Vietnam War. This cinematic work simultaneously recounts a history of the Vietnam War, details the complete reversal of one man’s loyalties, chronicles the downfall of a presidential administration, examines First Amendment rights, and explores honor and morality. A timely exploration of American history that crackles with tension and excitement.

Symphony for the City of the Dead:  Dmitri Shostakovich and the Siege of Leningrad written by M.T. Anderson, and published by Candlewick Press Dmitri Shostakovich’s Seventh Symphony was completed during the horrors of the 900-day Siege of Leningrad during World War II. Anderson’s sweeping history of the first half of the twentieth century in Soviet Russia and his focus on the life of the slight, bespectacled composer is dramatic, challenging, and immersive. Political and cultural revolutions and upheavals enveloped Russia over the decades during which Shostakovich grew into one of the West’s most celebrated composers. Meticulous research and a captivating narrative celebrate courage, perseverance—and music.

Enchanted Air: Two Cultures, Two Wings: A Memoir written by Margarita Engle, and published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing Cuban? American? Lush island paradise or fast-paced city living? These are the two worlds that Margarita Engle eloquently describes through lyrical, free-verse poems as she attempts to define herself, her family, and her country within the context of being biracial during the United States’ invasion of Cuba at the Bay of Pigs. The power of this book lies in the emotional connections and vivid imagery evoked by observing the simple differences between Engle’s two families as she deftly explores both cultures’ customs and traditions.

First Flight Around the World: The Adventures of the American Fliers Who Won the Race written by Tim Grove,  and published by Abrams Books for Young Readers, an imprint of ABRAMS In 1924, a team of American aviators embarked on a race to circumnavigate the globe. During their 150-day journey, the crew faced hostile weather, pesky reporters, mechanical failures, and agonizing disappointments. Drawing on archival materials, Grove enlivens this story of historical achievement with humor and fascinating travel anecdotes, while portraying the perseverance and dedication of the crew. This suspenseful tale is a visual feast with heart.

This Strange Wilderness:  The Life and Art of John James Audubon written by Nancy Plain, and published by University of Nebraska Press John James Audubon traveled the length and breadth of North America in service of his monumental Birds of America, the work that marked his lasting reputation as a naturalist. Plain’s account, drawn from Audubon’s journals and letters, conveys the artist’s determination (some regarded him as a madman) to document the continent’s rich variety of birds and other wildlife. This elegantly designed book deftly blends art and ornithology, and includes lovely reproductions of Audubon’s work.

2016 Excellence in Nonfiction Vetted Nomination List

And the finalists are...

Challenger Deep by Neal Shusterman

​Most Dangerous: Daniel Ellsberg and the Secret History of the Vietnam War by Steve Sheinkin

Bone Gap by Laura Ruby

Nimona by Noel Stevenson

The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin

Now that I am officially a Texan, it seems fitting to feature a Lone Star State author. So...introducing the books of  Chris Barton. I remember reading Shark vs Train for the bazillionth time to the youngest grandchild and marveling that the story never seemed to get old, for him or for me. I enjoyed his 2010 Siebert Honor Award-winning story of The Day-Glow Brothers. Imagine my surprise when I located Attack! Boss! Cheat Code! for Reading Style Guide resource and discovered that it was written by (yes that's right)  Chris Barton. I started to become aware of how versatile Chris is. He seems to find the most interesting projects - ones that would never occur to me. When I read his books, his special way of looking at events shines through with "energy and life” (The Day-Glo Brothers author's note). This year Chris has published not one but two books for young readers: The Amazing Age of John Roy Lynch "It's the story of a guy who in ten years went from teenage field slave to U. S. Congressman" (author's note). and The Nutcracker Comes to America: How Three Ballet-loving Brothers Created a Holiday Tradition.  I wonder: Could this be a contender for longest picture-book-title of 2015?

The Nutcracker Comes to America: How Three Ballet-loving Brothers Created a Holiday Tradition by Chris Barton illustrated by Cathy Gendron

Front end papers: setting the scene

The brothers first began performing in vaudeville.

Nutcracker image from Gendron's website.

Nutcracker program covers.