2013 Newbery

Dear 2013 Newbery Committee,

Thank you for spending your Newbery term searching for the most distinguished contribution to children's literature. I bet you can recite this part of the John Newbery Award Selection Committee Manual in your sleep: distinguished is defined as: 

• Marked by eminence and distinction; noted for significant achievement. 

• Marked by excellence in quality. 

• Marked by conspicuous excellence or eminence.

• Individually distinct. 

Thank you for coming to consensus that The One and Only Ivan embodies those qualities. I know the word distinguished pops into my head whenever someone mentions Ivan.

I hope the next week is dedicated to catching up on your favorite television series, spending quality time with friends and family, and feeling proud that you selected a timeless book that will be passed down from one generation to the next. 

Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I'm sending you virtual hugs and a standing ovation. 

-John 

P.S. I was the guy in the convention center with tears streaming down his face. Tears, tears, tears. I kept wishing the real Ivan were still alive to hear the news.

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate 

Splendors and Glooms by Laura Amy Schlitz 

******

Three Times Lucky by Sheila Turnage 

******

Bomb by Steve Sheinkin 

Head on over to TeachingBooks.net to hear this great introduction to Bomb. 

I am giving away a copy of The One and Only Ivan. 

Rules for the Giveaway 

1. It will run from 1/29 to 11:59 p.m. on 2/1. 

2. You must be at least 13.

3. Please pay it forward.