2008 Children's Book Awards
Every year I wait excitedly for the announcements of the winners of the big awards in children and teen literature. Some years I am surprised, others a bit disappointed, only because MY favorite may not have won. This year, there were a couple of surprises.
The Caldecott Medal, awarded for the best book illustrations, went to The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick, a novel for children. Granted, it is a novel in pictures and words, and it isn't always picture books that win, but this surprised me. I actually liked the illustrations more than the story, so it was a pleasant surprise.
The Newbery Medal, given for the best writing in children's literature, was for a non-fiction title this year, Good Masters! Sweet Ladies! Voices from a Medieval Village by Laura Amy Schlitz. I have to admit, this one ran under my radar, and of course now there is a waiting list for it!
The Michael L. Printz Award, given for the best teen book, went to White Darkness by Geraldine McCaughrean. I've seen this book and read about it; however, I haven't read it yet. Time to order that one, too!
Since I had no clear favorites this year, I'll have to wait to read the winners I haven't yet read to form my opinion.