Thoughts on Newbery and Caldecott 2011 (Part 2)

In our last post on the book awards I discussed some of the front-runners for the Caldecott Medal. Now it's the Newbery Medal's turn.  We are still making our way through the books that are generating buzz but here's what we have read so far and what we think about it... 

What Happened on Fox Street by Tricia Springstubb
The story of lovable Mo Wren and her friends and neighbors reminds me a lot of past winner, The Higher Power of Lucky. It's got a plucky heroine, a little bit of mystery and a lot of heart. I felt the mystery was a little too obvious and as a result there are some slow spots. But What Happened on Fox Street does pack a lot of emotion in a slim book. If that's enough to win the Newbery remains to be seen...

One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia
This book has definite Newbery potential.  The story of three sister, Delphine, Vonetta, and Fern, who fly across the country to Oakland to meet the mother who abandoned them, is both an adventure and a heart breaker. I really enjoyed getting immersed in the world of 1960's Oakland.  My only criticism is that the end felt rushed.  But overall, it was a stellar book.

Countdown by Deborah Wiles
This “documentary novel” is the first in the planned Sixties Trilogy and a sure contender this awards season. You can read our Book Buzz Review here. The format of this book is really what makes it a stand out.  Something this new and different is sure to catch the notice of the awards committee!

But we just aren't ready to make a final Newbery prediction yet.  There is too much more to read and discuss. Next up, we'll write about Plain Kate by Erin Bow, Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper, Alchemy and Meggy Swann by Karen Cushman, and more.  And please let us know what your own thoughts and predictions are!