Scott Sussman highlights the year’s award-winning books, includes links, and also suggests great books to be read in a lifetime.

2020 Newbery Contenders

Over 40 titles have been suggested as possible Newbery contenders. Linda Sue Park’s PRAIRIE LOTUS leads with 11 nominations. Park won the Newbery in 2002 with A SINGLE SHARD. A personal favorite is Ernesto Cisneros‘ debut novel, EFRÉN DIVIDED, about seventh-grader Efrén Nava who must take care of his twin siblings after their mother is…

Free Picture Books Answer Kids’ Questions About Covid-19

“My Hero is You” illustrated by Helen Patuck explores children’s questions and fears about COVID-19. The book, which targets 6- to 11-year-olds, was developed in collaboration with multiple humanitarian organizations, including the World Health Organization, the United Nations Children’s Fund and Save the Children.  “My Hero is You” and others are available as downloads and…

Pippi Longstocking to Celebrate her 75th Birthday

Swedish author Astrid Lindgren’s Pippi Longstocking, originally Pippilotta Viktualia Rullgardina Krusmynta Efraimsdotter Långstrump, will celebrate her 75th birthday on May 21, 2020. First published in 1945, the series is now among the most translated children’s books in the world, with more than 70 million copies sold in 77 languages.  Not familiar with the books? Click…