KBA Panel 2014

It's my honor and privilege to serve once again this year on the Kentucky Bluegrass Award

Panel for Middle Grades.  Throughout the year, the other panel members and I read, read, read and then get together via email to nominate our favorite books of the year.  We narrow the list down throughout the school year, removing and even adding to the list to ensure we have the strongest representation of 6-8 literature available.  We prefer the copyright date not be older than 2 years to keep the list "fresh".  We never choose a sequel.  However, with that being said, we have chosen in the past to put Small Steps by Louis Sachar on the list because of it's ability to stand alone even though it's a companion book, and some even argue sequel, to Holes.  Because the list is due in April, we meet in person twice during the school year to discuss the books.  I always attend the Lexington meeting in March for a couple of reasons... first, I love attending the last meeting where the list is finalized.  Second, I have fallen in love with the Bronte Bistro and their amazing cup of chai.  Now that next year's list is finalized, I'll be asking my students to vote for their favorite Bluegrass book from the 13-14 school year.  Cannot wait to find out which book is the North Middle favorite!  

Happy Reading!
RC