Back in 2017, I successfully guessed the The Girl Who Drank the Moon had a good shot at the Newbery. Last year's winner was also fantasy (or at least very fantasy adjacent)--When You Trap a Tiger, by Tae Keller. Will another fantasy/sci fi book win this year? Here are some I think might have a chance.
The Raconteur's Commonplace Book, by Kate Milford (my review). This is my top pick. I think it is the strongest writing of any mg I've read this year. Not only did I personally love it and find it entertaining, I think if the committee wants "literature" this might be it.
The Last Cuentista, by Donna Barba Higuera (my review) A strong contender primarily based on the incredibly powerful story.
Root Magic, by Eden Royce (my review) A powerful, moving, well-written story that is also important.The Troubled Girls of Dragomir Academy, by Anne Ursu (my review) I think this is Anne Ursu's best book, which is saying a lot. And the Newbery could use, I think, a bit of smashing the patriarchy.
Do you have any mg spec fic favorites in the running?
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I've seen Amari and the Night Brothers tossed around as a contender-- though I doubt it's strong enough against the competition, it's the only book I read last year that has a remote chance, so I'll give it a cheer!
ReplyDeleteAny of these are possible, and all fall within the normal parameters of books that the judges like that my students don't care much about. I am somehow always disappointed by the Newberys, but continue to care.
ReplyDeleteLast Cuentista seems to me like one some kids at least will like lots....
DeleteYou remind me I wanted to read The Raconteur's Commonplace Book - and it's available from the e-library! I'll check it out.
ReplyDeleteThe others are on hold but I'll hope to read it soon. I've not been reading MG fantasy much at all so this is a good shortlist.
I hope you enjoy it! I love Kate Milford's writing.
DeleteI haven't read a lot of books from 2021 but I agree that Too Bright to See has a good shot. I would be very pleased to see it awarded.
ReplyDeleteI was very glad to see it got at least a nod!
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