Young People’s Literature – 2011 National Book Award Finalists

Though I haven’t read any of these, it’s always good to know what’s getting praise, so here’s the National Book Award finalist. Sometimes I find these choices are hit and miss because they are chosen for import, politics or skill in writing – not story. Story and being compelling is more important to a good read than anything. 

MY NAME IS NOT EASY By Debby Dahl Edwardson

Age Range: 10 – 14

The story of three Iñupiaq children (then known as Eskimos) living above the Arctic Circle who are sent to a Catholic boarding school with other children, white and Indian.

OKAY FOR NOW By Gary D. Schmidt 

Age Range: 10 – 14

It’s 1968.

SHINE By Lauren Myracle 

Age Range: 14 – 18

When her gay best friend is brutally beaten in contemporary Black Creek, N.C., a withdrawn teen tracks his assailant.

CHIME By Franny Billingsley

Age Range: 14 – 18

“I’ve confessed to everything and I’d like to be hanged. Now, if you please.”

INSIDE OUT AND BACK AGAIN By Thanhha Lai

Age Range: 9 – 12

An enlightening, poignant and unexpectedly funny novel in verse is rooted in the author’s childhood experiences.

FLESH AND BLOOD SO CHEAP The Triangle Fire and Its Legacy By Albert Marrin

Age Range: 12 – 18

The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire in 1911 resulted in the greatest loss of life in a New York City workplace until the 9/11 attacks nearly a century later.