John Newbery, an 18th century British bookseller, is the namesake for this award, which honors the Association for Library Service to Children's choice for the most distinguished contribution to children's literature each year. A complete list of all books that have been awarded the Newbery Medal or Newbery Honor can be found here. Readers will discover that Newbery award-winning books are rich in literary merit and highly worthwhile. We have selected a few recent winners and honorees on this page.
The Higher Power of Lucky
When You Reach Me
Written by Rebecca Stead
Reading level: 4.6
Intereste level: 5-8
Life for twelve year old Miranda and her best friend, Sal, is quite normal. They live in the same New York city apartment building and are together most of the time...until mysterious things begin to happen. Sal gets punched by a kid on the street for what seems like no reason at all and no longer gives Miranda the time of day. the apartment key Miranda's mom keeps hidden is stolen and then Miranda receives a mysterious note. The notes keep coming and Miranda realizes someone knows things about her no one should and things that haven't even happened yet.
Reviewed by Lesley Hermann
Dark Emperor & Other Poems of the Night
By Joyce Sidman
Illustrated by Rick Allen
Science and nature are rendered in verse and block prints to honor the intriguing aspects of the world after dark. Every poem is accompanied by factual information about a variety of species from the common and well-known, like the owl and the bat, to the obscure: the primrose moth and the red eft. The poems are written in a variety of styles, from classic rhyming style to concrete poems and free verse. The book includes a glossary of science terms to assist readers. The illustrations are a perfect match for the poetry with specific details that draw the reader in for closer study. This beautiful collection of poems is a perfect fit for children who love the outdoors, fans of mysterious nocturnal creatures, and those who love language. The poems and artwork could easily inspire young writers and artists to create their own homages to the natural world.
Recommended for Grades 3-6
Reading Level: 8.6
Reviewed by Robin Hosemann