The Newbery Medal is awarded each year to “the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children.” The Newbery Medal is to children’s literature what the Oscar is to the Academy Awards. In plain English: This award is given to the best chapter book of the year. Some popular Newbery award-winning titles include “The One and Only Ivan” by Katherine Applegate, “The Giver” by Lois Lowry and “The Graveyard Book” by Neil Gaiman.
About our Mock Newbery Program:
Throughout the fall, we are inviting youth in grades 4-8 to join us twice per month to discuss this year’s Newbery finalists. Library staff will facilitate the sessions along with Nancy Baumann, a local educator and previous Newbery committee member. This is the fourth year that the library has offered this unique book club opportunity, and we hope that you will consider signing up.
How to get involved:
Sessions will be held from 4:30-5:30 p.m. at the Columbia Public Library on the following Wednesdays: September 9 and 23, October 7 and 21, November 4 and 18 and December 2 and 16. Registration begins Tuesday, September 1. To sign-up, please call (573) 443-3161.
This year’s books:
Wondering what books we’ll be discussing this year? See the list below!
- “The War That Saved My Life” by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
- “Circus Mirandus“ by Cassie Beasley
- “Echo“ by Pam Munoz Ryan
- “Handful of Stars“ by Cynthia Lord
- “Rhythm Ride“ by Andrea Davis Pinkney
- “The Marvels“ by Brian Selznick
