The Middle-Grade and Young Adult Fiction categories comprise books that are grounded in reality. The world as it was or is: contemporary or historical, funny or mysterious, romantic or adventurous, sport-centric or coming of age. These are the stories that nudge readers to self-discovery, open windows to others' experiences, and let them see the world. It's pain, its flaws, its joy, and its beauty.
These judges will be looking for those titles that kids can't stop talking about and, with great enthusiasm (and maybe a little drama) give to a friend and say, “You HAVE to read this.”
Be sure to click the links to see where our judges post their reviews!
... and don't hesitate to follow them on social media.
MIDDLE-GRADE FICTION
CHAIR: Melissa Fox
R2: Finalist > Winner
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Eti Berland, In the Key of Books
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Amanda MacGregor, Teen Librarian Toolbox
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Janice Penner, on Edelweiss
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Beth Schmelzer, Best Books by Beth
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Amy Sutton, @amyreadsbooks
R1: Nomination > Finalist
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Melissa Fox, Chair, The Book Nut
- Jessica Harrison, Cracking the Cover
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Susan Jensen, Bloggin' 'bout Books
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Kate Mccue-Day, @mrsmccueday
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Cindy Mitchell, Kiss the Book
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Gabrielle Plastrik, @GPlastrik
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Amanda Sealy, @sealycrew
ROUND 2
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Lauren DelGaizo, Goodreads
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Deborah Khuanghlawn, @debreadsalot
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Katy Manck, Books YA Love
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Hailey McKinney, Goodreads
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Elizabeth Woodruff, Goodreads
R1: Nomination > Finalist
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Christopher Helton, Chair
Plucked from the Stacks -
Gina Adams, @gsreadingspree
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Tahira Ahmad, Black Caucus, ALA
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Erin Conway, Erin Conway
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Laura Cooper, Writer's Rumpus
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Sue Gerth, The Bookalicious Babe
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Deborah Zeman, @z_brarian