Geez, some of these headlines are a mouthful. MG stands for Middle Grade and YA for Young Adult, for those of us without an MLS degree. This category has been a black hole for organizers and we tend to lose them at a tragic rate. Fortunately, it’s always been staffed by wonderful volunteers who can be counted on to …
Bookmarks update
Thanks to all who ordered bookmarks. The next batch is slated to ship from the printer on Oct. 3rd and I should have them about 5 days after that. If you haven't already ordered yours, you've obviously still got time! The bookmarks list our 2010 winners in all genres. Shoot me an email at anne (at) inlandempress (dot) com if …
The 2011 Fiction Picture Book Judges
This category is a perennial favorite, but don't let the 32-page limit and all those pretty pictures fool you. It takes a sharp eye and a sharper mind to appreciate how text and illustration work together to create a singular experience for a child (or parent). We're pleased that a number of newcomers to the Cybils are among this year's …
The 2011 NFPB Judges
Erm, that stands for Nonfiction Picture Books, which is rather long to fit in a headline. This year's batch is lead by Fiona Bayrock, herself a nonfiction author. Due to a mistake, this list was accidentally published to Facebook first. This is the correct list. Sorry for the owie. Round One Fiona Bayrock Books and 'Rocks Janssen Bradshaw Everyday Reading …
The 2011 Book Apps Judges
Our newest category is also one of our most exciting. Judges will be looking at book apps that marry the ages-old art of storytelling with emerging technology. Round 1: Jeff BargerNC Teacher Stuff Sara BryceBryce Don’t Play Nicole KesslerNicole’s Book Nook Carisa KluverDigital Media Diet Tasha SaeckerWaking Brain Cells Melissa TaylorImagination Soup Sylvia VardellPoetryforChildren Round 2: Alyson BeecherKidLitFrenzy Kate HannigandotMomming …
Judges Start Posting Tomorrow
A lot of people are waiting breathlessly for the lists of judges. I just wanted to send a quick update to say we're still waiting for YA and Fantasy/SF. Both drew a record number of applicants and I think everyone should feel comfortable with the idea that the selection process is at least thorough, if not particularly speedy. So we …
Join us October 1st through the 15th!
October is around the corner, and that means one thing. No, not pumpkin carving. Okay, two things. No, not Halloween either. So that's three things. Apple cider and donuts! The smell of raked leaves! Enough candy to rot every tooth in America! No, none of those things. Drat my New England upbringing. October means a lot of stuff, now that …
Building a Better Book Blog
As of this writing, the Cybils judging panels are nearly complete, with just Young Adult Fiction and Science Fiction/Fantasy still up in the air. Many of you have already gotten a "can't wait to work with you email" from an organizer. Many more have or are about to get a "thanks for playing" email instead. Which, by the way, made …
KidLit Con 2011
Yes, that is your Cybils Overlord with superstar author Scott Westerfeld. Note that he is not only totally hot but that he is touching me. I was touched by Scott Westerfeld. Me. I did indeed wash that shoulder, but only because I had visual proof right here that he touched me. Did I mention that Scott Westerfeld actually touched …
Meet Anne Levy, Cybils Overlord
Oh, I give up. I've called myself the Cybils Editor, Cybils Sherpa, Cybils Admin. It doesn't matter. Every year, more than 100 bloggers give up any semblence of free time to become my minion for several months. For the organizers, it's a full six months. So I may as well wear my "overlord" mantel with pride while I perfect my …