Not a disappointment in the bunch! Overall, a big thumbs up for the 2020 Newbery Books. In some ways, it seems like the #weneeddiversebooks call from a few years ago is finally coming of age and being answered in this year’s class. In addition to a wide variety of protagonists and issues, the formats are all over the map: graphic novel, picture book in verse, novel in verse, short stories grouped into an over-arching story. There is really only one “conventional” novel format among the group. Most are set in a contemporary setting. The outlier of the group is Scary Stories for Seven Foxes which is anthropomorphic in nature.
Didn’t really have a favorite among the group, but definitely no complaints. The chronic challenge of the Newbery awards remains: they generally are great reads, but are they reads that a middle grade reader would pull off of the shelf of their own volition?–Because there are no mysteries, no adventures, and no fantasy to be found (which are all popular genres with young readers). The most fantastical or adventurous in the lot is probably Scary Stories for Seven Foxes.
Click on book cover or title to see full book review.
2020 Newbery Winner
Format: Graphic Novel
New Kid is the 2020 Winner of the Newbery Medal–and a whole other slew of awards. Definitely a book worthy of the accolades it has received. It combines the hot format of graphic novel with timely issues and perspective.
Newbery Honor Book
The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander and Kadir Nelson
Format: Picture book in verse
Cue inspirational music and begin reading. This is a celebration of resilience and highlights heroes to be proud of.
Newbery Honor Book
Scary Stories for Young Foxes by Christian McKay Heidicker
Format: Related short stories in a single novel
Scary is accurate–so this book is not for the faint of heart. Really quite brilliant prose and writing. Two thumbs up.
Newbery Honor Book
Other Words for Home by Jasmine Warga
Format: Verse
This book, too, has first-rate writing and the pages fly by. An intimate look at the experience of a refugee.
Newbery Honor Book
Genesis Begins Again by Alicia D. Williams
Format: Contemporary novel
Complex themes in here, but themes that are quite relatable for many, many young readers. Learning to love yourself is a challenge for most.
