In May 2007, the faculty book club that the author facilitates read Chris Bohjalian's novel "The Double Bind" (Shaye Areheart: Harmony, 2007). Bohjalian, a local author, agreed to meet them in Burlington for drinks and conversation. When he arrived, the author and her class introduced themselves, passed around some nachos, and began their…

Just when one thinks every topic has been covered to the fullest, somehow, talented writers, creative artists, and forward-thinking editors come up with new takes and fresh angles. This is particularly true of the books selected as the best of 2009. The hallmarks of the nonfiction this year include some unusual scientists, from two brothers who…

Just a couple of years ago, it was tough to find good graphic novels for the K-4 crowd. Sure, there were some standout selections, such as Andy Runton's "Owly", Jimmy Gownley's "Amelia Rules!", and Jennifer and Matt Holm's "Babymouse", but they were lonely exceptions in a barren landscape. Things quickly changed when publishers realized that the…

One lousy starred review. That was all, initially, that Susan Patron had to show for the 10 years she spent writing "The Higher Power of Lucky," her funny, tender story of a little girl struggling to gain control over her life. One star, from "Kirkus Reviews," for the heart and soul Patron poured into her second novel. Positive notices had…

The new books for the 1973 Christmas season give this reviewer little cause for celebration. (14 references) (Author/SJ)

The restrictions on teen fiction result in books that succeed only in mirroring a slick surface realism that too often acts as a cover-up. It disguises the fact that, at their core, most realistic novels are unrealistic and, far worse, dishonest. (Author)

General observations on childrens' book reviewing. (PF)

A line up of children's books in paperback for fall and early 1972 is presented. (Author)

Selected by the editors of School Library Journal Book Review. (Author)

The book is a difficult medium to use to communicate information about an art that is not only visual but mobile. This article reviews childrens dance books that succeed in this difficult means of communication. (38 references) (Author/SJ)

Asserts the value of booktalks in the work of young adult librarians and gives guidelines for preparing and conducting a booktalk. (PF)

Discusses biographies written for young adults and describes problems with inferior writing in many of them. Examples of both good and bad biographies are given, and problems highlighted include unimportant details, a failure to make facts interesting, an absence of personal information, and an emphasis on neutrality from fear of bias. (LRW)