Best of 2010

Best Picture Book of the Year? I say so. A wonderful and honest story about patience,
anxiety and comfort with exceptional illustrations. As a young boy waits for his mother to get ready to run errands, he imagines what it might be like to go outside alone. Feeling grown-up, his mind lures him into an urban den of wolves. When accompanied by his mother, on the other hand, those wolves seem more like smoke in mirrors. Best for ages 3-5.

Here's what one of our "Kid Critic" families had to say: Our whole family already has this fantastic book memorized. We thought it was worth a group review -- each kid has an attribution for their bit: It was funny because it showed what the baby thought was real -- babies really do think they're the boss! - David, 10. I loved the part where he picked up the thingy that's like a phone and called a meeting. - Zoe, 5. I loved how he thought he looked like a boss, carrying a briefcase half as big as him - Lizzie, 8. Mine! -Ben, 2

Anthony Browne is clearly a genius. His picture book talents seem limitless. This is Goldilocks like you've never seen her before. Browne's new perspectives on the story are layered and enchanted. The lore and urban setting will change you're imaginings forever. Best for ages 2-6

This fictional account of Carrie and her friend Zora (Neale Hurston) is a wonderful romp through the childhood of a literary great. The novel does immense justice to the complexities of race, community, family ties, and local legend. Zora's imagination shines and this book is sure to be a fall favorite, award winner and educational tool. Best for ages 9 *11, and adult.

Rhodes pays tribute to the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, the breaking of the levees, and the New Orleans spirit in this upcoming novel. She doesn't talk down to young readers, as she describes the harrowing experience of a fictionalized, yet strikingly accurate account of a young girl and her fortitude during our country's most recent natural and shameful disaster. Heavy with humidity and southern lore, we recommend this book for readers age 9 & up, and all educators.

One of our teen critics, Jen (age 17), had this review of The Mockingbirds: "In My Own Words: The Mockingbirds chronicles the decisions Alex, a student at a prestigious boarding school, takes after she is date raped. Since the school frowns upon indications that the students are even slightly unpleasant, Alex takes her plight to the mockingbirds, a secret student-run justice group. As Alex slowly begins to remember more of the circumstances surrounding her rape, she becomes more certain that the path she has chosen is right. This story is entrancingly told, and it was impossible for me to put this book down. I highly recommend this book to older teen readers."

An excellent treatment of "coming home" after military service in the Middle East, from the perspective of a younger, teenage brother. Reinhardt explores the world of contemporary young men and brotherhood, in this original, yet increasingly familiar story. Important ideas about family, country, duty, generational expectations, and how our experiences can change us are among the many important topics that are made accessible through the engaging teen characters. Best for ages 12 & up.

Teen steam-punk by a YA great. Excellent Darwin-based discussions of organic vs. mechanic and a fun fast-paced plot. Best for ages 12 & up.

Another stand-out early reader. This collection of stories about the antics and experiences of mischievous and adorable Anna, her twin baby brothers Double and Trouble, and her whole great big loving family with whimsical illustrations make it perfect for those just getting ready for chapter books. Best for ages 6-8.

Somewhere between graphic novel and illustrated book, this book is one of the most unique and imaginative I've seen this year. The basic story is simple: a boy learns of his father*s death, but Harvey*s world is rich and delicate. It feels a bit like reading straight into a dream and definitely warrants more than one read. Best for ages 11 & up.