Dear 2013 Newbery Committee,
Thank you for coming to consensus that The One and Only Ivan embodies those qualities. I know the word distinguished pops into my head whenever someone mentions Ivan.
I hope the next week is dedicated to catching up on your favorite television series, spending quality time with friends and family, and feeling proud that you selected a timeless book that will be passed down from one generation to the next.
Thank you for spending your Newbery term searching for the most distinguished contribution to children's literature. I bet you can recite this part of the John Newbery Award Selection Committee Manual in your sleep: distinguished is defined as:
• Marked by eminence and distinction; noted for significant achievement.
• Marked by excellence in quality.
• Marked by conspicuous excellence or eminence.
• Individually distinct.
Thank you for coming to consensus that The One and Only Ivan embodies those qualities. I know the word distinguished pops into my head whenever someone mentions Ivan.
I hope the next week is dedicated to catching up on your favorite television series, spending quality time with friends and family, and feeling proud that you selected a timeless book that will be passed down from one generation to the next.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I'm sending you virtual hugs and a standing ovation.
-John
P.S. I was the guy in the convention center with tears streaming down his face. Tears, tears, tears. I kept wishing the real Ivan were still alive to hear the news.
The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
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Three Times Lucky by Sheila Turnage
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Bomb by Steve Sheinkin
Head on over to TeachingBooks.net to hear this great introduction to Bomb.
I am giving away a copy of The One and Only Ivan.
Rules for the Giveaway
1. It will run from 1/29 to 11:59 p.m. on 2/1.
2. You must be at least 13.
3. Please pay it forward.
