I was moderately interested this morning when the newscasters, with bated breath, announced the Academy Award nominations this year.  But give me some Caldecott, Newbery, Coretta Scott King, Schneider Family, Pura Belpre, and Printz Awards action (not to mention all the other amazing awards)?  I’m all over it! 

Why do I get so excited?  Partly because I know people who have served on committees, and I have some idea of the level of time, intention, commitment, consideration, thought, and deep discussion that have gone into the selection of the winners.  Partly because I know it draws attention to literature for young people in a way that is special and unusual.  Partly because it often celebrates books I’ve appreciated, but also lets me know about books I’ve somehow missed over the course of the past year.  All of this combines to a thrilling time when those announcements are made!

And thanks to the wonders of modern technology and the sponsorship of Baker and Taylor, you can watch a live webcast of the announcements!  Mark your calendar for Monday, January 28 at 10 am and tune in to be inspired about the books we get to promote and share with kids and families.