The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2017 Edition from the Bank Street Children's Book Committee

On Thursday, April 6, 2017, the Children's Book Committee of Bank Street College held it annual awards ceremony. And despite the heavy rain, it was a wonderful turnout. Authors, illustrators, and editors were all there to accept this years awards for their excellent books. To learn more about these books, see my post of February 4, 2017.

If you weren't able to come to the awards ceremony, you can watch it on Kidlit TV Here

Not only were awards given out, but, once again, the Children's Book Committee has issued their best books guide for parents, teachers, librarians, and everyone else with in interest in children and children's books. Included in the guide are the more than 600 books published in 2016 that have been read by at least two committee members and were found to meet the committee's strict criteria:

"In choosing books for the annual list, reviewers consider literary quality and excellence of presentation as well as the potential emotional impact of the books on young readers. Other criteria include credibility of characterization and plot, authenticity of time and place, age suitability, positive treatment of ethnic and religious differences, and the absence of stereotypes."

You can learn even more about the committee's Review Guidelines HERE

So, curious to know what this year's best books are?

Well, you can access an online PDF version of the list separated by age on the Best Books of the Year website. Book are categorized within each age group, making it easier to find the kind of book you are interested in.

Or you may purchase a print edition by contacting the book committee at bookcom@bankstreet.edu The cost is $10.00 + $3.00 shipping (and well worth it)

Now, it's back to reading since 2018 will be here before you know it.