Amie Wright New York Public Library

amiewright@bookops.org

21st Century Children’s Nonfiction Conference

June 20-22, 2014

Making It to the Shelf: Getting on the Booklists, in Book Reviews, and More

Selection Supervisor MyLibraryNYC - a 5 borough, tri library system initiative with New York Public Library, Queens Library, and Brooklyn Public Library to bring library materials to 500+ K-12 NYC public schools.

Work to identify and purchase content for classroom and educational use throughout NYC.

Committee Member, Children’s Books 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing 2013 and 2014

First, a disclaimer….

My opinions are my own and do not reflect that of my employer or all public librarians. I say ‘we’...but it is really just me.

These are my anecdotal observations on what works - and doesn’t work - for nonfiction titles according to me and me alone. I cannot make any guarantees on either the usefulness of these observations, nor can I guarantee that if you follow these observations, all libraries (including my library) will purchase your materials.

All I can do is share best practices on what I have seen, what I like, and what I have seen students, teachers, and library patrons like….

What we love….

Titles with…..● strong visual elements that enhance the story. Whether they

are illustrations, graphics or primary sources. ● excellent use of text elements - different color fonts/text to

emphasize and stress points● lesser known stories or locations/unusual formats -

especially when they are combined!

Single biggest factor? Love. A reader can tell when you love your book, your sources, your inspirations - it comes through in the pages.

What we love….

Harlem Hellfighters - where history and poetry meet.

"A beautiful book that tells a truth that needs to be told. (Informational picture book. 10-16)" Kirkus starred review

What we don’t love….

Titles with…..● inconsistencies or historical inaccuracies - especially quotes● confusing/ineffective information or layout - including poor

use of text elements including too much text● well known stories told in conventional ways - without

illuminating lesser known aspects or without updating the story to include new research/relevance - why does this topic matter?

Single biggest offender? Interest - or lack there of. A reader needs to care and be excited by the topic - whatever the topic is.

Factors to consider

back matter matters - with a focus on evidence based learning, and an increase in trade books for instructional purpose

use primary sources creatively - to enhance the story

sidebars - use them creatively and strategically

quote wisely - remember, back matter matters!

research and editing - knowing when to stop and when to expand.

Questions?

Amie Wright / amiewright@bookops.org

All presentations from the 21st Century Nonfiction Conference on SlideShare: http://www.slideshare.net/aedwright/presentations