When judging writing for middle grade and young adults, I'm always looking closely at voice, one that not only renders the emotional power of the story, but also a voice that will resonate with young readers. This work has that and so much more.
"The Girl in The Window" by Jess Rinker is stunning. Each chapter begins with a statement where the young protagonist equates herself with an inanimate object as she's dragged back and forth amid the landmines of her family's life with an abusive father. The language is gorgeous, softening Lydia's difficult tale and lending a beauty to her quest for survival. All the characters are carefully drawn in all their flawed glory, and the reader finds themself pulled forward as if they too are an object in the writer's masterful hand.
"Don't Call the Wolf from the Woods" is excellent. The author skillfully weaves this piece of historical fiction in a way that will grab readers from the first paragraph, making this tale of grief, trauma and loss during World War II relatable and accessible to a modern readership.
Judging the entries for this year's Katherine Paterson Prize was challenging as there were so many strong pieces submitted. Congratulations to the winners!
