Creating a Short List

For our in-person discussion on January 17, we will work off a short list of suggested titles. Which books would you like to see included? Do you have any titles that have been missed?

Our deadline for the creation of the short list: November 30.

Splitsville by Shelia Goss

Abstract: The Diva's creed (All for one, one for all; never let the other fall) is back in full effect now that Jasmine and Sierra are no longer fighting for the attention of DJ Johnson--and it's a good thing, because the girls need each other now more than ever.







Publisher: Urban Renaissance, 280 pages

Rich by Nikki Grimes, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie

Abstract: Dyamonde Daniel is excited about the local library’s poetry contest, and so is her friend Free. The prize is one hundred dollars—just think what they could buy with that much money! But when they find out that Damaris, one of their classmates, has been living in a homeless shelter, their ideas about what it means to be rich or poor start to change. And when they get to know Damaris, they realize the one who could use the prize money the most also happens to be the best poet in class.


Publisher: Putnam's Sons, 96 pages

Sweethearts of Rhythm by Marilyn Nelson, illustrated by Jerry Pinkney

Abstract: In the 1940s, as the world was at war, an all-female jazz band performed on the American home front. They dared to be an interracial group despite the cruelties of Jim Crow laws, and they dared to assert their talents though they were women in a “man’s” profession.


Publisher: Dial, 80 pages.

Looking Like Me by Walter Dean Myers, illustrated by Christopher Myers

Abstract: This jumping, jazzy, joyful picture book celebrates every child, and every thing that child can be.




Publisher: Egmont, 32 pages.

I Am Barack Obama by Charisse Carney-Nunes, illustrated by Ann Marie Williams

Abstract: I Am Barack Obama is not a book about Barack Obama. Rather, it allows children to see themselves through the inspirational story of President Obama growing up as an ordinary child asking, “Who will change the world?”





Publisher: Brand Nu Words, 36 pages

Olu's Dream written and illustrated by Shane Evans

Abstract: It's time for bed, but Olu would rather play than sleep. When he finally drifts off, Olu discovers he's at the wheel of an extraordinary adventure.






Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books, 40 pages