Book reviews will begin to make up an increasingly substantial portion of this blog. Like many of my colleagues, I believe doing my job well means keeping abreast of the sorts of books that are out there for a wide variety of young readers. As a result, I review as much as I can in the time that I have. I pretty much review copies of books from two places: professional conferences and (to a lesser extent) sites like Edelweiss and NetGalley. I am making a valiant effort to read all the review copies I receive, but occasionally my other professional commitments keep me from reading everything. That said, if I tell you I will read a book—for publicity events, book release blog tours, etc.—I will read it.
If you are interested in sending me books to review, please keep a few things in mind:
- I enjoy reading juvenile fiction from picture books right through young adult titles. This includes titles in a graphic novel format. I am particularly fond of moving up and middle grade fiction, but I try to read omnivorously.
- As far as non-fiction is concerned, I strive to look at titles appropriate for children through grade 6. I am particularly partial to non-fiction picture books and biographies. Series non-fiction takes a lot more time to review, so I am a lot less likely to be able to get to it.
- I do not review, and thus cannot accept at this time, adult books or self-published/vanity press titles.
- All physical review copies (i.e., not digital) see continued life after I read and review them. I will share them with colleagues who are interested in reviewing the title, often for professional organizations, or I may see that they are used as reading incentives for young readers.
- I cannot guarantee a positive review. I am, however, not interested in propagating negativity for negativity's sake, so if I do not enjoy a title or think young readers will enjoy it, I will not write about it here. I am happy to send constructive criticism to those who provide review copies as requested.
I am glad to accept books to review at any stage, from galleys and ARCs to published titles. If you are interested in sending me a book to review, please e-mail me. Also, feel free to mention if you'd like me to post a review around a certain time (e.g., release date, blog tour, etc.); I will do my best to accommodate.
Many thanks to Amy Koester, from whom much of this review policy was directly borrowed. Like, directly borrowed. Her Show Me Librarian blog is an excellent resource for all things children’s services, especially her super-awesome science programming!
UPDATED MARCH 2013
