are you up for a cybils challenge?

This past fall, I was thrilled and honored to be a part of the Cybils awards as a round one panelist for the Fiction Picture Book category.  I read a ton of new picture books, fell in love with so many of them, and was excited like crazy when our list of finalists was released.  I'm anxiously awaiting 2/14, not for a bouquet of roses or a chocolate heart, but for the announcement of the official winner!  (I've got my hopes pinned on one of those finalists... c'mon judges!!)  

My boss lady over at 5 Minutes for Books, Jennifer Donovan, was also an esteemed round one panelist, working in the Middle Grade Fiction category.  I know she was overwhelmingly pleased with the fabulous books she read in her role, too, and we're hoping to spread the joy with 5M4B's newly announced Cybils KidLit Challenge!

I'm not one to partake in book challenges typically, mostly because the vast majority of my reading has involved review books for the last two years.  BUT... how can I, or anyone who loves children's books, resist this opportunity?  I'm particularly happy that the challenge is somewhat open- a veritable choose your own adventure of challenges.  Jennifer's suggestions are great, and certainly not exclusive. 

Me?  My first inclination is to opt for what seems most straightforward- reading each of the 2010 Cybils winners, but I have to admit that the Graphic Novel and Sci-Fi/Fantasy categories are well outside my comfort zone... but, I'm willing to give it a try!

How about you?  Are you up to the Cybils KidLit Challenge?  Head over for the details, and get ready to read some Cybils nominated books!


Looking forward to reading some winners,