I do not care one bit about March Madness (let the stone throwing begin).
But when School Library Journal hosts a Children/YA book tournament where you can fill out a bracket? I’m there. I’m all there. (You can view the bracket in PDF form).
All the books are from last year (generally ones that were pretty popular), and the judging is done by authors or editors, including John Green, Linda Sue Park, Nancy Werlin, and, for the final round, Lois Lowry. Very cool.
The first round starts next week, so I’m making my predictions now:
The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume II: The Kingdom on the Waves versus Ways To Live Forever. I vote for Octavian Nothing, even though I haven’t read it. I know it’s been massively popular and Ways to Live Forever is sweet-ish, but I don’t think will be able to stand against the hulk of Octavian.
The Graveyard Book versus The Trouble Begins at 8. I vote for The Trouble Begins at 8. The Graveyard Book is creepy and clever, but I’m putting my bets on the fact that the judge, Jon Scieszka, will be swayed by the antics of the always awesome Mark Twain.
Chains versus Washington at Valley Forge. Haven’t read or even HEARD of the Washington book. Must vote for Chains.
Here Lies Arthur versus Tender Morsels. Two I haven’t read. Here Lies Arthur sounds awesome while Tender Morsels sounds. . . horrifying.
The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks versus We Are the Ship. I’m sorry, We Are the Ship; I think you’re awesome. But there is absolutely no way I could vote for you over Frankie. My beloved Frankie.
The Hunger Games versus The Porcupine Year. Duh, The Hunger Games. I mean, really.
Graceling versus The Underneath. Tamora Pierce is the judge for this one and, as a fantasy writer, I’m guessing she’ll go for Graceling. Also, I don’t think the weirdness of The Underneath can stand up to the mostly-awesomeness of Graceling.
The Lincolns versus Nation. Ooh, this is probably the toughest one for me. I think I’m going to vote for Nation. It made me weep a little at the end.
In a few days, I’ll put up my Round Two predictions. Are these some awesome guesses or did I make some lousy picks? What do you think will win in these match-ups?
Mari says
What a neat idea. Can’t wait to see who comes out the winner. 🙂
Lexiloo says
Oh how fun! I didn’t know about this, but I’ll have to keep an eye on it!
PS. No stones from me…I could care less about NCAA too!
diana banana says
i was going to ask you…how long do you think you have gone without reading a book? either by putting one down and not picking it up again for a while, or finishing one and not starting another right away. i’m curious.
Okie says
Fabulous idea and some great picks. I might have to go setup a bracket. 🙂
Kimberly says
This is pretty awesome (but not as awesome as basketball – although, what is? Nothing), and if I were a judge, I’d pick Frankie to win it all.
emandtrev says
Very fun idea! I think I will bring this idea, and point to your blog address, at my book club tonight!!
Whitney says
I love how so many things have taken on the “bracket” idea, I think it’s fun. Good luck, I hope you win! 😀