Recommended Resources: Best MG/YA Reads

Writers of KidLit are almost without fail readers of KidLit, and the Class of 2k8 debut authors are no exception. As if our TBR (to be read) piles weren't tall enough already, we can't wait to get our hands on more great YA and MG books. Where do we find them, you ask? Well besides the beloved treks through the shelves at our local independent book stores or consults with our favorite librarians, we also hit some great websites:


"A great place to find the best in children’s literature is The PlanetEsme Book-a-Day blog, run by the amazingly talented Esme Raji Codell. She blogs about picture books on up." Jenny Meyerhoff


Brooke Taylor & Liz Gallagher agree that Slayground, aka Little Willow, is a must check for great YA and MG books.

"The girl is a voracious reader, truly. She gives monthly favorites out of the gagillions of books she reads, and she even takes the time to break them down into categories -- from picture books on up. Some are spankin' new or pre-release, and some are gems from years past." Liz Gallagher

"After posting about a book I liked on Little Willow’s site, she immediately responded and had several personal suggestions. They were all amazing, right up my alley, and books I’d never heard of! I also consistently watch TeenReads and TeensReadToo for new books." Brooke Taylor

"I am a big fan of the teen bloggers like Another Book Read and Trainspotting Reads. I'm also a big fan of the Compulsive Reader and who doesn't love Book Chic? They all read a ton, write terrific reviews and have great taste in books." Daphne Grab

"I love to sample YA books through Dear Reader. Each week they feature a new book, and each day they email you a five-minute reading portion of that book." Jody Feldman

"Professor Nana, aka The Goddess of YA Literature, aka Teri, teaches library students about YA, middle grade, and kids' lit. She also writes books about books. And she reads a ton! And she shares what she reads! She's also a good person to live vicariously through when you don't make it to a conference." Liz Gallagher

"Flamingnet has won accolades for its reviews as well as its contributions to libraries nationwide. Good people." Debbie Reed Fischer

FYI: Class of 2K8 books Undone and Braless in Wonderland have both been honored the Flamingnet Top Choice Award! YAY!