Each year, the International Reading Association's Children's Literature and Reading Special Interest Group (CL/R SIG) names our Notable Books for a Global Society (NBGS). The 25 books selected this year honor and celebrate diversity as well as common bonds in humanity; provide in-depth treatment of cultural issues; include characters within a cultural group or between cultural groups who interact substantive and authentically; include members of a “minority” group for a purpose other than filling a “quota;” invite reflection, critical analysis, and response; demonstrate unique language or style; meet generally-accepted criteria of quality for the genre in which they are written; have an appealing format; and are of enduring quality.

The NBGS Committee includes Alma Flor Ada (Chair), Janet Wong (Co-Chair), Jenn Sanders (Immediate Past Chair and Advisor), Lettie K. Albright, Beverly V. Hock, Prisca Martens, Sue Christian Parsons, Diane Sekeres, Kathy Short, and Susan Van Zile.

Karen Hildebrand (Ohio library and reading consultant, CL/R SIG member, and Reading Today Online book review contributor) created this informative and inspiring PowerPoint presentation about  the award-winning books and the CL/R SIG's selection process. We hope you enjoy this slideshow and share it with others interested in books that promote diversity, community, and cultural acceptance.

For more information, see the NBGS section of the CL/R SIG website.