Discover the Best Books of 2016: School Library Journal's Top Picks for a Year of Literary Excellence

Discover the top picks of School Library Journal's Best Books 2016, featuring captivating stories and engaging characters that will inspire young minds.

The School Library Journal has released its list of the best books of 2016, and it is a treasure trove of literary gems for young readers. With over 70 titles selected across multiple categories, this year's list features some of the most exciting and thought-provoking books in children's literature. From picture books to young adult novels, the SLJ's list is a must-read for anyone interested in the latest and greatest in children's literature.

One standout category on the SLJ's list is nonfiction, which features an impressive range of topics. From biographies of iconic figures like Ada Lovelace and Jane Goodall to explorations of scientific phenomena like the human microbiome, these books are sure to inspire curiosity and spark a love of learning in young readers.

But it's not just nonfiction that shines on this year's list. The fiction selections are equally impressive, with stories that explore everything from family dynamics to cultural identity to the power of imagination. Whether your young reader is looking for a heartwarming tale or a gripping adventure, there's something on this list for everyone.

One of the most exciting things about this year's list is the diversity of voices represented. From authors of color to LGBTQ+ writers to those with disabilities, the SLJ's picks showcase a wide range of perspectives and experiences. These books offer a chance for young readers to see themselves reflected in literature and to gain understanding and empathy for those whose experiences may be different from their own.

Another standout feature of the SLJ's list is the quality of the illustrations. From intricate pencil drawings to vibrant watercolors, the artwork in these books is truly stunning. Readers of all ages will delight in poring over the pages and discovering new details in each illustration.

Of course, no list of the best books of the year would be complete without some controversy. Some readers may be surprised to see certain titles left off the list or may disagree with the SLJ's choices for certain categories. But that's the beauty of literature - it sparks conversation and debate, and encourages us to think critically about the stories we consume.

Ultimately, the School Library Journal's list of the best books of 2016 is a testament to the power of storytelling. These books have the ability to transport us to new worlds, to help us see the world in a different way, and to connect us to one another in profound ways. Whether you're a young reader or simply young at heart, there's something on this list to enchant and inspire you.

So what are you waiting for? Head to your local library or bookstore and pick up one (or several!) of the books on this list. You won't be disappointed.

Introduction

The School Library Journal Best Books 2016 list consists of books that were published in the year 2016 and are considered the best by the School Library Journal. The list includes books for all age groups, from picture books to young adult novels. These books are selected based on their literary merit, originality, and appeal to readers. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the books on this list.

Picture Books

They All Saw a Cat by Brendan Wenzel

This beautifully illustrated book shows how different animals see the same cat in different ways. It teaches children about perspective and how everyone sees things differently.

Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty

This charming book tells the story of a young girl who is passionate about science and asks questions about everything. It encourages children to be curious and to never stop asking questions.

Freedom in Congo Square by Carole Boston Weatherford

This powerful book tells the story of slaves in New Orleans who were allowed to gather in Congo Square on Sundays. It celebrates the resilience and strength of the human spirit.

Middle Grade

The Wild Robot by Peter Brown

This book tells the story of a robot who is stranded on an island and learns to survive in the wilderness. It teaches children about the importance of nature and the environment.

The Inquisitor's Tale: Or, The Three Magical Children and Their Holy Dog by Adam Gidwitz

This book tells the tale of three children who are believed to have magical powers and their faithful dog. It teaches children about the power of faith and the importance of friendship.

As Brave as You by Jason Reynolds

This book tells the story of two brothers who spend the summer with their grandparents in rural Virginia. It explores themes of family, identity, and growing up.

Young Adult

The Sun is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon

This book tells the story of two teenagers who meet and fall in love on the day before one of them is set to be deported. It explores themes of love, fate, and the immigrant experience.

The Serpent King by Jeff Zentner

This book tells the story of three friends who are trying to navigate life in a small Tennessee town. It explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and coming of age.

The Female of the Species by Mindy McGinnis

This book tells the story of a teenage girl who seeks revenge on those who have harmed her and others. It explores themes of justice, morality, and the consequences of our actions.

Conclusion

The School Library Journal Best Books 2016 list includes books that are sure to entertain and inspire readers of all ages. From picture books to young adult novels, these books explore a wide range of themes and ideas. They are sure to leave a lasting impression on readers and encourage them to keep reading and exploring the world around them.

Introduction to School Library Journal's Best Books of 2016

School Library Journal's Best Books of 2016 is a coveted list among librarians, teachers, parents, and avid readers. Every year, the editorial team at School Library Journal curates a selection of the most outstanding books for children and young adults published in the previous 12 months. The list covers a wide range of genres and formats, including picture books, middle grade novels, young adult (YA) fiction, non-fiction, and graphic novels. What makes these titles stand out is not only their literary merit but also their ability to engage, inspire, and challenge young readers.In this article, we will delve into the top picks for each category and highlight what makes them exceptional. We will also discuss the themes of diversity and representation that permeate many of these books, as well as some hidden gems that might have gone unnoticed. Finally, we will look ahead to what readers can expect from the Best Books of 2017.

Top picks for picture books in 2016

Picture books are often the first books that children encounter, and they play a crucial role in shaping their love for reading. In 2016, there were many outstanding picture books that stood out for their beautiful illustrations, imaginative storytelling, and emotional resonance.One of the top picks for picture books in 2016 was The Night Gardener by Terry Fan and Eric Fan. This book tells the story of a mysterious gardener who transforms a drab town into a lush wonderland with his topiary creations. The intricate illustrations and poetic text evoke a sense of wonder and magic that will enchant readers of all ages.Another standout picture book was Thunder Boy Jr. by Sherman Alexie and Yuyi Morales. This book tells the story of a young Native American boy who wants to find his own identity and break free from his father's shadow. The bold illustrations and candid voice make this book a powerful celebration of cultural diversity and individuality.

Middle grade novels that captivated readers in 2016

Middle grade novels are aimed at readers between the ages of 8 and 12, and they often deal with themes of friendship, family, and self-discovery. In 2016, there were many middle grade novels that captured readers' hearts and minds with their relatable characters and engaging plots.One of the most beloved middle grade novels of 2016 was Pax by Sara Pennypacker and Jon Klassen. This book tells the story of a boy named Peter who is forced to give up his pet fox, Pax, when his father enlists in the military. The alternating perspectives of Peter and Pax create a poignant and suspenseful narrative that explores the bond between humans and animals.Another standout middle grade novel was The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill. This book tells the story of a young girl named Luna who is raised by a witch in a world where magic is feared and misunderstood. The lyrical prose and intricate world-building make this book a true masterpiece of fantasy literature that will transport readers to a different realm.

Non-fiction titles that stood out in 2016

Non-fiction books can be just as engaging and informative as fiction, and in 2016, there were many non-fiction titles that stood out for their depth of research and clarity of writing.One of the most notable non-fiction books of 2016 was Some Writer!: The Story of E.B. White by Melissa Sweet. This book tells the story of the beloved author of Charlotte's Web and Stuart Little through an innovative blend of biography, memoir, and collage art. The result is a book that not only celebrates White's legacy but also inspires readers to pursue their own dreams of writing.Another standout non-fiction title was Sachiko: A Nagasaki Bomb Survivor's Story by Caren Stelson. This book tells the harrowing true story of a young girl who survived the atomic bombing of Nagasaki in 1945 and spent the rest of her life advocating for peace and nuclear disarmament. The detailed research and personal interviews make this book a powerful testimony to the human spirit in times of war and adversity.

Graphic novels that made a splash in 2016

Graphic novels are a unique art form that combines words and images to tell a story. In recent years, graphic novels have become increasingly popular among young readers, and in 2016, there were many graphic novels that stood out for their visual storytelling and diverse themes.One of the top graphic novels of 2016 was Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier. This book tells the story of two sisters who move to a new town and discover a town legend about ghosts who visit every year on the Day of the Dead. The vibrant and expressive artwork and the heartfelt exploration of family, friendship, and loss make this book a must-read for graphic novel fans.Another standout graphic novel was March: Book Three by John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell. This book is the final installment in a trilogy that chronicles the civil rights movement through the eyes of Congressman John Lewis. The powerful narrative and stark black-and-white illustrations make this book a landmark achievement in both graphic novels and social justice literature.

YA books that tackled tough topics in 2016

Young adult (YA) fiction is aimed at readers between the ages of 12 and 18, and it often deals with complex themes of identity, sexuality, mental health, and social justice. In 2016, there were many YA books that tackled tough topics with honesty, sensitivity, and nuance.One of the most talked-about YA books of 2016 was The Sun is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon. This book tells the story of two teenagers, Daniel and Natasha, who meet by chance on the streets of New York City and fall in love over the course of a single day. The book explores themes of immigration, family, and fate with a lyrical prose that will leave readers breathless.Another standout YA book was The Serpent King by Jeff Zentner. This book tells the story of three friends, Dill, Lydia, and Travis, who are struggling to find their place in a small town where expectations are low and dreams are hard to come by. The raw and authentic portrayal of poverty, abuse, and friendship make this book a powerful and unforgettable read.

Diversity and representation in the best books of 2016

One of the most notable trends in the Best Books of 2016 was the emphasis on diversity and representation. Many of the books on the list featured characters from marginalized communities and explored issues of race, gender, sexuality, and disability with sensitivity and authenticity.For example, The Boy at the Top of the Mountain by John Boyne deals with the legacy of the Nazi regime through the eyes of a young German boy who becomes a servant to Hitler. The book raises important questions about the nature of evil, the power of propaganda, and the responsibility of individuals to resist tyranny.Similarly, When the Moon Was Ours by Anna-Marie McLemore tells the story of two teenagers, Samir and Miel, who are navigating their gender identities and cultural heritage while living in a small town where prejudice and superstition run deep. The magical realism and poetic language create a dreamlike atmosphere that will enchant readers while also challenging their assumptions about gender and sexuality.

Award-winning titles from 2016

Many of the books on the Best Books of 2016 list also received critical acclaim and prestigious awards. For example, The Inquisitor's Tale: Or, The Three Magical Children and Their Holy Dog by Adam Gidwitz won the Newbery Honor, the Sydney Taylor Book Award, and the National Jewish Book Award. This book tells the story of three children with mystical powers who embark on a quest to save a holy text from destruction during the medieval era.Another award-winning title was Freedom Over Me: Eleven Slaves, Their Lives and Dreams Brought to Life by Ashley Bryan, which won the Coretta Scott King Author Award and the Newbery Honor. This book uses original slave documents to imagine the lives and aspirations of 11 enslaved individuals who were denied their freedom and dignity.

Hidden gems of 2016: under-the-radar books that deserve recognition

While many of the books on the Best Books of 2016 list were widely read and celebrated, there were also some under-the-radar books that deserve recognition for their quality and originality.One such book is Hour of the Bees by Lindsay Eagar. This book tells the story of a young girl named Carolina who is sent to spend the summer with her estranged grandfather in a remote desert town. The book explores themes of family, memory, and environmentalism with a unique blend of magical realism and contemporary issues.Another hidden gem is The Memory of Things by Gae Polisner. This book tells the story of two teenagers, Kyle and Lucy, who are caught in the chaos of 9/11 and find solace in each other's company. The book captures the raw emotions and confusion of that fateful day with sensitivity and grace.

Looking ahead: what to expect from the best books of 2017

As we look ahead to the Best Books of 2017, there are already some titles that have generated buzz and anticipation among readers and critics alike. One such book is The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas, which explores the aftermath of a police shooting of an unarmed black teenager through the eyes of his friend, Starr. The book has been praised for its timely and urgent message about racial injustice and police brutality.Another highly anticipated book is Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds, which tells the story of a young boy named Will who is seeking revenge for his brother's murder while riding an elevator down to the street. The book is written in verse and tackles themes of gun violence, grief, and redemption with a powerful and unflinching voice.In conclusion, the Best Books of 2016 was a rich and diverse selection of books that showcased the best of children's and young adult literature. From picture books to non-fiction, graphic novels to YA fiction, these books will continue to inspire and delight readers of all ages for years to come.

School Library Journal Best Books 2016

Point of View

As a librarian, I believe that School Library Journal's Best Books 2016 list is an excellent resource for selecting quality literature for school libraries. The list includes books from a variety of genres and age groups, making it easy to find books that will appeal to all students. The reviews provided by SLJ are also helpful in determining the suitability of a particular book for a school library.

Pros

Wide selection of books from different genres and age groups
Reviews provide insight into the suitability of a book for school libraries
Helps librarians keep up-to-date with current trends in literature
Offers a comprehensive guide for selecting quality literature for school libraries

Cons

May not include all books that would be suitable for a particular school's library
Selection may not always align with the values or preferences of a particular school or community
Reviews may be biased or influenced by personal opinions of reviewers
May not include books that were published later in the year

Comparison of Keywords

Keyword	School Library Journal Best Books 2016	School Libraries
Selection	Curated list of quality literature from various genres and age groups	Collection of books available for students to borrow
Suitability	Reviews help determine if a book is appropriate for school libraries	Librarians must evaluate the suitability of books based on school policies and community values
Access	Books may need to be purchased or borrowed from other libraries	Books are available for students to borrow from the school library
Benefits	Helps librarians select quality literature for their libraries	Provides students with access to a variety of books for educational and personal development

In conclusion, School Library Journal's Best Books 2016 list is a valuable resource for librarians in selecting quality literature for school libraries. While there are some potential drawbacks to relying solely on this list, it is a helpful tool in staying current with trends in literature and ensuring that school libraries offer a wide selection of books that will appeal to all students.

Closing Message: School Library Journal Best Books 2016

Thank you for taking the time to read through our School Library Journal Best Books of 2016 article. We hope that you found it informative and helpful in choosing new titles to add to your library's collection. As librarians ourselves, we understand the importance of providing diverse and captivating books that engage students and encourage a love of reading.

Our team worked tirelessly to compile a list of the best books published in 2016, covering a range of genres and age groups. We believe that every book on this list has the potential to inspire and educate young readers, and we encourage you to make them available in your library.

One of the key themes that emerged from our selections this year was the importance of diversity in children's literature. We made a concerted effort to include books that represent diverse cultures and perspectives, as well as books that feature characters with disabilities and LGBTQ+ identities. We believe that it is essential for children to see themselves and their experiences reflected in the books they read, and we hope that our list will help promote inclusivity and empathy in your school community.

Another trend that we noticed in 2016 was the rise of graphic novels and comics for children and young adults. Many of the titles on our list fall into this category, and we believe that this format has great potential to engage reluctant readers and visual learners. Graphic novels can also be a valuable tool for teaching critical literacy skills, as they require readers to interpret both the text and the images on the page.

Of course, we also included many traditional prose novels on our list, ranging from picture books to young adult fiction. We believe that there is still great value in reading and sharing stories that are told entirely through words, and we hope that our selections will help foster a love of language and storytelling in your students.

As you peruse our list, we encourage you to keep in mind the unique needs and interests of your school's community. Not every book will be the right fit for every reader, and it is important to choose titles that will resonate with your students and support your curriculum. We hope that our list will serve as a starting point for your own exploration of the best children's and young adult literature of 2016.

We also want to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the authors, illustrators, editors, and publishers who brought these books to life. Without their creativity and passion, the world of children's literature would be much less vibrant and exciting. We hope that our list will help bring attention to their important contributions to the field.

Finally, we want to thank you for your continued commitment to promoting literacy and learning in your school community. As librarians, we know that you play a vital role in shaping the minds and hearts of the next generation, and we are honored to be a part of that work. We hope that our School Library Journal Best Books of 2016 list will help you in your mission to provide the best possible resources for your students.

Thank you again for reading, and happy reading to you and your students!

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