Conclusion
The creation of this website led to a deep exploration of literary and artistic elements in children’s literature. Between the five members of our team, hundreds of books were considered. The process illuminated the wide spectrum of genres, themes, and styles available in children’s publishing. It also revealed the gaps that still need to be filled in order for all children to hear their own stories in books.
Although the criteria we set for ourselves provided guidance in selecting titles, we realized that the criteria itself was somewhat generated by elements of books we were inherently drawn to. We often found ourselves choosing books initially because they were well loved by children in our lives, then we figured out what elements made them successful. In this way, our choices were driven by preference as well as by evaluation. As Angela Flock noted, “I looked at our checklist, and it informed my decisions, but I also know that I wanted to be somewhat inspired by my choices, as well. I wanted to feel the nudge on my heart, whispering something like, ‘Pick this one.’"
Several trends emerged in regards to literature for children. First, we observed that large presses published most of the award-winning books. Second, the books included in our biography category represented a wide range of cultures. Finally, we noticed that friendship was a common theme among books for young children.
Our goal with the Top 100 blog was to create a reader’s advisory resource, which will be useful to us now and in the future. Through research, collaboration, and communication, we have successfully produced a functional tool that is easy to use and efficient. The selection process led to the discovery of many wonderful books and several that were not to our standards, which were obviously not included. The reviewing process honed our evaluation skills. We also gained technology skills and learned a new website platform, which will be useful on the job and for future coursework.
We unanimously appreciate the thoughtful and diligent work of fellow team members. Communication was excellent throughout the project and many poignant discussions enhanced our overall understanding and appreciation of books for young children.
Although the criteria we set for ourselves provided guidance in selecting titles, we realized that the criteria itself was somewhat generated by elements of books we were inherently drawn to. We often found ourselves choosing books initially because they were well loved by children in our lives, then we figured out what elements made them successful. In this way, our choices were driven by preference as well as by evaluation. As Angela Flock noted, “I looked at our checklist, and it informed my decisions, but I also know that I wanted to be somewhat inspired by my choices, as well. I wanted to feel the nudge on my heart, whispering something like, ‘Pick this one.’"
Several trends emerged in regards to literature for children. First, we observed that large presses published most of the award-winning books. Second, the books included in our biography category represented a wide range of cultures. Finally, we noticed that friendship was a common theme among books for young children.
Our goal with the Top 100 blog was to create a reader’s advisory resource, which will be useful to us now and in the future. Through research, collaboration, and communication, we have successfully produced a functional tool that is easy to use and efficient. The selection process led to the discovery of many wonderful books and several that were not to our standards, which were obviously not included. The reviewing process honed our evaluation skills. We also gained technology skills and learned a new website platform, which will be useful on the job and for future coursework.
We unanimously appreciate the thoughtful and diligent work of fellow team members. Communication was excellent throughout the project and many poignant discussions enhanced our overall understanding and appreciation of books for young children.