This was one of my favorite Cybils contenders in 2019 when I acted as a first round reader for the award. Wendy S. Swore has written a sensitive, special book about Sophie, who has a port wine birthmark that she considers “hideous,” and convinces this fairy-tale fan that she is some kind of a marked monster, that some evil fairy or evil stepmother has cast a curse on her and all those she cares for. This obsession becomes a psychological problem that dictates Sophie’s every thought and move. It is a moving, unforgettable book.
Emma Otheguy brings another 2019 publication, Silver Meadows Summer to tweens, especially artistically “gifted” young girls. Gabriella wants to be like her girlfriends, but her cousin, Carolina, who is a “country bumpkin” is staying the summer. Loyalties to friends and family are at stake.
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Author: Rae Longest
This year (2019) finds me with 50 plus years of teaching "under my belt." I have taught all levels from pre-K "(library lady" or "book lady"--volunteer) to juniors, seniors, and graduate students enrolled in my Advanced Writing class at the university where I have just completed 30 years. My first paying teaching job was junior high, and I spent 13 years with ages 12-13, the "difficult years." I had some of the "funnest" experiences with this age group. When I was no longer the "young, fun teacher," I taught in an elementary school setting before sixth graders went on to junior high, teaching language arts blocs, an assignment that was a "dream-fit" for me. After completing graduate school in my 40s, I went on to community college, then university teaching.
Just as teaching is "in my blood," so is a passion for reading, writing, libraries, and everything bookish.
This blog will be open to anyone who loves books, promotes literacy and wants to "come out and play."
View all posts by Rae Longest
powerfulwomenreaders 
One of the biggest surprises for me when I first judged the Cybils is how many great books get published but overlooked each year.
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