11.05.2007

Little, Brown Spring 2008 Preview: Day One

As I said in yesterday's post, you're getting an update each day - a different editor each day. So this here is Day One. (Note: I apologize for the lack of up-to-date cover art for the titles mentioned - they just aren't available yet. I've included links where possible).

First up at our table was Nancy. Unfortunately, her last name has escaped me but, no matter, because all you need to know is that she’s one of the most gorgeous editors you’ll meet. And as sweet as can be.

She started her presentation with Suddenly Supernatural: School Spirit by Elizabeth Cody Kimmel (of Lily B fame). The main character’s mom is a supernatural medium and then the girl (Kat) realizes that she also has the power. The book is about friendships and mother-and-daughter relationships. A sequel is also planned, Scaredy Kat, due out next season.

We were also told about a novel by Alan Madison, 100 Days, 99 Nights, which is about a father who goes on a tour-of-duty, leaving a family behind. This is Alan Madison's first novel, though he is a prolific picture book author (Velma Gratch and the Way Cool Butterfly is one of my sentimental favorites of 2007). In this book, Iraq isn’t specifically named, though the war is taking place in a desert. Nancy stressed that it wasn’t political, and the illustrations intentionally have a very timeless, warm, endearing feeling to them. The book is recommended for ages 8-12, though it could go as low as 7. It will be interesting to see how this title does; while it looked really gorgeous – I just adored the illustrations – I’m thinking the audience could be rather limited.

Nancy also presented an ultra-cool-looking YA book called Ghostgirl by Tonya Hurley, a debut novelist. It was described as a mix of Heathers and Mean Girls, which automatically pricked up my ears. Underneath that, though, it’s “about being invisible and wanting people to notice you.” Awwww. Before it was a book, it was a website – Ghostgirl – so check that out.

Lastly, Nancy presented the sequel to The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart, The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Perilous Journey! This is going to make some kids very happy.

PUB DATES: Suddenly Supernatural - 6.08, 100 Days, 99 Nights - 5.08, Ghostgirl – 8.08, Perilous Journey – 5.08

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