While reading through the Rosemary Chance textbook, Young Adult Literature in Action: A Librarian’s Guide I found many great suggestions for information and historical fiction books. The two main criteria suggested for selecting and evaluating these types of books included using standard selection tools for reviews and staying current with the award winning books. I agree with Chance about using these two main criteria for evaluation. I also think that young adults should also be part of the evaluation process. Many times libraries get boxes of books for “review” before they are purchased. These books would be excellent for avid student readers to review and suggest or not suggest for the library collection.
The importance of evaluating information and historical fiction books is huge. It is pertinent that the library collection have current valid resources available for its patrons. The informational and/or historical facts should be accurate, age appropriate, up-to-date, and inviting for young adults.
Chance also includes in her textbook the following criteria for informational book evaluation that is used for selecting the Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Award:
1. “Excellent, engaging, and distinctive use of language”
2. “Excellent, engaging, and distinctive visual presentation”
3. “Appropriate organization and documentation”
4. “Clear, accurate, and stimulating presentation of facts, concepts, and ideas”
5. “Visual material and book design”
6. “Appropriate style of presentation for subject and intended audience”
7. “Supportive features (index, table of contents, maps, timelines, etc.)
8. “Respectful and of interest to children”
(Chance, 2008)
In addition, Chance includes the following attributes for evaluating cultural books that can be found in historical fiction:
1. “Excellence in writing”
2. “Avoidance of stereotypes”
3. “Accurate information”
4. “Respect for the culture”
5. “Favorable reviews and / or award winners”
(Chance, 2008)
References:
Chance, R. (2008). Young Adult Literature in Action: A Librarian’s Guide. Westport, CT: Libraries Unlimited.
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