“The National Book Foundation announced the Longlist for the 2022 National Book Award for Young People’s Literature (YPL) earlier this week. The Finalists in all five categories will be revealed on Tuesday, October 4.
This year’s Longlist includes two authors who have been previously honored by the National Book Awards: Traci Chee was a Finalist for Young People’s Literature in 2020, and Anna-Marie McLemore was Longlisted for Young People’s Literature in 2016 and 2021.”
The Ten Contenders for the National Book Award for Young People’s Literature are:
The Ogress and the Orphans by Kelly Barnhill (Grades 4-8) — A new instant-classic fantasy about the power of generosity and love, and how a community suffers when they disappear, by Kelly Barnhill, winner of the Newbery Medal for The Girl Who Drank the Moon.
The Life and Crimes of Hoodie Rosen by Isaac Blum (Grades 8-12) — The Chosen meets Adam Silvera in this irreverent and timely story of worlds colliding in friendship, betrayal, and hatred.
A Thousand Steps into Night by Traci Chee (Grades 8-12) — From bestselling author and National Book Award finalist Traci Chee comes a Japanese-influenced fantasy brimming with demons, adventure, and plans gone awry. Available at CA Library.
Swim Team by Johnnie Christmas (Grades 4-7) — A splashy, contemporary middle grade graphic novel from bestselling comics creator Johnnie Christmas!
Self-Made Boys: A Great Gatsby Remix by Anna-Marie McLemore (Grades 8-12) — Stonewall Honor recipient and two-time National Book Award Longlist selectee Anna-Marie McLemore weaves an intoxicating tale of glamor and heartache in this latest title in the Remixed Classics series.
The Lesbiana’s Guide to Catholic School by Sonora Reyes (Grades 9-12) — A sharply funny and moving debut novel about a queer Mexican American girl navigating Catholic school, while falling in love and learning to celebrate her true self.
Victory. Stand!: Raising My Fist For Justice by Tommie Smith, Derrick Barnes, and Dawud Anyabwile (Grades 8-12) — A groundbreaking and timely graphic memoir from one of the most iconic figures in American sports―and a tribute to his fight for civil rights.
All My Rage by Sabaa Tahir (Grades 9-12) — From bestselling author Sabaa Tahir comes a brilliant, unforgettable, and heart-wrenching contemporary novel about family and forgiveness, love and loss, in a sweeping story that crosses generations and continents. Available at CA Library.
Lotus Bloom and the Afro Revolution by Sherri Winston (Grades 3-5) — From the beloved author of President of the Whole Fifth Grade, a story about a young Black girl who summons the courage to fight against a discriminatory dress code–and stand up for herself.
Maizy Chen’s Last Chance by Lisa Yee (Grades 4-7) — Twelve year-old Maizy discovers her family’s Chinese restaurant is full of secrets in this irresistible novel that celebrates food, fortune, and family.