Coming-of-Age Titles, "Kimchi & Calamari," New Authors, Adult Beverages

You'll see her bylines from Booklist to Bookslut, where she reviews young adult titles. Colleen Mondor's most recent column at the latter considers "Boys and Comics."

At her own blog, Chasing Ray, Colleen is gathering recommendations for coming-of-age novels. Scoot on over and see the list so far, and make a suggestion. It doesn't matter what year the book was published.

I added to the roster Kimchi & Calamari, which comes out in April. Keep your eyes out for this wonderful book by Rose Kent, who very kindly sent me an advance copy. Here's what I told Colleen:

The novel, for 9 to 12 year olds, tells the story of 14-year-old Joseph, who was born in Korea and adopted as a baby by an Italian American family. Using a lot of humor and compassion, Rose Kent relates Joseph's struggles with identity (and his growing relationship with his adoptive father) with the ease of an old pro. An impressive first novel—and lots of fun.

Rose Kent belongs to the Class of 2k7 posse of children's and YA authors with first books coming out in 2007. Hats off to the Class and their smart idea to band together and utilize the marketing power of the Internet. Many of the group will join Newbery judge Betsy Bird and others at Kidlit Drink Night in NYC this Friday. For details, see  A Fuse #8 Production.

A big Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators confab takes place in NYC this coming weekend. I know we'll get some updates from the many bloggers in attendance.

Comments

[Rose]

Thanks for the kind words, Susan! Here's to the coming-of-age stories. I mean we've all been there, right?

[Susan]

You bet!

That was my six degrees of separation post. Not too difficult in the world of children's books!

[Jen Robinson]

Thanks for the comments on Kimchi and Calamari. I just accepted a copy from Rose (haven't received it yet) and I'm glad I did.

[Susan]

I just loved it, Jen.

[Colleen]

Thanks so much for all the links Susan - I've been pretty blown away by the response to my Coming-of-Age nominations request. There are so many different books that have shown up; it's really pretty cool.

I requested Rose's book from the publisher last fall - haven't seen it yet, but imagine since all of you guys are getting copies they should be sending out the review request copies soon. I'm looking forward to it; as you know I'm always on the hunt for a good "boy" boy!

[Colleen]

Umm that would be "boy book"! - not "boy boy".

No idea what kind of freudian slip that was........

[Vivian]

I keep hearing about this book and am really looking forward to reading it.