Get ready to vote! The YALSA election runs from March 19 through April 25, and to help you be an informed voter, we’re sharing interviews with each of the 2014 candidates for YALSA Award Committees.
This week we are focusing on the Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults Award Committee, which honors the best nonfiction book published for young adults (ages 12-18) during a November 1 – October 31 publishing year.
Candidates, who will be presented in alphabetical order, were asked to craft “Twitter-length” responses (i.e. around 140 characters). Full biographical information on all of the candidates can be found on the sample ballot.
Today we have an interview with Kelly Metzger.
Name and current position: Kelly Caswell Metzger, School Librarian, Kickemuit Middle School, Warren, RI
Why did you decide to run for a YALSA selection committee?
My experience on PPYA was so enriching and enjoyable, I wanted to participate on another committee to further expand my professional and literary knowledge.
In a nutshell, what will you bring to the committee?
Opinions, commitment, and an appreciation for the authors who write these amazing, engaging titles.
What experience do you have with materials selection and evaluation?
I’ve spent 12 years evaluating and selecting fiction and nonfiction for use in instruction and recreational reading for my students. I also served on PPYA.
What makes you a good fit for this committee in particular?
The nonfiction recognized by the committee is the type of nonfiction I enjoy reading and promoting. I love demonstrating the power of books for research, and seek engaging books to motivate my students.
How do you plan to manage the reading load required by selection committee participation?
Careful time management is key. Also: lots of reading during nap time, always carrying a book with me, and TV only once a week.
What have been some of your favorite past winners of this particular award?
Charles & Emma is my hands-down favorite.
What books should have won the award, but didn’t?
I wish Elephant Talk had earned an honor. Also Temple Grandin’s book was amazing.
What else do voters need to know about you?
I love back matter! I’m thrilled to have been selected to run for this committee. I welcome the opportunity to read until my eyes burn in search of the best nonfiction!
This interview was cross-posted on The Hub and the YALSAblog.
