Texas Bluebonnet Award Winners: 2019 Reading List

Hey book lovers! Are you looking for some awesome reads that have been recognized for their quality and appeal to young readers? Look no further! Let's dive into the Texas Bluebonnet Award winners for 2019. This award is a big deal in Texas, celebrating books loved by students in grades 3-6. Getting recognized by the Texas Bluebonnet Award is a huge honor, highlighting books that really resonate with young readers. So, buckle up, because we're about to explore some fantastic stories!

The Texas Bluebonnet Award is more than just a pat on the back for authors; it’s a celebration of reading and a way to get kids excited about books. Each year, students across Texas get to vote for their favorite book from a nominated list. This makes the award super special because it directly reflects what kids are actually enjoying. The 2019 list was packed with incredible stories, diverse characters, and themes that sparked imagination and critical thinking. From thrilling adventures to heartwarming tales, these books offered something for everyone. For educators and parents, the Texas Bluebonnet Award serves as a fantastic guide for selecting high-quality, engaging literature that will captivate young readers and foster a lifelong love of reading. The books often become staples in classrooms and libraries, sparking discussions and enriching the reading experience for countless children. The impact of the award extends beyond just reading; it encourages students to think critically about the stories they read, express their opinions, and participate in a democratic process by voting for their favorite book. It’s a wonderful way to promote literacy and engagement in the community.

The Winning Book of 2019

The winner of the Texas Bluebonnet Award in 2019 was "Wishtree" by Katherine Applegate. This book is a heartwarming tale about acceptance, friendship, and community, told from the perspective of a wise old oak tree named Red. "Wishtree" beautifully weaves together themes of immigration, prejudice, and the importance of understanding one another. It's a story that resonates with readers of all ages, prompting thoughtful discussions about empathy and kindness. Applegate’s writing is both engaging and profound, making complex topics accessible to young readers. The characters are richly developed, and the narrative voice of Red the oak tree provides a unique and compelling perspective. The story follows Samar, a young Muslim girl who is new to the neighborhood and faces prejudice from some of the residents. Red, who has witnessed generations of people making wishes on its branches, becomes a silent observer and eventually a catalyst for change. Through Red’s observations and the actions of a diverse group of animals, the story explores the power of community and the importance of standing up against prejudice. The book's message is particularly relevant in today's world, making it an excellent choice for classroom discussions and family reading. "Wishtree" not only entertains but also educates, promoting empathy, understanding, and acceptance of others. It’s a book that stays with you long after you finish reading, reminding you of the importance of kindness and the power of community.

Other Notable Nominees

While "Wishtree" took home the top prize, the other nominees for the 2019 Texas Bluebonnet Award were equally deserving of recognition. Here are a few standouts:

"The Wild Robot" by Peter Brown

This book tells the story of Roz, a robot who finds herself stranded on a remote island and must learn to survive in the wilderness. "The Wild Robot" is a captivating adventure that explores themes of adaptation, nature, and what it means to be alive. Brown’s writing is both engaging and thought-provoking, and the illustrations perfectly complement the story. The book follows Roz’s journey as she learns to interact with the animals on the island, eventually becoming a surrogate parent to an orphaned gosling. Through her experiences, Roz discovers the beauty and challenges of the natural world and learns to adapt to her new environment. The story raises important questions about technology, nature, and the balance between the two. It’s a book that encourages readers to think about their relationship with the environment and the impact of technology on their lives. "The Wild Robot" is a thrilling adventure that also offers valuable lessons about resilience, adaptation, and the importance of connection.

"Refugee" by Alan Gratz

"Refugee" weaves together the stories of three young people from different time periods, all fleeing their homes in search of safety. Josef is a Jewish boy escaping Nazi Germany in the 1930s, Isabel is a Cuban girl seeking refuge in the United States in 1994, and Mahmoud is a Syrian boy fleeing the war-torn Middle East in 2015. Gratz masterfully connects these stories, highlighting the universal experiences of refugees throughout history. This powerful and moving book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the refugee crisis and the human cost of war and persecution. The book provides a deeply personal look at the challenges faced by refugees, from the dangers of their journeys to the difficulties of adjusting to a new life in a foreign country. Gratz’s writing is both gripping and compassionate, making the stories accessible to young readers while also conveying the emotional weight of the characters’ experiences. "Refugee" is a book that promotes empathy and understanding, encouraging readers to consider the perspectives of those who have been forced to flee their homes. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and the need to support refugees around the world.

"The War That Saved My Life" by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

Set during World War II, this book tells the story of Ada, a young girl with a clubfoot who escapes her abusive mother and finds refuge in the English countryside. "The War That Saved My Life" is a heartwarming and inspiring tale of resilience, courage, and the transformative power of love. Bradley’s writing is both beautiful and poignant, and the characters are richly developed and deeply relatable. The story follows Ada as she learns to trust and love for the first time, finding solace and healing in the care of Susan, a kind woman who takes her in. Through her experiences, Ada discovers her own strength and resilience, learning to overcome the challenges she faces and to embrace her own worth. The book also provides a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people during World War II, highlighting the sacrifices they made and the challenges they faced. "The War That Saved My Life" is a powerful and moving story that celebrates the human spirit and the transformative power of love.

Why These Books Matter

The books nominated for the Texas Bluebonnet Award in 2019 were not only entertaining but also tackled important themes and issues relevant to young readers. These stories encouraged empathy, promoted critical thinking, and fostered a love of reading. By engaging with these books, students had the opportunity to explore different perspectives, learn about different cultures, and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. The books also provided valuable opportunities for classroom discussions and activities, allowing students to share their thoughts and ideas and to learn from one another. The Texas Bluebonnet Award plays a crucial role in promoting literacy and encouraging students to become lifelong readers. By recognizing and celebrating high-quality literature, the award helps to ensure that young people have access to books that will inspire, challenge, and entertain them. The impact of the award extends far beyond the classroom, shaping the reading habits of young people and fostering a love of literature that will last a lifetime.

Conclusion

The 2019 Texas Bluebonnet Award nominees offered a diverse and engaging collection of books that captivated young readers and sparked important conversations. From the heartwarming wisdom of "Wishtree" to the thrilling adventures of "The Wild Robot" and the poignant stories of "Refugee" and "The War That Saved My Life", these books left a lasting impact on students across Texas. If you're looking for some great reads for the young people in your life, be sure to check out these Texas Bluebonnet Award winners and nominees. Happy reading, guys!