We're celebrating International Children's Book Day by reading the books recognized by the 2018 Mildred L. Batchelder Award committee. Since 1966, the Batchelder Award has been awarded to children's books published in another language and country and then translated into English and published in the United States.
The winner of the 2018 Batchelder Award is a swashbuckling mystery from Sweden. The Murderer's Ape tells the story of Sally Jones, a gorilla, working as an engineer aboard the Hudson Queen. When her best friend and employer, Harry Koskela, is arrested for murder, Sally sets out on a voyage to prove his innocence.
Three other books received honors in 2018:
Malala: Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani civil rights activist, is admired for her courage and tireless efforts to speak up for girls around the world. This French picture book is special because it provides cultural information about life in Pakistan, as well as having beautiful illustrations.
When A Wolf Is Hungry: In this French picture book, a lone wolf has a taste for rabbit. Not just any rabbit. "A grain-fed, silky-haired rabbit, one with just a hint of sweetness. A city bunny." So off he cycles to the nearest city. Will he satisfy his craving or find something even sweeter? You'll howl with laughter.
You Can't Be Too Careful!: This Brazilian picture book starts with a gardener guarding a white rose and gradually introduces a larger cast of characters, all of whom are connected by actions large or small—and possibly by their relationship to the white rose.
What is your favorite international book?
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