The 2021 Cybils Award

Summary: In Ohio, a young girl feels embarrassed when her immigrant parents stop to gather wild watercress. As her mother shares a poignant story from their past in China, the girl begins to understand the significance of their foraging. This journey into family history transforms her embarrassment into appreciation, creating a new, cherished memory. Discover how a simple act of gathering connects generations and uncovers the power of heritage.

Summary: In the perilous town of Tierra del Sol, Cece Rios faces a daunting challenge: her sister Juana has been taken by a dark spirit. To save her, Cece must defy her community's laws and become a bruja, mastering forbidden magic. With the enigmatic criatura Coyote as her ally, Cece embarks on a daring quest into Devil’s Alley. Can she rescue Juana and redefine what it means to wield such power, all while keeping her mission a secret? The stakes are high, and the desert spirits are watching.

Summary: When a dog falls ill, a cat steps in to fill his paws, but the book's demands—digging holes, fetching sticks, guarding sheep—prove tricky. Can this feline find clever ways to meet the book's expectations without getting her paws dirty? Join this comical clash of wits as the cat navigates her new role, offering a humorous twist on classic early reader tales. Will the cat and the book find common ground, or will their antics lead to a surprising conclusion?

Summary: In a quiet town, a school is rocked by swastika vandalism. Michael, the first to see it, becomes a suspect. Popular Link is pressured to solve the mystery, while Dana, the only Jewish student, feels more isolated. As more symbols appear, the trio must confront not only the present crimes but also the shadows of the past. Can they unite the school and uncover the truth behind the hate? Dive into a gripping mystery where the 'why' is more crucial than the 'who.'