The 2009 Newbery Medal

Summary: When D Foster enters Neeka's life, everything changes. From a safe Queens neighborhood, they glimpse a world of loss and freedom through D's eyes. As they bond over Tupac's music, D's sudden departure and Tupac's tragic end leave Neeka reflecting on the impact of brief but profound connections. What truths will she uncover about friendship and life?

Summary: Mibs Beaumont eagerly awaits her thirteenth birthday, the day her magical savvy will reveal itself. But when her father is in a terrible accident, Mibs hopes for a power that can save him. Determined, she sneaks onto a bus with her siblings and friends, embarking on a journey filled with unexpected twists, talking tattoos, and a surprising kidnapping. As they travel, Mibs discovers that her savvy might not be what she expected, but it could be exactly what she needs. Will her newfound ability be enough to change her father's fate?

Summary: In 1896 Cuba, amidst the chaos of war and reconcentration camps, nurse Rosa defies danger by turning hidden caves into makeshift hospitals. As she aids all who seek her help, regardless of race or allegiance, Rosa becomes a beacon of hope. But can her courage and compassion mend a nation torn apart by conflict? Discover the true story of Rosa la Bayamesa, a folk hero who dared to heal in a time of despair. This poetic journey through Cuba's fight for freedom will leave you breathless, questioning the true cost of independence.

Summary: In the bayou's depths, a calico cat and a chained hound forge an unexpected friendship. As the cat hides her kittens beneath a porch to escape a cruel man, their safety hinges on staying hidden. But when a kitten's curiosity leads to danger, their world teeters on the brink. Will love triumph over hate, or will their fragile happiness shatter? This tale of friendship and survival explores the power of promises and the peril of curiosity.