Monday, March 21, 2011

As the librarian at Lemme School, I am charged with the responsibility of creating a collection of high quality literature for my students and staff.  As I select books, I consider the review of other librarians and book lovers.  But, just because a book gets a starred review in Horn Book doesn't mean that I will love it, and it doesn't mean that my students will love it.  Just because a book bombed in SLJ doesn't mean that it might not be a favorite at Lemme School.  I try to read as many of the books as I can, and I post my thoughts on my blog.  I do not hold reviews against a book!
Most of the books that I review on the Lemme Library Blog are books that are currently in the library.  I try my best to read a majority of the books that come into the library so that I can get them in to the hands of my students.  The books that fly off the shelves are the books that I am able to book talk to kids.  I will also write reviews of books that I am considering for purchase.  These books are usually checked out from the public library, purchased on my own or downloaded from NetGalley. 
I will also review advanced copies of books if it is a title I would consider purchasing for my library. (See The Friendship Doll and Horton Halfpott).  I will accept print copies and digital copies from authors, illustrators and publishers.  If I agree to read an advanced copy, I will post the review after finishing the book, unless requested to do otherwise.  I only post positive reviews on The Lemme Library Blog.  If I don't love a book, I don't post a review.  If I receive a book from an author or publisher that I don't love, I will contact them and tell them that I won't be able to post a review of the book.  That being said, I believe that there is a book for every reader and a reader for every book.  Even if I don't love a book, my kids still need to hear about it.  So, if I read an ARC that I don't love, I will try very hard to find something about it that my kids will love.  (Believe it or not, I do have books in my library that I don't love- I have even convinced kids to check them out and read them!)  Above all, I must adhere to my district selection policy.

I will consider fiction and nonfiction titles that are appropriate for kids in grades K-8.  Because of my ever-growing to be read pile, I may not be able to accept your ARC. 

If you would like to contact me about reviewing a title, I can be reached by email at:

Kelly Butcher
c/o Lemme School
3100 E Washington Street
Iowa City, Iowa 52245