Spring Cleaning for the PLA Conference!

To prepare for my concurrent session tomorrow (Books Between Cultures) at the Public Library Association's Annual Convention in Boston, I've been updating and organizing my bookshelf on the Fire Escape, which also features a new review of an excellent anthology for teens. If you're a public librarian, come and say hello on the exhibit floor at the Little Brown Booth #883 Friday morning, March 24th, where I'll be signing from 10-11. I'll also be signing at the Random House booth #914 from 11-12, or stop by my concurrent session in room 311 from 2:15 to 3:30. Can't wait! Here's the description of my presentation:
A growing number of kids straddle two cultures. How might a librarian evaluate a book to see whether it empowers or alienates immigrant kids? Author Mitali Perkins will provide a case study of growing up between cultures, discuss the "pop culture push," and show how stories help kids stay balanced. At the end of this program, participants will leave with increased insight into the challenges and rewards of growing up between cultures, and thus better able to serve the needs of these constituents. They will be equipped with lists of best books for children and teens about immigrant life, and be able to understand, evaluate, and select literature that empowers rather than alienates immigrant kids.