National Ambassador
Katherine Paterson, beloved and award-winning author, has taken the reins as National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature. Paterson, a two-time winner of the National Book Award and Newbery Medal, will hold the post in 2010 and 2011. Her platform, “Read for Your Life,” will encourage young readers to read widely to expand their horizons and delight their imaginations. She succeeds the first Ambassador, Jon Scieszka, who was appointed in 2008.
Become a fan of Paterson on Facebook to hear updates, see pictures from her travels, and more!
The position of National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature was created by the Children’s Book Council, Every Child a Reader, and the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress to raise national awareness of the importance of young people’s literature as it relates to lifelong literacy, education, and the development and betterment of the lives of young people.
The National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature is named by the Librarian of Congress for a two-year term, based on recommendations from a selection committee representing many segments of the book community. The selection criteria include the candidate’s contribution to young people’s literature and ability to relate to children.
The National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature initiative is administered by Every Child a Reader in collaboration with the CBC and the Library of Congress.
To learn more about this literacy initiative, please visit the Ambassador website at www.childrensbookambassador.com.