I’m sure we’re not done with A Season of Gifts, but I’m sure exhausted and fried by this discussion, and need to take a break.
Meanwhile: I’ve seen in comments here and also at Debbie Reese’s blog, many people who–symphatetic to "my camp"–suggest they now have no desire to read the book.
That was never my intention, though people’s reading choices are their own. However: I strongly encourage those who have been participating in the debate on this book, or are intrigued by the debate, to read the book. We need a wider forum of informed readers on this one. That’s what a Mock Newbery is all about.
And you have a chance now, to read and reflect, because I’m about to change the subject.


I was thinking just this morning that I need to change my mind about that and read the book. At least if I want to participate in the discussion about it. It’s all well and good to make general comments about racially insensitive material. But really what’s at issue is if this particular book is distinguished or not. And you can only make that determination by reading it.
I wasn’t planning on reading this right away-our September orders are pouring in-but this discussion has made me put the book near the top of my TBR pile.
I’m still thinking about the book. I was home at Nambe for a week, and spent this week getting caught up with work and teaching.