Program Descriptions
SEMINARS ABOUT RECOMMENDED BOOKS FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL AND HIGH SCHOOL: BEST BOOKS OF 2021 and DIVERSE BOOKS OF 2015-2021

In these lively seminars, Kathleen Odean introduces highly recommended books for young adults in middle school and high school. One seminar highlights the Best New Books of 2021 for grades 6-12 while the other three seminars recommend the Best Diverse Books of 2015-2021 for grades 6-9, 9-12, or 6-12. Kathleen brings the books to life with descriptions, quotes, and analysis. Kathleen also shares practical activities and strategies for promoting the books to teens and integrating them into your program. Participants have opportunities to chat briefly with each other about books and ideas. Everyone receives a handout with booklists and resources. This is Kathleen’s 19th year of presenting seminars that receive excellent evaluations from participants. Join her in celebrating wonderful young adult books!
The Best New Young Adult Books of 2021 (Grades 6-12)
The Best Diverse Young Adult Books of 2015-2021 (Grades 6-9, 9-12, or 6-12)
We are in an exciting golden age for diversity in young adult books. In these online seminars, learn about outstanding fiction with diverse characters in terms of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, and more. Expand your knowledge of diverse nonfiction and poetry. Get tips on activities, strategies, and websites to motivate teens to read these and similar books. Chat briefly with fellow educators about their ideas and experiences. Receive a practical handout with additional titles, annotated lists, and ideas. Attend a one-day online seminar on middle school books, high school books, or a combination of both.