Hi all! Regular readers may know that I’m a big fan of the CYBILS Awards – Children’s and Young Adult Bloggers Literary Awards – and that I have been lucky to be picked as a judge for almost 10 years now. The application period for 2022 judges is open, and will be until this coming Monday, September 12th. If you have an interest in kidlit and you have the time, I highly recommend applying. It’s rewarding, you get to read great books, and have a hand in telling other readers what’s good this year.
First Round judges will read ALL the nominated books: this is heavy-duty reading, so clear your night table. You’ll be reading upwards of 100 books in some cases, and deliberating with your fellow panelists on what books are good enough to make the cut and move on to become Finalists.
Second Round judges will read the 6-8 finalists nominated by the First Round judges. Second Round judges will choose the CYBILS award winner and finalists in their chosen category. This is where the nitty gritty discussions happen.
Visit the CYBILS call for judges post to learn more. You don’t necessarily need a blog to qualify: do you talk books up on Twitter? Instagram? Facebook? If you have a public venue for talking kids books, please think about contributing your time and expertise!
Mom Read It 
I love the Cybils. It’s so much fun and, really, what could be better than talking up books with some other great judges?