Diane Roback

On April 28, some of the brightest lights in the children’s book community gathered at the Society of Illustrators in New York City for a tribute to renowned editor Neal Porter, who retired from his eponymous imprint at Holiday House last November, after nearly 50 years in publishing. The Society of Illustrators provided the ideal venue for the occasion, with art and books on display by Porter’s creators.

Is romantasy still leading the pack in YA deals? Is middle grade making a comeback? We asked agents, scouts, and rights directors attending this year’s Bologna Fair to discuss the trends they’ve been tracking. Erica Rand Silverman Stimola Literary Studio The fair feels especially important right now, given the state of the world. It can offer a rare chance for children’s book people to all come together to continue inspiring young readers to have a wide world view.

On Wednesday evening, November 19, book publishers, authors, and agents gathered at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City for the 76th National Book Awards. From that ceremony, we present the five finalists for the Young People’s Literature prize, along with their editors. Click here to see our coverage of winner Daniel Nayeri’s acceptance speech. Daniel Nayeri (l.) and Arthur A. Levine, publisher of Levine Querido.