Mind you, this is a worthy list, developed by caring people at a greatly respected institution. I also know that the list was first drawn up in 2001. The 2006 revision added a couple of titles I'm very pleased to see--Cynthia Leitich Smith's Indian Shoes, and Jackie Woodson's Show Way. But really, I wonder why there's no South Asian content at all, in any of the categories. Pooja Makhijani's bibliography contains a number of titles across the age range with South Asian themes. They are by a range of writers, some of South Asian origin and some not. Perhaps, this being 2009, it's time for another look.
Friday, August 14, 2009
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I know that on my own blog, I don't do a good job of reviewing South Asian literature. I could use the excuse that the books are hard to find, but that's a pretty lame excuse which is used too ofter with regards to books about people of color. I can't speak for the NEA, but I can say that I know I have to do a better job. We, as a community of bloggers have to make sure the titles are promoted, then NEA will have absolutely no excuse for such a bland list!
ReplyDeleteThe CCBC book list actually hasn't been updated since 2006.
ReplyDeleteYes, and they're aware of it, and intend to update it and perhaps expand it soon. Neesha sent a letter to CCBC, signed by several of us. We received a swift and gracious reply, and I look forward to a new, updated list.
ReplyDeleteAmazing, the oversight. I applaud you for taking action and writing to CCBC. I look forward to seeing the updates, too.
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