New York book wins Newberry Medal

Set in 1970's New York, When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead, delves into the world of sci-fi and fantasy, intersecting with the crossroads that a child comes to when in the midst of adolescence. After commercial success, spending eight weeks on the NY Times Best-seller List, When You Reach Me received critical acclaim on Monday when it won the 2010 Newberry Medal Award..

When You Reach Me, is a New York story, taking place in 1979 on Manhattan's upper west side. Miranda is a twelve-year old girl who is growing up fast, realizing the challenges friendships pose, and trying to make sense of the world around her. When her friendship with best friend Sal suddenly ends, Miranda is left feeling confused and her world is turned upside down. In the aftermath of losing her best friend, Miranda begins receiving very mysterious notes predicting the future, and urging her to figure out how she can prevent a tragic outcome. 

Stead, who grew up during the 1970's on the upper west side like her character, discusses her inspiration for the novel in an interview with Amazon.com, citing A Wrinkle In Time, the classic children's story of time travel that Ms. Stead weaves so brilliantly into her novel.

The Newberry Award is given out once a year by the Association for Library Service to Children. It is given to the author who has recognized the importance of children's literature, acknowledging their contribution to childhood literacy.