The Bluestem Award is designed for students in grades 3-5 who are ready for longer titles than found on the Monarch list, but not quite ready for the sophistication of some of the Rebecca Caudill titles. The list may include both timeless classics and current titles, as well as books that have appeared on Monarch and Rebecca Caudill lists.
The list of of nominees contains 20 books, and students must read at least 4 to vote for their favorite by March 15.
The Bluestem Award is named in honor of "Big Bluestem", which is the Illinois state prairie grass.
Click HERE to view the 2024 Bluestem Award nominees.