Posts on cybils

Sometimes my posts seem but a faint echo of the clamor all over the Kidlitosphere... but hey, for the sake of posterity, I'll chime in anyway.

First, the second annual Kidlitosphere Conference has come and gone. For a taste of what you (and I) missed, check out the numerous wrap-ups by attendees.

Second, nominations are now open for the third annual Cybil Awards. This is your chance to nominate your favorite books of 2008 for these blogger-run children's and YA literature awards. Jen Robinson explains in further detail. Nominations are only open until October 15, so make sure your favorites get on the list for consideration!

And for something completely different: I love the Chicago Tribune's online historical photo galleries. Hundreds of fascinating photos, some idyllic, some brutal, evoke eras past in the Windy City.

The current feature is Stroll the White City, photos from the Chicago World's Fair a whopping 115 years ago. What a spectacle! It's pretty much impossible to imagine Chicago putting on such an extravagant show ever again—all the beautiful (temporary) buildings, the amazing artifacts from all over the world, the throngs of people! Then again, there's that whole 2016 Olympic bid.