The New Mexico Center for the Book has selected one youth book and one adult book to represent the state at the 2024 National Book Festival: Herizon by Daniel W. Vandever and Corey Begay; and, A Bad Day for Sunshine by Darynda Jones.
Both titles will be part of the Great Reads from Great Places, which features books and authors representing the literary heritage of all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and Northern Marianas. There is also a ReadSquared challenge for the western mountain region states. All public libraries that are using ReadSquared will be able to add the challenge to your homepage, so your patrons may participate.
The National Book Festival, on August 24 in Washington, D.C., will include many livestreamed and recorded virtual programs celebrating books and authors, which will be posted on the National Book Festival website and the PBS Books site. You can also find out more about the New Mexico titles on the New Mexico State Library National Book Festival site.
About the Books
Herizon follows the journey of a Diné girl as she helps her grandmother retrieve a flock of sheep with the help of a magical scarf. The inspiring story celebrates creativity and bravery, while promoting an inclusive future made possible through intergenerational strength and knowledge. Herizon is a wordless picture book as an ode to Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR).
A worthy and empowering addition to any child’s bookshelf. – Kirkus Reviews
A Bad Day for Sunshine is the first book in a laugh out loud, page turning fun series featuring a sassy, tough as stilettos sheriff named Sunshine. The book is set in Del Sol, New Mexico, a small town that has it all, family, friends, an old flame, and a kidnapper on the loose.
Compelling characters and a sexy, angst-filled bunch of mysteries add up to a winning series debut. – Kirkus Reviews
About the Authors
Daniel W. Vandever is the owner of South of Sunrise Creative, a strategic communications firm. The company focuses on equity, access, and advancement – principles that also shape his approach to children’s books. It is in each role that Vandever hopes to affect change on the Navajo Nation through education and community development strategies.
Corey Begay s a Navajo artist and graphic designer from Cedar Springs Arizona on the Navajo Nation. Corey graduated from Northern Arizona University in 2015 with a bachelor’s degree in Visual Communications.
New York Times bestselling author, Darynda Jones, is a born storyteller who grew up spinning tales. She has won numerous awards for her work, including a prestigious RITA, a Golden Heart, and a Daphne du Maurier. She has several series, most notably the Sunshine Vicram mystery series and the Charley Davidson paranormal mystery series. She hopes you enjoy reading them as much as she enjoys writing them.
About New Mexico Center for the Book
New Mexico Center for the Book is a state affiliate of the Center for the Book at the Library of Congress. The New Mexico center promotes literacy and a love of books, reading, and libraries throughout the state, celebrating New Mexico’s literary heritage. The New Mexico Center for the Book is administered by New Mexico State Library, a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs.
