As you know, non-fiction is a huge section of your library and covers so many categories and types of books. Non-fiction biographies, autobiographies, expositories, narratives, memoirs, and more, and it's so all encompassing that you will find so many different works in the non-fiction genre. They aren't always what you think, either. One of my favorite non-fiction picture books is What To Do About Alice? by Barbara Kerley. It was humorous, colorful, fun, while still being factually accurate, informative, and historically appropriate. It's a perfect example of a non-fiction book in a format that perhaps you wouldn't expect.
As we talk about non-fiction, it's important to review some of the criteria that we use to evaluate non-fiction, particularly young adult non-fiction books.
First, what are the qualifications of the author?
It's important to evaluate the author and become well-informed on the authors that are reputable regarding their accuracy and research as they present information in their non-fiction books. You will come to find certain authors, like Kathleen Krull and Steve Jenkins, are reputable, accurate, and excellent at researching their information prior to writing their books. Learn to be familiar with the names that you can trust. It's also a great tool to simply look at the jacket of the book and check out the acknowledgements from the author.
Are the facts accurate?
When we read a non-fiction book, the reality is that you and I may not know if the facts are accurate. We aren't the experts, that's likely why we are reading the book! That's where we have to rely on the authors, and that's why it's important to learn who you can trust. One way you can fact check for yourself is to get several books together on the same topic and read them all. After reading you'll find the information that overlaps and what doesn't. That may help you narrow down what is questionable and what information is repeated in several books.
What is the purpose and scope of the book?
As an educator, decide what you need regarding scope- do you need a broad scope or narrow facts? Figuring out the scope of the book will help you understand the purpose and if the book fits your needs or not. This can apply both to the classroom, and also when helping users/patrons find the correct book during a reader's advisory interview.
How does the organization of the book assist readers in locating information?
Does it have a table of contents, index, or glossary, and does it help students/readers find the information they are seeking?
What role do the visuals play in the book?
Do the visuals, such as pictures, illustrations, and graphics, add to the text and elaborate on the subject matter? Are they relevant and and realistic? Graphs, tables, photographs, and elaborate illustrations add to the intrigue, understanding, and overall impact on the reader.
Non-fiction books are such a huge section of our library and they are so vital for many reasons. Once again, these books can be both mirrors, windows, and doors for our readers. It's so important to make sure that you appropriately evaluate non-fiction books with the criteria above and get the best books on your shelves for our patrons and students.
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