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One Book For Nebraska Kids
or One Book For Nebraska Teens

Wouldn't it be great if kids all over Nebraska were talking about books? The Nebraska Library Commission & the Regional Library Systems have a program where kids can all read and discuss the same book.

The Nebraska Library Commission and the Regional Library Systems have book bags for many, but not all, of the selected titles. To borrow the book bags, contact the Commission Reference Services, 402-471-2045, 800-307-2665, e-mail, or the Regional Library System offices. For more information contact Sally Snyder, Coordinator of Children and Young Adult Library Services, 402-471-4003, 800-307-2665. Guidelines can be found here. These are thought-provoking books to read anytime and librarians may borrow the book sets whenever they are available and fit into their library or school's schedule. The Library Commission has many other book bags available - check them out here.

Watch the recorded session from May 1, 2024 to learn more about this program and the 2024 selections: NCompass Live: One Book For Nebraska Kids & Teens 2024.

Beginning in 2013 we select both a One Book for Nebraska Kids and a One Book for Nebraska Teens every year. Prior to 2013 we alternated choosing titles. The "Kids" book is aimed at grades 4-6 or so and the "Teens" title is often aimed at high school age readers.

Looking for past selections? Jump to: 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2014 2013 2012 2011-12 2010-11 2009-10 2008-09 2007-08


Current Year: One Book For Nebraska Kids and Teens 2024

Kids: Parachute Kids by Betty C. Tang

A middle-grade graphic novel that follows Feng-Li and her siblings as they navigate life alone in a new country. After a fun-filled vacation in California, Mom and Dad announce that the family is staying and enroll the children in school. When their parents’ visas expire, the children are left in their rental house while their parents return to Taiwan to sort out a legal reentry to the United States.

Links Activities 
Author Information
Alphabet Soup  
Book Club Kit
Easy and Cute Origami Paper Doll from Pink Stripey Socks
Read-Alikes Blank Comic Book Panels from Scholastic
Mini Book Review Sheet
Parachute Kids

Teens: Between the Lines by Nikki Grimes

This 2018 companion to Grimes’ Bronx Masquerade combines verse and prose to explore the thoughts, feelings, and struggles of a diverse class of poets as they prepare for their school poetry slam. In addition to honing their writing skills, they find friendship and support in each other.

Links Activities 
Book Website
Mad Libs  
Author Information
Blackout Poetry from Just Add Students  
Discussion and Activity Guide from Nikki Grimes Host a Poetry Slam or Open Mic Event from ALA/YALSA's Teen Reading Week
Book Club Kit
Mini Book Review Sheet
Read-Alikes
Between The Lines

Coming Soon: One Book For Nebraska Kids and Teens 2025

Kids: Lions and Liars by Kate Beasley

Lions and Liars book cover

Teens: Where You See Yourself by Claire Forrest

Where You See Yourself book cover

Sponsored by the Nebraska Library Commission & the Regional Library Systems