What is a Hoosier Nominee?

Indiana is known as the Hoosier State.  In 1974, the Association for Indiana Media Educators (AIME) began a program to encourage students to read.  In the beginning they chose only one book as an award winner in the 4th to 6th grade category.  Then in 1985 they started with two winners: one for the 4th to 6th  grades and one for the 6th to 8th grades.  In 1992, there were three winners: one for kindergarten to 3rd grade (which are usually picture books), one for 4th to 6th grades, one for 6th to 8th grades.  

In some Indiana schools, many of the winners from earlier years are put on the required reading lists.  At George Earle Elementary, each grade level has a different reading program.  Second through fifth graders have D.E.A.R. (Drop Everything and Read) time.  In 4th and 5th grades, the Hoosier Nominees are on the required reading lists and we receive extra credit for each one we read.  To get an A in reading, we must read 1,000 pages per trimester.  Mrs. Mercer, our librarian, has a pizza party for all students who read 10 or more Hoosier Nominees during the school year.

At the end of the year, 4th and 5th grade students vote for their favorite Hoosier nominee.  Mrs. Mercer sends in our votes and the AIME gives the Hoosier Award to the book that receives the most votes from the schools in Indiana.

I have read Hoosiers since kindergarten.  Of course, until I could read better, someone had to read them to me.  I have liked most Hoosier books.  This year my favorites from the 4th through 6th grade group were Barn Burner, Missing in the Mountains, and Ruthie's Gift.  I also read some of the books from the 6th through 8th group and my favorites were Esperanza Rising and Good Night, Maman.

Download George Earle Required Reading List 2002-2003