Daniel Kraus named new Booklist Books for Youth Editor

CHICAGO -- Daniel Kraus has been named new Books for Youth Editor at Booklist Publications, following the resignation of current director Gillian Engberg. Kraus joined Booklist in 2008 after two years as an associate editor at American Libraries magazine, where he created over 100 popular “AL Focus” videos.

Kraus quickly added a unique voice to Booklist reviews features (both print and online), blogs and the popular Booklandia newsletter. He also started the weekly Hostile Questions interview in which many best-selling authors have subjected themselves (apparently willingly) to his tongue-in-cheek aggressive questions. About his new role, Kraus said, “I’m excited to do this. We have a ton of talent on staff, and it’s a real honor to be asked to help shape and channel that talent.”

In addition to his job at Booklist, Kraus is the author of four YA novels (including the award-winning "Rotters" and "Scowler" and the upcoming "Trollhunters," co-authored with filmmaker Guillermo del Toro) and the director of six nationally broadcasted feature films. He received his MLIS at the University of Urbana-Champaign and worked as a reference librarian before joining ALA in 2006.

“We’re sorry to lose Gillian Engberg, who has made such an impact on our coverage of youth books across all the Booklist publications,” said editor and publisher Bill Ott, “but we’re thrilled to have Dan move into the position. He’s one of the most multitalented, innovative individuals I’ve ever worked with, and I know he’ll take us into uncharted territory!”

Engberg is leaving Booklist in December to move overseas. Among other notable accomplishments for the publications during her 16 years on staff, her development of Booklist’s and Book Links’ Common Core content made Booklist a go-to resource and made her a chosen interview subject on the topic.

Booklist is the book review magazine of the American Library Association, considered an essential collection development and readers’ advisory tool by thousands of librarians for more than 100 years. Booklist Online includes a growing archive of 160,000+ reviews available to all Booklist subscribers as well as a wealth of free content offering the latest news and views on books and media.

Related Links

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The Booklist Reader--Booklist’s blogs, including Book Group Buzz.