I just read the Publishers Weekly article The Bestselling Children’s Books of 2012. A few thoughts…

1. The rise of the Dork
How about the Dork Diaries series taking two of the top six hardcover frontlist spots? When that series first appeared I didn’t think it would make that sort of a splash. But Dork Diaries have been on fire this year in my school libraries, so I could sense they were reaching critical mass. Given all that student interest, seeing them on the list isn’t a complete shock.

2. Seuss 4EVA
After the Hunger Games craziness at the top, the hardcover backlist bestsellers are dominated by Seuss. Five out of ten. Good to see the Geisel obsession continue.

3. The Giver keeps on giving
After The Hunger Games, what is the bestselling backlist paperback? Our 1994 Newbery winner The Giver. I was surprised until I remembered that the final book in that series, Son, came out in 2012, which likely boosted sales.

4. Disappearing Potter
The article mentions it, but it’s worth repeating – Harry Potter is almost entirely absent this year. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is the lone representative, coming in at #53 on the paperback backlist chart. Color me shocked!

Anything you notice?

(Top Image: ‘Change Please‘ http://www.flickr.com/photos/75618317@N02/8083751944 Found on flickrcc.net)