I don’t think I have ever had to tally so many votes and people’s opinions have been fierce. I know the choice is tough because three are so many incredible books out there, and thank goodness for that! So without further fanfare, I present you with the shortened list of choices for Global Read Aloud 2014. This list is partly based on votes, partly based on my opinion on whether or not the choice will start a conversation, and partly on whether or not the book is accessible in countries outside of the US. If your favorite didn’t make the cut, please feel free to let me know and try to persuade me. Sometimes great books are missed.