2023 Winners
PRINTED BOOKS
Grand Prize Winner
Pebbles and the Biggest Number by Joey Benun, illustrated by Laura Watson
$100 Drawing Winner
Edgar Allan Know and His Big Busy Brain by Rahni Varieur-Davies
Activity Books
1st Place: The Case of the Stolen Treasure: A Mystery Activity Book by Sara Furlong
2nd Place: Kayla: A Modern-Day Princess Activity Book by Deedee Cummings, illustrated by Charlene Mosley
Honorable Mention:
Tools to Cool: Finding Ways to Cope by Stephanie Scott, illustrated by Natalia Starikova
Hello, It’s Me! by Elena Schietinger
Wabash & Erie Canal Activity Book by Leland P. Gamson, illustrated by Karen Camden Welsh
ABCity by Roxie Munro
My Fingerpaint Masterpiece Coloring Book by Sherrill S. Cannon, illustrated by Kalpart
Activity Kit
1st Place: The Case of the Stolen Treasure: A Mystery Activity Book by Sara Furlong
Animals/Pets
1st Place (tie): Desert Friends (Travels with the Pack) by Linda Harkey, illustrated by Mike Minick
1st Place (tie): Lauren The Cow by T.I. Frazier, illustrated by Meritxell Andreu
1st Place (tie): Find Your Brave by Kristen Lloyd
2nd Place: Geckos in the Garden by Ruth Amanda
Honorable Mention:
Nicky, A Boy’s Furry Companion by Bonnie Lou Schreiner
Phoebe the Flamingo by Ethan Warlick, illustrated by Kim Warlick
Wild about the Alphabet! (and Other Tales) by Mike Crowder
Rescuing Reed: The Little Dog Who Could by Heidi Mottin, illustrated by Stephani Fliss
Riley the Little Lost Corgi by Tammy Knudtson, illustrated by Robert Sauber
Story Swapping A Tale of a Naughty Puppy by Vassi Rombis, illustrated by Frances Rose Espanol
The Stallion and His Peculiar Boy by M.J. Evans
Good Girl, Karma by Laurie Hanson, illustrated by Jessica Anlauf
Wimps of the Wild by Brooke C., illustrated by John Ramsey
Being a Good Friend by Miselle Goffman
Binky the Bowerbird by Barb Cromie, illustrated by Nandina Vines
Carlito Pizarras: Hero of the Tarsiers by Christine L. Villa, illustrated by Nonisel Sipalay
Slow Dog by Joy Johnston, illustrated by Lana Lee
Brady and the Backyard Monster by Pattie Manente, illustrated by Olena Kharkovenko
Alpaca Ranch Fun! by Jack Rotifer
Blue is the Only Color in the Rainbow by Deanna Hart, illustrated by Chrish Vindhy
Buddy: A Farm in the Forest Story by Jena Wagmann, illustrated by Alana Hyrtle
Secrets of the Wild by Olivia Kent
Twelve Days of Rescue by Tonya Cartmell
Squawk: A Book of Bird Adventures by Lorna Collins
The Zookeepers’ Quest: The Koala and the Bushfire by Lorraine and Jessica Miller
The Purple Raccoon by Sara Furlong
Eli Finds His Zen by Ginette Valiquette, illustrated by Jupiters Muse
Toby’s Big Adventure by Bonnie Lou Schreiner, illustrated by Ron Pios
Frewin Frog Shares His Log by Ethan Warlick, illustrated by Kim Warlick
Yukon Dogs: Phil Finds a Friend by Kylie Campbell-Clarke
Kudzu’s Enormous New Life by Sidney Thompson
Lulu and Malek Sail Off to Sea! by June Foster and Rob Scheer, illustrated by Gill Guile
Montana Cats: A Tale of Winter by Peggy Sullivan
Ryan Daniels: Good Night, Firefly by Dr. Ada Aguilar, illustrated by Tapoti Rani Sarkar
Schoolhouse Dogs Face Life by Dawn Renee Darnell and Jim H. Darnell Jr.
The Arctic Quest by Minda Gomez
Teamwork! Betty the Iditarod Sled Dog by Jack Rotifer
A Friend for Princess Ada by Emilee Moore, illustrated by Kim Soderberg
Cradle in the Wild by Linda Wilson, illustrated by 1000 Storybooks
Arts/Music
1st Place: A Colorful Beginning by Raven Howell, illustrated by Carina Povarchik
2nd Place: The Accidental Orchestra by Aniela Emma Chaudhuri, illustrated by Daniel McCloskey
Honorable Mention:
Katy on Broadway by Ella English
Artism and Me, Autism Within My Heart in Color by Maggie Russell
Sora Searches for a Song by Once Upon a Dance
The Piano by Chari Smith, illustrated by Elle Smith
Ella Learns to Dance by Stenetta Anthony
Painting Joy: the Art and Life of Fernando Llort by Teddi Ahrens
Audiobook
1st Place: Mickie McKinney: Boy Detective, Connections in Chemistry by R.L. Fink, illustrated by Antony Wootten
2nd Place: Book of Bad Bargains by Laura Teste
Honorable Mention:
The Adventures of the Bureau of the Missing Socks by Millicent Sutton
Best Cover Design
1st Place (tie): Maya Moves to a New Country by Pearl Alimo, illustrated by Sayani Mukherjee
1st Place (tie): Pebbles and the Biggest Number by Joey Benun, illustrated by Laura Watson
2nd Place: Moby Plays the Flute by Eeha Bhatt
Honorable Mention:
Desert Friends (Travels with the Pack) by Linda Harkey, illustrated by Mike Minick
In My Heart: A Book About Kindness by Julie Nichole, illustrated by Blueberry Illustrations
You Have to Live, Why Not Win? by David Ketchen and Larry Thornton, illustrated by Dave Dodson
Riley the Little Lost Corgi by Tammy Knudtson, illustrated by Robert Sauber
Buddy: A Farm in the Forest Story by Jena Wagmann, illustrated by Alana Hyrtle
DanSing Pancakes’ Healthy Choices Musical Story by Joe Coleman, illustrated by Tracy F. Pyke
Who’s New at Lou’s Zoo by JoAnn Dickinson, illustrated by Lauren Sparks
It’s That Time of Year! Diwali is Here! by Vanessa Kapadia
Sneaky Snobby by Jennifer Kvam, illustrated by Sarah Joy Kvam
Gracie and the Radar Girls by Karen J Moore, illustrated by Lyn Meredith
Grandpa’s Short Stories by Roger Williams, illustrated by Barbara Owczarek
Squawk: A Book of Bird Adventures by Lorna Collins
Bentley’s Dream by Sandra Harry, illustrated by Nikki Boetger
Best Illustrations
1st Place (tie): Pebbles and the Biggest Number by Joey Benun, illustrated by Laura Watson
1st Place (tie): The Bear and the Hug by Melissa Cannioto
2nd Place: Find Your Brave by Kristen Lloyd
Honorable Mention:
Artism and Me, Autism Within My Heart in Color by Maggie Russell
Desert Friends (Travels with the Pack) by Linda Harkey, illustrated by Mike Minick
In My Heart: A Book About Kindness by Julie Nichole, illustrated by Blueberry Illustrations
You Have to Live, Why Not Win? by David Ketchen and Larry Thornton, illustrated by Dave Dodson
Gizelle’s Silly Soggy Day by Michelle Hill and Joy VanDertuin, illustrated by Kimberly Merritt
A Penguin’s World by Patricia Gleichauf, illustrated by Karen Staszko
Lulu and Malek Sail Off to Sea! by June Foster and Rob Scheer, illustrated by Gill Guile
Oscar the Piglet Does Not Want to Wash Up by Elizaveta Akimova
Riley the Little Lost Corgi by Tammy Knudtson, illustrated by Robert Sauber
Wild about the Alphabet! (and Other Tales) by Mike Crowder
The White Buffalo by Marc Nitsche, illustrated by Jonathan Warm Day Coming
DanSing Pancakes’ Healthy Choices Musical Story by Joe Coleman, illustrated by Tracy F. Pyke
The Rowdy Randy Wild West Show by Casey Day Rislov, illustrated by Zachary Pullen
Jelly Baby by Moira Andrew, illustrated by Caterina Cozza
A Dinosaur in the Woods by Annette Allison, illustrated by Courtney Crawford
Mr Washington’s Granite State Vacation by Angela Welch, illustrated by Sarah Boudreau
Turning Pennies Into Dimes (Doc the Wolf) by Kevin Chu
Burt: the Airport Cat by Christine Henry
Finding George by Joan Enockson, illustrated by Abra Shirley
Grandpa’s Short Stories by Roger Williams, illustrated by Barbara Owczarek
Nurse Florence®, How Do We Feel Hot and Cold Things? by Michael Dow, illustrated by Kenady Kitchen
Sora Searches for a Song by Once Upon a Dance, illustrated by Scott Partridge
Squawk: A Book of Bird Adventures by Lorna Collins
Wings of Glitter by Miranda Sada, illustrated by Rafael and Leilani Hasson
Bentley’s Dream by Sandra Harry, illustrated by Nikki Boetger
Magic Gifts by Marlene Bryenton, , illustrated by Allison Wolvers
The Girl and the Lock on Her Heart by Lauren Lee
Toby’s Big Adventure by Bonnie Lou Schreiner, illustrated by Ron Pios
I Wish I Knew by Soha Abou Chacra
Moving by Linda Budge
There’s a Moose in My Juice by Joan Fitzgerald
The No Snow North Pole by Elena Schietinger, illustrated by Michael Perez
Alessia and the Lamb by Lorre Wisham, illustrated by Jazmyn Mejia
Tex the Explorer Journey to the Oceans by Ellie Smith, illustrated by Eyen Johnson
Could the Stars Stay Bright? by Basma Elkhatib
The Wolf Suit by Sid Sharp
Kraylos: The Power of Words by Bartholemew Williamson
Best Interior Design
1st Place: DanSing Pancakes’ Healthy Choices Musical Story by Joe Coleman, illustrated by Tracy F. Pyke
Best Photography
1st Place: Sonnet, Sonnet, What’s In Your Bonnet? by Sherry Roberts
Biography/Autobiography
1st Place: Bass Reeves: Legendary Lawman of the Wild West by Billie Holladay Skelley, illustrated by James Paul Skelley
2nd Place: You Have to Live, Why Not Win? by David Ketchen and Larry Thornton, illustrated by Dave Dodson
Honorable Mention:
Because of You, I lost Everything! by Jim Darnell, illustrated by Dawn Darnell
Thomas Hooker: Puritan Minister and Founder of the Connecticut Colony by Julia Kneeland, illustrated by Rebekah Budd
Board Books
1st Place: Fishy, Fishy by Brielle Lilygarten
2nd Place: What’s my Amplitude? by Teju Prasad, illustrated by Nadia Ronquillo
Honorable Mention:
Baby Longhorns by John Biemer, illustrated by Cynthia Meadows
Book Trailer
1st Place: Mom’s Not Wipin’ Your Bum by Lin Hawthorne, illustrated by Stevie Mahardhika
2nd Place: Adventures In Time 2: The Treasure by Arlene Timoney
Careers
1st Place: Who God Wants Me to Be by Crystal Bowman and Michelle Lazurek, illustrated by Sandra Eide
2nd Place: A Hero Answers 9-1-1 by Steve Frank Schubert
Chapter Books
1st Place: Naomi Nash: The Mystery of the Ball Python by Jessica Lee Anderson, illustrated by Alejandra Barajas
2nd Place: Sienna, a Wizard & the Magical Mice by Donald Schaeffer, illustrated by Zoe Ranucci
Honorable Mention:
The Dog Snatcher: Guardians of Time Book 1 by Phyllis Wheeler, illustrated by Katie O’Malley
Pillow Palace Princess by Laura Skidmore, illustrated by Giao Williams
Katy on Broadway by Ella English
The Whimsical Witch by Katherine Spencer, illustrated by Bettina Brasko
In Search of Sparkle: A Faerie Fairy Tale by Donna E. Lane
Cat McGillicutty Learns to Skateboard by Brian Phillips, illustrated by Jenette Phillips
Marlon and the Wide World by Dan Bailes
Peter and the Ants Pt1 - Read to Me by Gary Gedall
Teamwork! Betty the Iditarod Sled Dog by Jack Rotifer
Charity/Making a Difference
1st Place (tie): In My Heart: A Book About Kindness by Julie Nichole, illustrated by Blueberry Illustrations
1st Place (tie): Children Who Dance in the Rain by Susan Justice
2nd Place: Paisley’s Pay it Forward Adventure by Gail D. Nussbaum, illustrated by Nadia Ronquillo
Honorable Mention:
A Story of Whoa by Chris Corbett
Superheroes Here and There by Crystel Patterson, illustrated by Briana Young
Joni’s Wish by Jon Phillips, illustrated by Candace Camling
Let’s Celebrate Being Different by Lainey Dee
Let’s Talk! Learning to Bowl by Lisa Jacovsky
Benefelence the Elephence and the Wonderful You by Todd H. William, illustrated by Ilya Fortuna
The Hummingbird & The Narwhal by Annie Higbee
Making Friends With Feelings by Keith Ruffner, illustrated by Kate Gleyzer
Children’s Nonfiction
1st Place (tie): Pebbles and the Biggest Number by Joey Benun, illustrated by Laura Watson
1st Place (tie): Growing Up in the Dragonfly Zone by Marlana DeMarco Hogan
2nd Place: Wild about the Alphabet! (and Other Tales) by Mike Crowder
Honorable Mention:
Sonnet, Sonnet, What’s In Your Bonnet? by Sherry Roberts
A Penguin’s World by Patricia Gleichauf, illustrated by Karen Staszko
How Your Brain Learns to Read by Denise Eide, illustrated by Ingrid Hess
Science Matter and the Baseball Park by Catherine Ciocchi, illustrated by Chantelle and Bergen Thorne
Snow And Amur Leopards by Anna Grob
The Elements of Art: An Elementary Art Teacher’s Guide to Color, Shape, Texture & More! by Maren Daniels
Too Young to What? by Crystel Patterson, illustrated by Briana Young
Carlito Pizarras: Hero of the Tarsiers by Christine L. Villa, illustrated by Nonisel Sipalay
Biffy the Bunny by Marina Bonanno, illustrated by Amy Parsons Ellis
Hello, It’s Me! by Elena Schietinger
Nature Flow by Pamila Shanti and Neelam River
Bibi Yoga Story about Gratitude by Agnieszka Migew, illustrated by Ashleigh Heyns
Antoinette and the Story of the Invisible Giraffes by Alison McGregor
Rangeela Bhaarat (Colorful India): A bilingual, Hindi book about colors! by Neha Nabar
Rosie Finds Her Shine by Megan Rogers, illustrated by Megan Wilson
Collection of Short Stories
1st Place: Crimes, Covens & Curses by Sara Furlong
2nd Place: Squawk: A Book of Bird Adventures by Lorna Collins
Honorable Mention:
A Surreal Trilogy as Chicken Man, Pickle Man, and the Rat of Justice by Joseph Lupton
Cultural Diversity
1st Place (tie): Ebony and Her Crown by Nicole Marshall
1st Place (tie): Growing Up in the Torrone Zone by Marlana DeMarco Hogan
1st Place (tie): What the Bread Says by Vanessa Garcia, illustrated by Tim Palin
1st Place (tie): Growing Up in the Medieval Time Zone by Marlana DeMarco Hogan
1st Place (tie): Growing Up in the Pasta Zone by Marlana DeMarco Hogan
2nd Place (tie): Vivienne in Paris by Maria Castellucci Moore
2nd Place (tie): Maya Moves to a New Country by Pearl Alimo, illustrated by Sayani Mukherjee
Honorable Mention:
Kayla: A Modern-Day Princess: A Little Magic by Deedee Cummings, illustrated by Charlene Mosley
Kayla: A Modern-Day Princess: These Shoes are Made for Dancing by Deedee Cummings, illustrated by Charlene Mosley
Maria and the Magic of the Rainbow by Suzanna Lou Royse, illustrated by Keith Klein
My Words and I by Mary Ann Tyson-Arceneaux
You Have to Live, Why Not Win? by David Ketchen and Larry Thornton, illustrated by Dave Dodson
Islanders: The Pacific Chronicles by James Eldridge, illustrated by Richard Eldridge
The Adventures of The Soul Sistas by Newton Vanriel
Pretty Comes in All Shapes and Shades by Cindy Young, illustrated by Anisha Fernando
Mahalo Does Not Mean Trash by Aura Perkins
Millie Mammoth by Joan Enockson
The Case of the Missing Socks by Darlinda Jacobs
Fini: The Beauty of a Broken Shell by Melitta Santos, illustrated by El Creativo
Milko by Samuel Narh and Freda Narh, illustrated by Alisa Knatko
Trouble in the Middle by Nazli Koyl
Catalogue of Ripening by Sabrina Guo
Devin Speaks Up! by Devin Moore, illustrated by Sutekina Ame
In the Nick of Time Too by Deedee Cummings, illustrated by Charlene Mosley
It’s That TIme of Year! Holi is Here! by Vanessa Kapadia
Turning the Corner by Ruozhen Ma
Could My Neighbor Be A Prince? by Nicole Denise Smith, illustrated by Chris Padavano
Rangeela Bhaarat (Colorful India): A bilingual, Hindi book about colors! by Neha Nabar
The Arctic Quest by Minda Gomez
Everyone Can Dream: Always Dare to Dream by Dr. Chantele Mitchell-Miland, illustrated by Ramon Miland
Vamos a Camboya. Let’s go to Cambodia by Lina Zepeda
Early Readers
1st Place (tie): A Slug Inside My House by Miselle Goffman
1st Place (tie): Asha and Baz Meet Hedy Lamarr by Caroline Fernandez, illustrated by Dharmali Patel
1st Place (tie): Desert Friends (Travels with the Pack) by Linda Harkey, illustrated by Mike Minick
1st Place (tie): In My Heart: A Book About Kindness by Julie Nichole, illustrated by Blueberry Illustrations
2nd Place (tie): I Will Do My Best to Be On Time by Miselle Goffman
2nd Place (tie): Mom’s Not Wipin’ Your Bum by Lin Hawthorne, illustrated by Stevie Mahardhika
Honorable Mention:
Paddock by Winfield Murray, illustrated by HH Pax
Raindrops and Rainbow by Patti Hamilton
Asha and Baz Meet Mary Sherman Morgan by Caroline Fernandez, illustrated by Dharmali Patel
Little Freddit at the Kentucky Derby by Kathryn Cocquyt, illustrated by Julia Shchepeteva
Pagong: How the Turtle Got Its Shell by Mylene Leumin, illustrated by Stephanie Richoll
London Secrets by Laura Skidmore, illustrated by Giao Williams
Chicken in the City by Cindy Kovacik
Nurse Florence®, How Do We Feel Pain? by Michael Dow, illustrated by Alessa Baker
Wings of Glitter by Miranda Sada, illustrated by Rafael and Leilani Hasson
Bentley’s Dream by Sandra Harry, illustrated by Nikki Boetger
Pirates on Friday by Lindsay Zarse, illustrated by Brian Martin
Peter and the Ants Pt1 - Read to Me by Gary Gedall
Shipwrecked on Fudgepop Island by Jonathan R. Notis and Deborah Raider Notis, illustrated by Jennifer Kaye
Book of Bad Bargains by Laura Teste
Educational/Instructional
1st Place (tie): Edgar Allan Know and His Big Busy Brain by Rahni Varieur-Davies
1st Place (tie): Pebbles and the Biggest Number by Joey Benun, illustrated by Laura Watson
2nd Place: How To Make Your Sock Talk: A Beginner’s Guide To Ventriloquism by Jimmy Vee, illustrated by Peter Raymundo
Honorable Mention:
The Elements of Art: An Elementary Art Teacher’s Guide to Color, Shape, Texture & More! by Maren Daniels
Nurse Florence®, What are some Summer Safety Tips? by Michael Dow, illustrated by JoAnn Smith
What Is the Shape of My Egg? by Lisa M. Weckbacher, illustrated by Gabriela Vega
Jack’s Garage: Oil Maintenance for Kids by Jack Scudder, illustrated by Nita Candra
Meet the Birds by Rae Rankin, illustrated by J-San
Exercise/Fitness
1st Place: Ella’s Dance Debut by Once Upon a Dance
2nd Place: Would You Care to Join Our Team? by Miselle Goffman
Honorable Mention:
Corey and Abby Go to the Gym by Jay Blumberg, illustrated by Brian McQueen
Family Matters
1st Place (tie): How I Wonder Where You Are by Anna Maria DiDio, illustrated by Tatiana Lobanova
1st Place (tie): Maya Moves to a New Country by Pearl Alimo, illustrated by Sayani Mukherjee
2nd Place: We Find Joy: Cancer Messed with the Wrong Family by Charissa Bates, illustrated by Nadja Bullis
Honorable Mention:
My Silly Granny by Terri Leedom, illustrated by Michael Paustian
Harmony Dances On by Mandy Woolf
Story Swapping A Tale of a Naughty Puppy by Vassi Rombis, illustrated by Frances Rose Espanol
Milko by Samuel Narh and Freda Narh, illustrated by Alisa Knatko
Sadness is a Dark Cloud by Lauren Martin
When We Are Apart by Becca Johnsey, illustrated by Marizan
Magic Gifts by Marlene Bryenton, , illustrated by Allison Wolvers
Benji’s Springtime Surprise by Lynda Modell, , illustrated by Julia Ivanytska
It’s Okay to Be You! It’s Okay to Show Emotion Too! by Wynta Milton, illustrated by Laurentiu Dumitru
Moo and Bark by Pam Obi
Ryan Daniels: Good Night, Firefly by Dr. Ada Aguilar, illustrated by Tapoti Rani Sarkar
The Arctic Quest by Minda Gomez
Daisy the Angel by Melanie Ruiz
Food-Related
1st Place: What the Bread Says by Vanessa Garcia, illustrated by Tim Palin
2nd Place: Grow a Pizza Garden by John Benzee
General
1st Place: Benefelence the Elephence and the Wonderful You by Todd H. William, illustrated by Ilya Fortuna
2nd Place: Lotus Flowers and Superpowers by Julie Seel Renaud, illustrated by Brittany Jones
Honorable Mention:
Roxie, the Traveling Rocker by Becky Van Vleet, illustrated by Courtney Smith
The Forbearing Mage: The Adventures of Jack Wartnose by A.S. Norris
The Wayward Mage: The Adventures of Jack Wartnose by A.S. Norris
Nina’s Dear Moon by Crystal Luffberry
Global & Social Issues
1st Place: The Dreamer: The Girl Who Dreamed the War Over by Julie Fox and Tzuri King, illustrated by Natali Barbalat
2nd Place: The Antidotes: Pollution Solution by Patty Mechael
Honorable Mention:
What the Bread Says by Vanessa Garcia, illustrated by Tim Palin
Some Days He Growled by Nicole Kimball Ostrowski
Catalogue of Ripening by Sabrina Guo
Stay Safe with Ruby and Reuben by Sneha Sabu
Graphic Novel
1st Place: You Have to Live, Why Not Win? by David Ketchen and Larry Thornton, illustrated by Dave Dodson
Green Books/Environmental
1st Place (tie): Sam the Eco Robot & the Ghost Nets by Thassanee Wanick, illustrated by Teresa and Steven Geer
1st Place (tie): The Antidotes: Pollution Solution by Patty Mechael
2nd Place: Living Green and the Smoke: A story about air pollution, global warming and teamwork by Florian Bushy
Honorable Mention:
Lulu and Malek Sail Off to Sea! by June Foster and Rob Scheer, illustrated by Gill Guile
Mabel Meets a Black Bear by Frances Figart, illustrated by Jesse White
Nature’s Apprentices by Elizabeth Bekolay, illustrated by Jennifer Lynn Becker
Talbot the Turtle: The Plastic Ocean by Taylor Edwards
The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry by Rebecca Laxton, illustrated by Gracie Laxton
Legend Keepers: The Partnership by Bruce Smith
Anita’s National Park Cleanup by Krystine Cabrera, illustrated by Guilherme Salomon
The Fin-Tastic Rescue by Laura Mancuso, illustrated by Jenna Guidi
Catalogue of Ripening by Sabrina Guo
The No Snow North Pole by Elena Schietinger, illustrated by Michael Perez
Bondi & Poppy Help Heal the Planet by Judith Proffer, illustrated by Yoko Matsuoka
Sakari’s Adventure Under the Sea by Ashley Nevison
Growing Pains
1st Place: The Mindful Magician and the Trip to Feelings Town by Lauren Brukner, illustrated by Jennifer Jamieson
2nd Place: I Love You More Than Cereal: Maeva and Dad Redefine Love by Justin and Alexis Black
Honorable Mention:
Salmon Survivor by Christian Shane
Cool Kid Cason Is Angry by Chayla Cooper
The No-Phone Kid by Leonardo Lesage, illustrated by Kylie McCoy
Big Change, Better You, Beautiful World by Lindsey Frank
Melanie and the Box by James Thibeault, illustrated by Siiri Paton
My Little World by Dawn McLucas and Norma McLucas
Health
1st Place: DanSing Pancakes’ Healthy Choices Musical Story by Joe Coleman, illustrated by Tracy F. Pyke
2nd Place: Ellie on the Mat by Danielle Price, illustrated by Nana Gonzales
Honorable Mention:
The Superpower of Your HEART by Lindsey Frank
Gilly and the Garden by Donna Housman, illustrated by Renée Andriani
Facing Mighty Fears About Health by Dawn Huebner, illustrated by Liza Stevens
Lotus Flowers and Superpowers by Julie Seel Renaud, illustrated by Brittany Jones
Miles Smiles by Abby Patterson, illustrated by Wendy Leach
Benefelence the Elephence and the Wonderful You by Todd H. William, illustrated by Ilya Fortuna
Nurse Florence®, What is Bacterial Meningitis? by Michael Dow, illustrated by Lorie Brooker
Historical Fiction
1st Place: Mr. Washington’s Granite State Vacation by Angela Welch, illustrated by Sarah Boudreau
2nd Place: Aboard Blackbeard’s Queen by Robin Reams
Honorable Mention:
The Sea Witch’s Revenge: A Delta & Jax Mystery by Susan Diamond Riley
The Gold Hole Quest by Lindsay Zarse, illustrated by Stuart Parks
Historical Nonfiction
1st Place: Gracie and the Radar Girls by Karen J Moore, illustrated by Lyn Meredith
2nd Place: Bass Reeves: Legendary Lawman of the Wild West by Billie Holladay Skelley, illustrated by James Paul Skelley
Honorable Mention:
Thomas Hooker: Puritan Minister and Founder of the Connecticut Colony by Julia Kneeland, illustrated by Rebekah Budd
The Courageous Six Triple Eight by Dr. Artika R. Tyner, illustrated by Cynthia Paul
Holiday
1st Place: Love is in the Air by Karen Bobos, illustrated by Jazinel Libranda
2nd Place: A Santa for Everyone by Nicole Kimball Ostrowski
Honorable Mention:
Rosie Finds Her Shine by Megan Rogers, illustrated by Megan Wilson
Freester’s First Easter: A loving tale of friendship and kindness as the true spirit of Easter by Krishna Ramavat
In the Nick of Time Too by Deedee Cummings, illustrated by Charlene Mosley
Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus by Lauren Martin
Marvin the Mouse In Search of the Perfect Christmas Present by Jacquelyn Commander
Santa’s Wish by Kristina Rowlands, illustrated by Mia Lloyd
The No Snow North Pole by Elena Schietinger, illustrated by Michael Perez
I Have Questions, Lots and Lots of Questions by David Lane, illustrated by Caleb McBee
Ramadan with the Noor Family by Nermine Noeman and Salwa Elshazly, illustrated by Sarah Kashef
In Search of Christmas by James Richard Highsmith
Humor
1st Place: Mom’s Not Wipin’ Your Bum by Lin Hawthorne, illustrated by Stevie Mahardhika
2nd Place: When You Meet a Hangry Howard by Joe Ciccarelli, illustrated by Gary Ciccarelli
Honorable Mention:
My Very Punny Dad by Ryan Milligan, illustrated by Justin Castaneda
Desert Friends (Travels with the Pack) by Linda Harkey, illustrated by Mike Minick
Harold Goes to School by Philippa Rae, illustrated by Diego Cadena
Carl Corn: Have You Heard? by Joan Enockson
If Cats Could Talk: Laugh Together As You Go On A Spontaneous Adventure With Five Talking Cats by Ashley Marie, illustrated by Elizabeth Doudna
Malcolm Webster, (Aspiring) 5th-Grade Whiz Kid by Dakota Klaes
The Farting Machine: A Victim’s Revenge by Katherine Spencer, illustrated by Bettina Brasko
Letters, Journals
1st Place: Let Me Tell My Story: Journal for Kids with the Bayside Bunch by Dr. Unseld Robinson
LGBT
1st Place: I Don’t Like Blue by Lyric Faulder
2nd Place: Super Gay by Jessi Hersey, illustrated by Ray B
Middle Grade Fiction
1st Place (tie): Daphne Higginbotham Battles the Fifth Grade by Rosemary Starr
1st Place (tie): Food Fight by Linda B. Davis
1st Place (tie): Grady Whill and the Templeton Codex by Carole P. Roman
2nd Place: My Big Heart-Shaped Fail by Cindy Callaghan
Honorable Mention:
Maria and the Magic of the Rainbow by Suzanna Lou Royse, illustrated by Keith Klein
Summer of L.U.C.K. by Laura Segal Stegman
Sydney Mackenzie Knocks ‘Em Dead by Cindy Callaghan
Adventures In Time 2: The Treasure by Arlene Timoney
Geo by Topher Allen
Lucky At Bat by Alisse Lee Goldenberg and Joseph Goldenberg
Pack of the Lost: The Uninviting Forest by Nikita Kapoor
Salmon Survivor by Christian Shane
The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry by Rebecca Laxton, illustrated by Gracie Laxton
Ghost Girl by Patti M. Walsh
Islanders: The Pacific Chronicles by James Eldridge, illustrated by Richard Eldridge
Jordie and Joey Fell from the Sky by Judi Lauren
Medium Well Done by Eddie Jones
In Search of Sparkle: A Faerie Fairy Tale by Donna E. Lane
The Math Kids A Knotty Problem by David Cole, illustrated by Shannon O’Toole
The Math Kids An Artificial Test by David Cole, illustrated by Shannon O’Toole
Lemonade Lilli by Joan Enockson, illustrated by Jennifer Hansen
Chester and the Magic 8 Ball by Lynn Katz
Flower Power 2 Friendship Rules by Judy Lindquist
Katelyn’s Crow by Mary Beth Laufer, illustrated by Kathleen Phillips Poulsen
Second Hand Witch by Tonya Cartmell
The Amarisian Prophecies: The Reckoning by Zoe Nauman
The Antidotes: Pollution Solution by Patty Mechael
Turning the Corner by Ruozhen Ma
HurriCamp! by Steph Katzovi
The Purple Raccoon by Sara Furlong
Abby’s Pony Love by Susan Count, illustrated by Bev Johnson
The Prison for the Magically Cursed by Brett Perkins, illustrated by Ricky Gunawan
Kudzu’s Enormous New Life by Sidney Thompson
Schoolhouse Dogs Face Life by Dawn Renee Darnell and Jim H. Darnell Jr.
The Audacious Adventures of Drippy the Dragon by Michael Lunsford
The Magicians’ Convention by Elena Paige
Mystery
1st Place: Saltwater Secrets by Cindy Callaghan
2nd Place: The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry by Rebecca Laxton, illustrated by Gracie Laxton
Honorable Mention:
Crimes, Covens & Curses by Sara Furlong
Do You Know Who Killed Me? by Sara Furlong
The Case of the Missing Socks by Darlinda Jacobs
Deception in December by Doreen McAvoy
Shepherd’s Call: A Shepherd & Wolfe Mystery by Angie Counios
The Sea Witch’s Revenge: A Delta & Jax Mystery by Susan Diamond Riley
The Purple Raccoon by Sara Furlong
New Author: Fiction
1st Place: The Traveling Book by Charissa Bates, illustrated by Nadja Bullis
2nd Place: In My Heart: A Book About Kindness by Julie Nichole, illustrated by Blueberry Illustrations
Honorable Mention:
Big Rig Family Truckster: Adventures in Camper Truckin’ by Jennifer Mazzetta
Shiny Friends Super Squad: Starr of the Show by Leigh Alley, illustrated by Mark Hurry
Molly Shipton, Secret Actress by Sheri Graubert
Geckos in the Garden by Ruth Amanda
I Will Be ... by Susan Pivero, illustrated by Jo Renfro
Nature’s Apprentices by Elizabeth Bekolay, illustrated by Jennifer Lynn Becker
The Adventures of The Soul Sistas by Newton Vanriel
Pack of the Lost: The Uninviting Forest by Nikita Kapoor
Paddock by Winfield Murray, illustrated by HH Pax
A Very Important Trip by Darryl Busink
Bentley’s Dream by Sandra Harry, illustrated by Nikki Boetger
Binky the Bowerbird by Barb Cromie, illustrated by Nandina Vines
Ghost Girl by Patti M. Walsh
Malcolm Webster, (Aspiring) 5th-Grade Whiz Kid by Dakota Klaes
DanSing Pancakes’ Healthy Choices Musical Story by Joe Coleman, illustrated by Tracy F. Pyke
Fini: The beauty of a broken shell by Melitta Santos, illustrated by El Creativo
My Friend, the Marshmallow Man by Grant Vassos, illustrated by Michelle Simpson
The Adventure Begins by Clint Van Iseghem
The Bear and the Hug by Melissa Cannioto
Miles Smiles by Abby Patterson, illustrated by Wendy Leach
Benefelence the Elephence and the Wonderful You by Todd H. William, illustrated by Ilya Fortuna
Book of Bad Manners by Laura Teste
Sophie Won’t Sleep by Danielle Camer, illustrated by Tatsiana Burgaud
The Adventures of Little Luna by Hayley Denning
When You Meet a Hangry Howard by Joe Ciccarelli, illustrated by Gary Ciccarelli
Blue is the Only Color in the Rainbow by Deanna Hart, illustrated by Chrish Vindhy
Brady and the Backyard Monster by Pattie Manente, illustrated by Olena Kharkovenko
The Antidotes: Pollution Solution by Patty Mechael
The Hummingbird & The Narwhal by Annie Higbee
T-Rex Can’t Tie His Shoes by Andrea Whitmarsh, illustrated by Anastasia Merzlaya
Turning the Corner by Ruozhen Ma
Wimps of the Wild by Brooke C., illustrated by John Ramsey
HurriCamp! by Steph Katzovi
Squawk: A Book of Bird Adventures by Lorna Collins
Find Your Brave by Kristen Lloyd
Suzi and Sally The Golden Rule by Angi Brown and Cali Byram
The Purple Croc In An Orange Sock by Sally Longlegs
Alessia and the Lamb by Lorre Wisham, illustrated by Jazmyn Mejia
Home by Anastasia Romero
Alpaca Ranch Fun! by Jack Rotifer
Lulu the Beaver by Bethany Gano
Shipwrecked on Fudgepop Island by Jonathan R. Notis and Deborah Raider Notis, illustrated by Jennifer Kaye
The Adventures of the Bureau of the Missing Socks by Millicent Sutton
The Four Bears and the Wizard by William Gribble, illustrated by Tad Jackson
We Are Clouds by Ethan Warlick, illustrated by Kim Warlick
Lacinda the Lion is a Super Youneek Beast by Beth Davis
New Author: Nonfiction
1st Place (tie): Gracie and the Radar Girls by Karen J Moore, illustrated by Lyn Meredith
1st Place (tie): Pebbles and the Biggest Number by Joey Benun, illustrated by Laura Watson
2nd Place: Growing Up in the Dragonfly Zone by Marlana DeMarco Hogan
Honorable Mention:
Mom’s Not Wipin’ Your Bum by Lin Hawthorne, illustrated by Stevie Mahardhika
All Life Matters by Mary Lynne Zahler
Rangeela Bhaarat (Colorful India): A bilingual, Hindi book about colors! by Neha Nabar
Outdoor Recreation
1st Place: My First Duck Hunt by Beverly King, illustrated by Bex Sutton
2nd Place: Big Rig Family Truckster: Adventures in Camper Truckin’ by Jennifer Mazzetta
Honorable Mention:
Growing Up in the Dragonfly Zone by Marlana DeMarco Hogan
Growing Up in the Splash Zone by Marlana DeMarco Hogan
Salmon Survivor by Christian Shane
Snowy Prints by Catherine Nevin-Pike, illustrated by Phoebe Todd-Parrish
H is for Hunting by Kimberly Ondriska, illustrated by Siddhant Jumde
Picture Books 5 & Younger
1st Place (tie): Sam the Eco Robot & the Ghost Nets by Thassanee Wanick, illustrated by Teresa and Steven Geer
1st Place (tie): Lauren The Cow by T.I. Frazier, illustrated by Meritxell Andreu
1st Place (tie): What the Bread Says by Vanessa Garcia, illustrated by Tim Palin
1st Place (tie): Millie’s Rainbow by Hilary Hawkes, illustrated by Andrea Petrlik
2nd Place (tie): Mom’s Not Wipin’ Your Bum by Lin Hawthorne, illustrated by Stevie Mahardhika
2nd Place (tie): Find Your Brave by Kristen Lloyd
Honorable Mention:
1 2 3 Count with Me on Granddad’s Farm by Valerie Johnson, illustrated by Cee Biscoe
Anger by Rima Ismail
My Bumpy Lumpy Belly Button by Cindy Ninni Grant, illustrated by Katie Weaver
Rhyme Time ABC: An alphabet adventure from A to Z by May Killebrew Hanna
Roxie, the Traveling Rocker by Becky Van Vleet, illustrated by Courtney Smith
Remember This Always by Anna Ikeda, illustrated by Andrée Young
A Big Blue Boat by Susea Spray, illustrated by Lesley Cybulka
Fishy, Fishy by Brielle Lilygarten
Geckos in the Garden by Ruth Amanda
Lulu and Malek Sail Off to Sea! by June Foster and Rob Scheer, illustrated by Gill Guile
Riley Does Big Things by Janet Daigle, illustrated by Rick W. Knowles
Riley the Little Lost Corgi by Tammy Knudtson, illustrated by Robert Sauber
Wild about the Alphabet! (and Other Tales) by Mike Crowder
Chipper Sends Sunshine by Kimber Fox Morgan, illustrated by Kim Sponaugle
Ready... Set... Frog! by Katharine Mitropoulos, illustrated by Laura Watson
When You Meet a Hangry Howard by Joe Ciccarelli, illustrated by Gary Ciccarelli
Wilbur and the Watering Can by Cynthia L. Clark
Barker’s Wish by Dan Stern, illustrated by Iva Zugic
One Wave by Lauren Martin
Sam’s Stormy Night by Calum Greenall, illustrated by Ellie Lewis
The Adventure Begins by Clint Van Iseghem
The Bedtime Story Race by Shel Curry, illustrated by Hatice Bayramoglu
The Only Me by Marissa Bader, illustrated by Arlene Soto
Who You Are by Jessi Hersey, illustrated by Lizaveta Tarasiuk
Who’s New At Lou’s Zoo by JoAnn Dickinson, illustrated by Lauren Sparks
Princess Noa is Not Sorry by Ashley Brook
Abella Gets a New Hairdo! by Zane Carson Carruth
Rangeela Bhaarat (Colorful India): A bilingual, Hindi book about colors! by Neha Nabar
Sophie Won’t Sleep by Danielle Camer, illustrated by Tatsiana Burgaud
Slow Dog by Joy Johnston, illustrated by Lana Lee
Blue is the Only Color in the Rainbow by Deanna Hart, illustrated by Chrish Vindhy
Brady and the Backyard Monster by Pattie Manente, illustrated by Olena Kharkovenko
Elsewhere Bear by Isaac Bader
PinkyWinky by Lena LaRue, illustrated by Sammie Clark
Neurofables: Inclusion by Charlie Xavier and Jill Butler, illustrated by Colin Throm
Sadie Sasquatch Goes to School by C. James Sweeney
THE 7 Days: A Classic Nursery Rhyme Made New by Deborah Burns, illustrated by Cydney Bittner
The Purple Croc In An Orange Sock by Sally Longlegs
Up in the Air by J.B. Stockings, illustrated by Gaspar Sabater
Call Your Grandma by Nicole Denise Smith, illustrated by Chris Padavano
Grandpa’s Short Stories by Roger Williams, illustrated by Barbara Owczarek
Suzi and Sally The Missing Manners by Angi Brown and Cali Byram
We Are Clouds by Ethan Warlick, illustrated by Kim Warlick
Imagine Life (Earth’s Biomes) by Jeanette RD
My Name is Saajin Singh by Kuljinder Kaur Brar, illustrated by Samrath Kaur
The Bear on Grandfather’s Den Floor by John Patrick Hickey, illustrated by Emma Werch
Antoinette and the Story of the Invisible Giraffes by Alison McGregor
Cradle in the Wild by Linda Wilson, illustrated by 1000 Storybooks
Give You The World by C. Anne, illustrated by Alessandra Liane
Little Lovedog’s Long Walk Home by Barbara Valenza
Max Goes to Town by Cynthia L. Clark
Musical Soul Mates by Cindy B Witty, illustrated by Estelle Corke
My Aunt The Witch and the London Midnight Meet by Kelly Miles, illustrated by Dannii Summerfield
Ryan Daniels: Good Night, Firefly by Dr. Ada Aguilar, illustrated by Tapoti Rani Sarkar
Tex the Explorer Journey to the Oceans by Ellie Smith, illustrated by Eyen Johnson
The Alphabet Family and Friends A to Z by Lisa Narciso
The Four Bears and the Wizard by William Gribble, illustrated by Tad Jackson
Nosey by Katie Hallam, illustrated by Danica Publico
Robby the Dyslexic Taxi and the Airport Adventure by Lynn and Jonathan Greenberg
My Name is Cyrius by Jackie Ferrell, illustrated by Scott Ferrell
A Guide to Finding your Monster Best Friend by Sara Furlong, illustrated by Brady Warren
Oh, How I Wish by Ms. Kimms
The Little White Kitten and Her Little Red Mittens by Terrie Sizemore
Mira and the Lost Baby Whale by Jennifer Wang
Picture Books 6 & Older
1st Place (tie): Adeline Visits the Library by Meredith Johnson, illustrated by Mary Barrows
1st Place (tie): Pebbles and the Biggest Number by Joey Benun, illustrated by Laura Watson
1st Place (tie): Sam the Eco Robot & the Ghost Nets by Thassanee Wanick, illustrated by Teresa and Steven Geer
1st Place (tie): What the Bread Says by Vanessa Garcia, illustrated by Tim Palin
1st Place (tie): Edgar Allan Know and His Big Busy Brain by Rahni Varieur-Davies
2nd Place (tie): Desert Friends (Travels with the Pack) by Linda Harkey, illustrated by Mike Minick
2nd Place (tie): Love is in the Air by Karen Bobos
Honorable Mention:
Aqua Paws by Patricia Allieri, illustrated by Stella Maris
Blue is the Only Color in the Rainbow by Deanna Hart, illustrated by Chrish Vindhy
Lala and the Pond by The Rock (Lala y el Charco de la Piedra) by Susana Illera Martínez, illustrated by Natalia Jiménez Osorio
Lala. The Concert of Lights (El Concierto de las Luces) by Susana Illera Martínez, illustrated by Natalia Jiménez Osorio
Firefly Fran’s Fran-tastic Day by Kristin Ellis, illustrated by Brian Talbott
The No Snow North Pole by Elena Schietinger, illustrated by Michael Perez
A Yoga Storytelling Adventure: Kauhuhu by Kathe Hudson, illustrated by Jecoe Firmalan
Biggie and Birdie are Different (so what) by Karen Bell-Brege, illustrated by Darrin Brege
Cristobal Bull by Chris Corbett
Geckos in the Garden by Ruth Amanda
Goin’ Fishin’ by Terry Jackson, illustrated by Jason Fowler
Hope and Fortune by Marissa Bañez, illustrated by Santiago Cornejo
How Your Brain Learns to Read by Denise Eide, illustrated by Ingrid Hess
Lulu the Beaver by Bethany Gano
Moby Plays the Flute by Eeha Bhatt
My Violin Is Not Broken? by Evelyn Grundy
Riley Does Big Things by Janet Daigle, illustrated by Rick W. Knowles
Riley the Little Lost Corgi by Tammy Knudtson, illustrated by Robert Sauber
The Legend of the Fairy Stones by Janet Toonen
Wild about the Alphabet! (and Other Tales) by Mike Crowder
Ishkabibble Unafraid by Cindi Handley Goodeaux, illustrated by Jack Foster
Paddock by Winfield Murray, illustrated by HH Pax
A Time to Fly by Diann Floyd Boehm, illustrated by Nancy Hoover
A Very Important Trip by Darryl Busink
Chipper Sends Sunshine by Kimber Fox Morgan, illustrated by Kim Sponaugle
Lala. A Different Kind of Lizard (Una lagartija diferente) by Susana Illera Martínez, illustrated by Natalia Jiménez Osorio
The Only Me by Marissa Bader, illustrated by Arlene Soto
Brady and the Backyard Monster by Pattie Manente, illustrated by Olena Kharkovenko
Embarrassing George by Kimber Fox Morgan, illustrated by Jessica Kwan
Mischievous Tommy by Bonnie Lou Schreiner
Proud to Be Me by Kim Farrell
The Accidental Orchestra by Aniela Emma Chaudhuri, illustrated by Daniel McCloskey
The Elements of Art: An Elementary Art Teacher’s Guide to Color, Shape, Texture & More! by Maren Daniels
The Kindness Quilt by Indigo Johnson
Kayla: A Modern-Day Princess: These Shoes are Made for Dancing by Deedee Cummings, illustrated by Charlene Mosley
Benefelence the Elephence and the Wonderful You by Todd H. William, illustrated by Ilya Fortuna
Geraldine and the Rainbow Machine by Sol Regwan, illustrated by Denise Muzzio
Mr Washington’s Granite State Vacation by Angela Welch, illustrated by Sarah Boudreau
The Adventures of Grandmasaurus at the Supermarket by Caroline Fernandez, illustrated by Shannon O’Toole
Turning Pennies Into Dimes (Doc the Wolf) by Kevin Chu
When You Meet a Hangry Howard by Joe Ciccarelli, illustrated by Gary Ciccarelli
Alien’s Homework by Tarif Youssef-Agha, illustrated by Aashay Utkarsh
Alitaptap A Philippine Myth Of The Firefly by Mylene Leumin, illustrated by Stephanie Richoll
Seraphina Ballerina by Sara Robinson, illustrated by Celina Guerra
Sneaky Snobby by Jennifer Kvam, illustrated by Sarah Joy Kvam
In Shape by Terry Jackson, illustrated by Jason Fowler
Nelly the Jelly and Camille the Eel Find the Lost City of Atlantis by John DeGuire, MD
Nelly the Jelly and Camille the Eel Visit the Bermuda Triangle by John DeGuire
Nelly the Jelly and Camille the Eel’s Outer Space Adventure by John DeGuire, MD
Nurse Florence®, How Do We Feel Touch? by Michael Dow, illustrated by Erin Miller
Rangeela Bhaarat (Colorful India): A bilingual, Hindi book about colors! by Neha Nabar
Special Ed meets Kennedy by Michelle Kaiser
The Adventures of Connor the Courageous Cutter, The Blinding Blizzard by Scott McBride and Rod Thompson, illustrated by Brian Martin
You Can Hear Me ‘Patrice Finds A Friend’ by Judie Nance, illustrated by Ray Russotto
Nicky, A Boy’s Furry Companion by Bonnie Lou Schreiner
A Guide to Finding your Monster Best Friend by Sara Furlong, illustrated by Brady Warren
Melusine Birds of Many Feathers by Geraldine Oades-Sese, illustrated by Franchesca Guerrero
My Little World by Dawn McLucas and Norma McLucas
Special Ed and the Baby Sister by Michelle Kaiser
Special Ed and the Bull-ies by Michelle Kaiser
Just Call Me Jupiter by Ethan Delatte and Dr. Lily Delatte, illustrated by Sastra Noor
Book of Best Words by Laura Teste
Maggie, the Dog with a Heart: The Adventures of a Jack Russell Terrier Book 1: Becoming Maggie by Catherine Fitzgerald, illustrated by Mary Delaney
Grandpa’s Short Stories by Roger Williams, illustrated by Barbara Owczarek
Nelly the Jelly and Camille the Eel’s Deep Sea Adventure by John DeGuire, MD and Hendrix Nash Hackett
Toby’s Big Adventure by Bonnie Lou Schreiner, illustrated by Ron Pios
Unicorn for a Day by Golan Vaknin, illustrated by Margaret Breen
Max the Mine in Secret Agent Max by Mike Johannes, illustrated by Holly Johannes
Parmesan Pig by Ben Barrowman, illustrated by Alexis Eastburn
Making Friends With Feelings by Keith Ruffner, illustrated by Kate Gleyzer
Otis the Trash Talking Octopus by Gina Giordano
The Naughty Angel by Gillena Cox, illustrated by Jiliane Vilches
Alessia and the Lamb by Lorre Wisham, illustrated by Jazmyn Mejia
All the Queen’s Crowns by Susan Manzke, illustrated by Remesh Ram
Burt: the Airport Cat by Christine Henry
Disgust Makes Me Sick by Dr. Moose, illustrated by Persephone Jayne
Ellie Visits the Dentist by Katie Specht, illustrated by Creative Illustrations Studio
Hello, Can I Bug You? by Sherry Roberts, illustrated by Marta Taylor
Lacinda the Lion is a Super Youneek Beast by Beth Davis
Peter and the Ants Pt1 - Read to Me by Gary Gedall
Teddy’s RUFF Day! by Sandie Leigh McCullough
Tex the Explorer Journey to the Oceans by Ellie Smith, illustrated by Eyen Johnson
The Alphabet Family and Friend A to Z “At Work” by Lisa Narciso
My Soul Treasure by Kate Searle, illustrated by Alison Mutton
Tina the First Tooth Fairy by Bruce Scharschmidt, illustrated by Mathilde Millot
Dancing with the Spirit of The Golden Tiger by Donna Zhang, illustrated by QBN Studios
Poetry
1st Place: Welcome to Monsterville by Laura Shovan, illustrated by Michael Rothenberg
2nd Place: Snowy Prints by Catherine Nevin-Pike, illustrated by Phoebe Todd-Parrish
Honorable Mention:
Growing Up in the Dragonfly Zone by Marlana DeMarco Hogan
Mr Washington’s Granite State Vacation by Angela Welch, illustrated by Sarah Boudreau
The Magic of Plants with Mo the Garden Fairy by Aunt Jenni
Catalogue of Ripening by Sabrina Guo
Rhymes for Small and Large by Tom Hindley
Moving by Linda Budge
Remember the Flowers by Enni Harlan
I Like Mud: and other poems for the young and young-at-heart by Margaret Grote
Grandma Goose Storybook Rhymes by January Joyce
School Issues
1st Place (tie): Middle School: Safety Goggles Advised by Jessica Speer, illustrated by Lesley Imgart
1st Place (tie): A Boy Called Chipmunk by Judy Goelitz
1st Place (tie): Shiny Friends Super Squad: Starr of the Show by Leigh Alley, illustrated by Mark Hurry
2nd Place (tie): Becoming Bully Proof by Rich Grogan
2nd Place (tie): Blooming Rose Blasts Off by Lauren Piland, illustrated by Kristen Humphrey
Honorable Mention:
Maria and the Magic of the Rainbow by Suzanna Lou Royse, illustrated by Keith Klein
Schoolhouse Dogs Face Life by Dawn Renee Darnell and Jim H. Darnell Jr.
Theo’s Deliciously Different Dumplings by Donna Housman, illustrated by Renée Andriani
Disappointment is a Wave by Lauren Martin
Piper by Arielle Haughee, illustrated by Marina Veselinovic
Philomena and the Name Game by Paola Benevento, illustrated by Lauren Cameron, Mellina DeSilvio, Mario Melendez-Telles
You Can Hear Me ‘Patrice Finds A Friend’ by Judie Nance, illustrated by Ray Russotto
Embarrassing George by Kimber Fox Morgan, illustrated by Jessica Kwan
I Absolutely Love My Curly Hair by Miselle Goffman
Let’s Celebrate Being Different by Lainey Dee
Kayla: A Modern-Day Princess: A Little Magic by Deedee Cummings, illustrated by Charlene Mosley
Sneaky Snobby by Jennifer Kvam, illustrated by Sarah Joy Kvam
Carl Corn: Have You Heard? by Joan Enockson
Let’s Welcome a New Friend by Miselle Goffman
Harold Goes to School by Philippa Rae, illustrated by Diego Cadena
I Am Different by Crystel Patterson, illustrated by Briana Young
Special Ed and the Bull-ies by Michelle Kaiser
Special Ed meets Kennedy by Michelle Kaiser
Turning the Corner by Ruozhen Ma
Who Says We Can’t Be Friends? by Kimberly Waters
Friends No Matter What by Kim Heaton Ramsay
Pa’s Hockey Sweater by Tonya Cartmell
Special Ed and the Baby Sister by Michelle Kaiser
Hello, Can I Bug You? by Sherry Roberts, illustrated by Marta Taylor
Life-affirming stories of Tony the Pony and his friends by Richard Carlisle and Elisa Carlisle, illustrated by Olena Zavitaylo
Moo and Bark by Pam Obi
Ryan Daniels: Good Night, Firefly by Dr. Ada Aguilar, illustrated by Tapoti Rani Sarkar
The Farting Machine: A Victim’s Revenge by Katherine Spencer, illustrated by Bettina Brasko
I Love Me! There’s No One I’d Rather Be by Wynta Milton, illustrated by Hayley Moore
Science Fiction/Fantasy
1st Place: Find Me in the Time Before by Robin Stevens Payes
2nd Place: Time Story by W.W. Marplot
Honorable Mention:
Geo by Topher Allen
Do You Know Who Killed Me? by Sara Furlong
DanSing Pancakes’ Healthy Choices Musical Story by Joe Coleman, illustrated by Tracy F. Pyke
A Dream of Magic by Claire Zhong, illustrated by Grace Xiang
Adventures In Time 2: The Treasure by Arlene Timoney
Special Needs/Disability Awareness
1st Place: The Mindful Magician and the Trip to Feelings Town by Lauren Brukner, illustrated by Jennifer Jamieson
2nd Place: Medieval Mashup by Charlene McIver, illustrated by Caroline Keys
Honorable Mention:
My Silly Granny by Terri Leedom, illustrated by Michael Paustian
The Pony Who Wanted to Be a Unicorn by Leland P. Gamson, illustrated by Betsy Bleed
Violet’s Victory by Valerie Goldstein, illustrated by Alejandro Echavez
“Later,” Said Gator by Carli Valentine
Seth and the Secret of the Butterfly by Sally Grayson Chinn, illustrated by Harriet Anderson, Carolyn Turner, Cindy Moore
Joni’s Wish by Jon Phillips, illustrated by Candace Camling
Song of the Sea by Meredith Leigh Burton
T-Rex Can’t Tie His Shoes by Andrea Whitmarsh, illustrated by Anastasia Merzlaya
Squishy Sand by Charlene McIver, illustrated by Caroline Keys
Kids of Courage Camp Adventures: Kim’s Challenge by Kim Spence-Bollinger, illustrated by Alexis Bollinger
Kudzu’s Enormous New Life by Sidney Thompson
Mykal the Monkey is a Super Youneek Beast by Beth Davis
Spiritual/Religious
1st Place: Who God Wants Me to Be by Crystal Bowman and Michelle Lazurek, illustrated by Sandra Eide
2nd Place: The Circle of Hugs by Heather Cosimo, illustrated by Hiruni Kariyawasam
Honorable Mention:
One Wave by Lauren Martin
It’s That Time of Year! Diwali is Here! by Vanessa Kapadia
The Very Scary Pajama Drama (Daniel in the Lions’ Den) by Claudia West, illustrated by Elettra Cudignotto
Ramadan with the Noor Family by Nermine Noeman and Salwa Elshazly, illustrated by Sarah Kashef
Sassy Discovers the AME Church by B. A. Johnson
Alessia and the Lamb by Lorre Wisham, illustrated by Jazmyn Mejia
Come See Me in My Dreams by Stephanie Grayson, illustrated by Ada Walman
A is for Anthony: An Alphabet of Saints and Animals by Teresa Traver, illustrated by Miguel Lopez
Sports
1st Place: One Flip, Two Flip, Three Flip, Four by Crystel Patterson, illustrated by Briana Young
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math)
1st Place: Pebbles and the Biggest Number by Joey Benun, illustrated by Laura Watson
2nd Place: Tay Goes to STEM Camp by Phelicia Lang
Honorable Mention:
Geo by Topher Allen
Oh, No ... Hacked Again!: A Story About Online Safety by Zinet Kemal
What Is the Shape of My Egg? by Lisa M. Weckbacher, illustrated by Gabriela Vega
Science Matter and the Baseball Park by Catherine Ciocchi, illustrated by Chantelle and Bergen Thorne
Nina Shiner Wants to be a Web Designer by Kathy Childs
The Antidotes: Pollution Solution by Patty Mechael
What’s my Amplitude? by Teju Prasad, illustrated by Nadia Ronquillo
Young Adult Fiction
1st Place: The Stallion and His Peculiar Boy by M.J. Evans
2nd Place: The Adventures of Ruby Pi and the Math Girls by Tom Durwood, illustrated by Mai Nguyen
Honorable Mention:
Faded Glimpses of Time by Nyah Nichol
Grady Whill and the Templeton Codex by Carole P. Roman
The Amarisian Prophecies: The Reckoning by Zoe Nauman
The Forbearing Mage: The Adventures of Jack Wartnose by A.S. Norris
The Wayward Mage: The Adventures of Jack Wartnose by A.S. Norris
Eira’s Book of Magic by Camellia White
Find Me in the Time Before by Robin Stevens Payes
Mosquito Creek Inn by Sherrie Todd-Beshore
Life-affirming stories of Tony the Pony and his friends by Richard Carlisle and Elisa Carlisle, illustrated by Olena Zavitaylo
Lightning Butterflies by Jim Darnell, illustrated by Dawn Darnell
Youth Author Fiction
1st Place: A Dream of Magic by Claire Zhong, illustrated by Grace Xiang
2nd Place: Sakari’s Adventure Under The Sea by Ashley Nevison
Honorable Mention:
Turning the Corner by Ruozhen Ma
Youth Author Nonfiction
1st Place: Rangeela Bhaarat (Colorful India): A bilingual, Hindi book about colors! by Neha Nabar
2nd Place: Catalogue of Ripening by Sabrina Guo