2026 Winners
PRINTED BOOKS
Grand Prize Winner
So You Want To Be A... series
by Linda Soules
$100 Drawing Winner
Where’s Winnie?
by Beth Nicole Hynes, illustrated by Polya Bulba
Activity Books
1st Place (tie): Vinny’s World Tour - An Adventure In Imagination by Jacqueline Wallace
1st Place (tie): The Queerly Autistic Workbook: The Ultimate Workbook and Journal for LGBTQIA+ Teens on the Spectrum by Erin Ekins, illustrated by Victoria Barron
2nd Place: Leafy Sea Dragon I Spy ABCs by Eileen Piecczonka, illustrated by Rita Goldner
Honorable Mention:
Journal with Tia: Explore Feelings, Imagination, and Adventure by Rashmi Chaudhary
Magic Propeller Cap Adventure Journal by Mary Nielsen, illustrated by Dacil Curbelos
Mooky & Me by Pebbles Wireman
My Sight Word Workbook by Vontavia J. Heard
Pitty the Kitty’s Cat Care Notebook by Mary Nielsen, illustrated by Matt Gonya
Animals/Pets
1st Place (tie): A Puppy’s Tale by Grant Merritt, illustrated by Elena Ciolacu
1st Place (tie): Curly Cat the Acrobat by Jennifer Somervell, illustrated by Zerika van Jaarsveld
1st Place (tie): dog + girl by Maria Murillo, illustrated by Juli Litkei
1st Place (tie): Jasper the Brave by Lisa Mueller
1st Place (tie): Into the Thicket by Gail Kuhnlein, illustrated by John Megahan
1st Place (tie): So You Want To Be a Marine Biologist by Linda Soules
1st Place (tie): So You Want To Be a Shark Researcher by Linda Soules
1st Place (tie): So You Want To Be a Veterinarian by Linda Soules
1st Place (tie): So You Want To Be a Zookeeper by Linda Soules
2nd Place (tie): RATS With Backpacks: Dr. Donna Kean and Her Work at APOPO by Jeanmarie Courtney
2nd Place (tie): The Horses of Saddlers Ranch: Cloud (Book One) by Alison Bellringer
2nd Place (tie): The Strange, Scary Bird - Who Wasn’t Scary After All by Julie Sormark
Honorable Mention:
Apollo the Angora Goat and His Friends - Book 2 by Michele McCoy
Arnold’s Pants by Briana London
Athena the Anxious Shepherd by Judy Nole and Chloe Renee, illustrated by Joana Periera
Athena’s Special Valentine by Judy Nole and Chloe Renee, illustrated by Joana Periera
Bella’s Beautiful Spots by Laura Ball
Brownie’s Adventures - Island Tales of a Dog from Trinidad by Manuela Giger, illustrated by Gabriella D’Abreau
Charlie Sees the Mountain by Elizabeth Sarber
Cocoa The Little Lost Dachshund by James H. Esker Jr.
Country Club Coyote by Shannon McFarlin, illustrated by Stacey Reine Eddy
Cuna en la Naturaleza by Linda Wilson
Fetti and the Forest by Jess N
Floo Flocky Doo to the Rescue by David Gillespie
Fun Day with Misa / Un Dia Divertido con Misa by Mireya Saldúa, illustrated by Cleofe Pacaña
Garbage Squirrel by Megan Deliberto, illustrated by Tiemoko Sylla
Here Comes Bella by Seth Karnes, illustrated by Nadica Zlatkova
HI! I’m Cher. I Go Everywhere!: A Mindfulness Book for Children and Their Grownups by Jane Enright Winn and Karen Rando-Nehmad, illustrated by Monica Joy
HI! I’m Cher. I Go Everywhere!: Hello Spring! by Jane Enright Winn and Karen Rando-Nehmad, illustrated by Monica Joy
How Stella Blue Finds Her Furever Home by Sandra Bolan, illustrated by Morgan Ball
Humphrey the Hopeful Helper by Marcie Davis, illustrated by Ros Webb
I Have Feelings, Too: Understanding Dog Communication by Anissa Svoboda, illustrated by Aneta Knoppova
Life on the Ranch with Banjo by Jean Petersen, illustrated by Melanie Fabrizius
Lunacorn by Rachel DeCarlo, illustrated by Jess Burbank
Melting Zoo by Autumn Film, illustrated by Shunsuke Hirose
Meowtastical: A New World by Kenzie Roach
My Special Friend: Adventures at the Zoo by Cara Hyman, illustrated by Amy Zhing
Nosferabbitu by BigKat Manning
Ntombi, A Rhino’s Story by Tracy Lee May
Pablo by Mar Andersons, illustrated by Irvin Walkes
Pack of Hearts by Danette Vigilante
Problems with Pooski by Sharon O’Flaherty, illustrated by Gennel Marie Sollano
Roxie and the Naughty Corner by Judy Nole and Chloe Renee, illustrated by Joana Periera
Sally the Brave by Brittany Petish
Sly in the City: Philadelphia by Alicia Andaloro
Sunny and the Round Things by Jennia D’Lima, illustrated by Maxine Fourie
The Castoff Canine by Jeannette Greulach, illustrated by Amanda Morena
The Moose Smooch by Stacy Taylor, illustrated by Bego Corbalan
The Saint Bernards Grow a Garden by Elaina Firman
The Tail That Told the Truth by Jory Perry
Tia: The Cat with Curly Whiskers by Jenny Crossley
Tiny Bird by Sabrina Edralin
Together We Are a Pizza Pie! by Anastasia Paradzhanova, illustrated by Carla Buratti
Undersea Jubilee by Connie Dow, illustrated by Sarah Yager
Upstream by Al Atkinson, illustrated by Dave O’Connell
Vinny Goes to Therapy by Brittany Gianfagna, illustrated by Gaby Martinez Huesca
Where’s Winnie? by Beth Nicole Hynes, illustrated by Polya Bulba
Whiskers and Wishes: The Adventures of Sven and Oley by Mary Nielsen, illustrated by Cassidy Kendrick
Yoshi’s Roadtrip by Judy Nole and Chloe Renee, illustrated by Joana Periera
Animated Children’s Book
1st Place: Lily’s Mysterious Odyssey by Anne Lacourrege, illustrated by Joshua Wichterich
2nd Place: Germs by Grant Kurzman
Honorable Mention:
Sleepy Town by Tiffanie Ronette
Stay Spooky Trick Ghastly by Trick Ghastly, illustrated by Scary Styles
Arts/Music
1st Place (tie): Songs About Fairytales by Lisa Monde, illustrated by Scott Lilly
1st Place (tie): So You Want To Be A Singer by Linda Soules
1st Place (tie): So You Want To Be A Voice Actor by Linda Soules
1st Place (tie): So You Want To Be An Actor by Linda Soules
2nd Place: Earworm by Adriana Bravo, illustrated by María Tutí
Honorable Mention:
Magic Marc the Songwriter by Andrew Szeto
Audiobooks
1st Place: Songs About Fairytales by Lisa Monde, illustrated by Scott Lilly
2nd Place: Lola Gillette and the Summer of Second Chances by Kimberly Kenna
Honorable Mention:
Caterpillarland by Roxanne Beck, illustrated by Jessica Flores
Fun Day with Misa / Un Dia Divertido con Misa by Mireya Saldúa, illustrated by Cleofe Pacaña
Making Her Way: Butterfly Princess Book 5 by Alisa Hope Wagner, illustrated by Albert Morales
Best Cover Design
1st Place (tie): Where’s Winnie? by Beth Nicole Hynes, illustrated by Polya Bulba
1st Place (tie): The Power of Encouragement Turning “I Can’t” into “I Can” by Ruth Maille, illustrated by Pardeep Mehre
2nd Place: Lily’s Mysterious Odyssey by Anne Lacourrege, illustrated by Joshua Wichterich
Honorable Mention:
Pogan Pigglio and The Magic Garden by Debra Patrick, illustrated by Cheryl Elmo
¿Quién muerde en la página verde? by Mar Romera, illustrated by Maria Konstantinova
A is for Agates - A Lake Superior Alphabet Book by Patti Baraks, illustrated by Lisa Perrin-Kosmo
An Unexpected Adventure by Simone Majetich, illustrated by Francis Eusebio
Curly Cat the Acrobat by Jennifer Somervell, illustrated by Zerika van Jaarsveld
Fun Day with Misa / Un Dia Divertido con Misa by Mireya Saldúa, illustrated by Cleofe Pacaña
Garbage Squirrel by Megan Deliberto, illustrated by Tiemoko Sylla
Grandma’s Blue Bucket by Valerie E Fritz, illustrated by Pranisha Shrestha
Happystarville: Jackson & Sydney’s Quest for the Sacred Unicorn by Ase Omavuaye Otite, illustrated by German Varona
I Bet I Can Make You Yawn by Alison Frenz, illustrated by Audrey Kennedy
Lilac and the Switchback by Cordelia Jensen
Meteor Matter by Lena Bee, illustrated by Naudia Ronquillo
Mimos y sueños para los más pequeños by Mar Romera, illustrated by Mika Ago
My Rainbow Days by Lena Bee, illustrated by Jesse Navarrette
The Grumpus Among Us by Sharon Miller, illustrated by Ashleigh Heyns
The Horses of Saddlers Ranch: Cloud (Book One) by Alison Bellringer
The Tissue Issue: Ariel and the Dirty, Yucky, Icky, Sticky, Stinky Tissue by Jamie Kucia
Best Illustrations
1st Place (tie): Queen Bea by Scott Evan Davis, illustrated by Tadgh Bentley
1st Place (tie): At the Ragtag Hotel: The Elevator Ride by Freya Novak, illustrated by Anastasiya Halionka
1st Place (tie): The Grumpus Among Us by Sharon Miller, illustrated by Ashleigh Heyns
2nd Place: The Moose Smooch by Stacy Taylor, illustrated by Bego Corbalan
Honorable Mention:
¿Quién muerde en la página verde? by Mar Romera, illustrated by Maria Konstantinova
A is for Agates - A Lake Superior Alphabet Book by Patti Baraks, illustrated by Lisa Perrin-Kosmo
A Strange Sound: A gentle, rhyming picture book about curiosity, kindness, and finding love by Olive Green, illustrated by Dainius Šukys
An Unexpected Adventure by Simone Majetich, illustrated by Francis Eusebio
Athena the Anxious Shepherd by Judy Nole and Chloe Renee, illustrated by Joana Periera
Athena’s Special Valentine by Judy Nole and Chloe Renee, illustrated by Joana Periera
Chris Kringle and the Jingle Squad by Sheryl Hilton, illustrated by Nia Quin
Cody’s Whisper by Malia Grace, illustrated by Lauren Reeves
Curly Cat the Acrobat by Jennifer Somervell, illustrated by Zerika van Jaarsveld
Fun Day with Misa / Un Dia Divertido con Misa by Mireya Saldúa, illustrated by Cleofe Pacaña
Germs by Grant Kurzman
Grandma’s Blue Bucket by Valerie E Fritz, illustrated by Pranisha Shrestha
HI! I’m Cher. I Go Everywhere!: A Mindfulness Book for Children and Their Grownups by Jane Enright Winn and Karen Rando-Nehmad, illustrated by Monica Joy
HI! I’m Cher. I Go Everywhere!: Hello Spring! by Jane Enright Winn and Karen Rando-Nehmad, illustrated by Monica Joy
In Grenada, What do you see? by Michelle Hood-Julien, illustrated by Valeria Kornus
Into the Thicket by Gail Kuhnlein, illustrated by John Megahan
Joyful Noise: The Sound of a Tea Kettle by Kimberly Wilson, illustrated by Deshawn Daugherty
La cigarra y la hormiga by Elena Busse, illustrated by Ekaterina Ilchenko
La zorra y el cuervo by Elena Busse, illustrated by Ekaterina Ilchenklo
Lexi the Butterfly by Sherri Crandall, illustrated by Beth Snider
Making Her Way: Butterfly Princess Book 5 by Alisa Hope Wagner, illustrated by Albert Morales
Marilu Goes to Work by Sonia Strockyj, illustrated by Folks Nfable
Meant to BEE (Brave, Educated, Empowered) by Lisa Lawson
My Rainbow Days by Lena Bee, illustrated by Jesse Navarrette
Pogan Pigglio and The Magic Garden by Debra Patrick, illustrated by Cheryl Elmo
Roxie and the Naughty Corner by Judy Nole and Chloe Renee, illustrated by Joana Periera
Rusty the Ringtail by Thomas Lopez, illustrated by Kurniawan Pangestu
Santa’s Christmas Gift by Samantha Geernaert
Snow on the Mountains by Rebekah Eyre, illustrated by Bethany Bartholomew
Stay Spooky Trick Ghastly by Trick Ghastly, illustrated by Scary Styles
Ten Baby Foxes by Diane Nolan, illustrated by Jessica Daigle
The Adventures of Belle Bear by Kathy Akopov Guillory, illustrated by Nathalie Ortega
The Amazing Journey of Reyna the Rufous Hummingbird by Pamela Cannalte, illustrated by Steven Beutler
The Best Bunny: Adventures of Lil Shen and Her Inspirational Sidekick Bunny Best by Shenandoah Chefalo, illustrated by Alena Tkach
The Christmas Leprechaun by Wizard Penfield, illustrated by Anastasia Dragunova
The Clever Bunny (Who Wasn’t - Yet!) by Evi Marami, illustrated by Marilina Skarpeta
The Misadventures of Minnie the Monarch: Journey to the Butterfly Forest by Millicent Sutton, illustrated by Joshua Wichterich
The Power of Encouragement Turning “I Can’t” into “I Can” by Ruth Maille, illustrated by Pardeep Mehre
The Tissue Issue: Ariel and the Dirty, Yucky, Icky, Sticky, Stinky Tissue by Jamie Kucia
Together We Are a Pizza Pie! by Anastasia Paradzhanova, illustrated by Carla Buratti
Where’s Winnie? by Beth Nicole Hynes, illustrated by Polya Bulba
Yoshi’s Roadtrip by Judy Nole and Chloe Renee, illustrated by Joana Periera
Your Greatest Adventure Is Yet To Come by Simone Majetich, illustrated by Jecoe Firmalan
Best Interior Design
1st Place: ¿Quién muerde en la página verde? by Mar Romera, illustrated by Maria Konstantinova
2nd Place: Chris Kringle and the Jingle Squad by Sheryl Hilton, illustrated by Nia Quin
Honorable Mention:
An Unexpected Adventure by Simone Majetich, illustrated by Francis Eusebio
Curly Cat the Acrobat by Jennifer Somervell, illustrated by Zerika van Jaarsveld
Stay Spooky Trick Ghastly by Trick Ghastly, illustrated by Scary Styles
The Power of Encouragement Turning “I Can’t” into “I Can” by Ruth Maille, illustrated by Pardeep Mehre
The Tissue Issue: Ariel and the Dirty, Yucky, Icky, Sticky, Stinky Tissue by Jamie Kucia
Biography/Memoir
Honorable Mention: Find Your Smile by Sarah Zhou
Board Books
1st Place: Hello, Little Hearts by Brittany Petish
2nd Place: Dash and the Lights in the Sky by Ashley Key
Honorable Mention:
Halloween by Jonathan Bernstein & Ecko Nesbit, illustrated by Natalia Berezina
Careers
1st Place: So You Want To Be A... series by Linda Soules
2nd Place: Charli’s Turtle Triumph: A Marine Biology Adventure by Vicki Scott Burns, illustrated by Mel Schroeder
Honorable Mention
The Career for Me from A to Z by Dana Edwards, illustrated by Sekar Azahra
Wynn Parker is an Electrician Today by Jennifer Lynn, illustrated by Katherine Henriott-Jauw
Chapter Books
1st Place: Pack of Hearts by Danette Vigilante
2nd Place: Shaila Holmes Fairy Detective by Lori Keating, illustrated by Kyria McKie
Honorable Mention:
Annalise and the Woman in the Cloud by Angelic McDowall, illustrated by Claryssa Forde
Blair & The Forgotten Flames: A Lubadoos Adventure by Valerie Silveira, illustrated by Clara Barbeito
Charli’s Turtle Triumph: A Marine Biology Adventure by Vicki Scott Burns, illustrated by Mel Schroeder
Fiddlesticks: A Tale for Christmas Eve by Amanda Jane Lowles, illustrated by Mario Coelho
Grammy’s Treasure Hunt: Sarah’s Secret by Joan Marie Voeltz
Holly and the Magic Bunny by Kateryna Dronova
Mur, the Kitty-Knight by Igor Shnayder, illustrated by Roman Dubina
Nosferabbitu by BigKat Manning
Nugget & Bandit’s First Winter by Rachel Vogel, illustrated by Anthony Richichi
Redhair and Daffodil Friend by Carran Waterfield, illustrated by Fruzsina Czech
The Case of the Stolen Cash by Frank Saraco, illustrated by David Martinez
The Horses of Saddlers Ranch: Cloud (Book One) by Alison Bellringer
The Misadventures of Minnie the Monarch: Journey to the Butterfly Forest by Millicent Sutton, illustrated by Joshua Wichterich
Wynn Parker is an Electrician Today by Jennifer Lynn, illustrated by Katherine Henriott-Jauw
Charity/Making a Difference
1st Place (tie): The 50 Yard Challenge: How a Simple Act Became a Nationwide Movement by Rodney Smith Jr, illustrated by Valeria Kornus
1st Place (tie): Rachel’s Gift by Lisa Jacoby, illustrated by Jasmine Bailey
2nd Place: The Book of Kindness by Egor Klopenko, illustrated by Ksenia Panteleeva
Honorable Mention:
Dinosaurs for Dylan by Tracy Gulovsen, illustrated by Renate Potter
Eyes That See by Shernette Hall, illustrated by Natasha Colter
Garbage Squirrel by Megan Deliberto, illustrated by Tiemoko Sylla
Grandmother Nora’s Quilts by Nancy K. Arnold, illustrated by Ellen L. Berger
I Love You, Grandma Sharon! Brooke and Grandma’s Days with Parkinson’s by George Ackerman and Brooke Ackerman
Let’s Create A Kindness Chain by Ashley Nevison
Making Her Way: Butterfly Princess Book 5 by Alisa Hope Wagner, illustrated by Albert Morales
May I Be on Your Team by Grace A. Wolf, illustrated by Samuel J. Gross
Molly and Potato by Dr. Kelly Curtin and Molly Hallinan, illustrated by Aabshar Khan
My Rainbow Days by Lena Bee, illustrated by Jesse Navarrette
Phoenix & the Farm of Second Chances by Brittany Petish
The Horses of Saddlers Ranch: Cloud (Book One) by Alison Bellringer
The Tail That Told the Truth by Jory Perry
Children’s Nonfiction
1st Place: Somos America/We are America by Raynelda A. Calderon, illustrated by Maria Florencia De Luca
2nd Place: Curious Kids Do Interviews by Victoria Waller Ed.D.
Honorable Mention:
Earth Science: An Introduction to How Our World Works by Megan Helm
Gigi Butterfly by Tiffanie Ronette
Grandpa’s Still Watching by Dan Loftus, illustrated by Nadia Ronquillo
Jack and Lulu Go to the Tree Farm by Julie McGue, illustrated by Mariia Stepanova
Life with Ava and Luna: Big Wins, Little Moments by Chris Sandoval, illustrated by Nadia Ronquillo
My Rainbow Days by Lena Bee, illustrated by Jesse Navarrette
RATS With Backpacks: Dr. Donna Kean and Her Work at APOPO by Jeanmarie Courtney
Reflections of Me: Power Words for a Super You by Natalia Fry
The Secret in Our Genes: Out of Africa and Into the World: Hidden Histories Embedded in Our DNA by Buelo Addaeyah and Afia Henewaa
Collection of Short Stories
1st Place: The Further Adventures of Erig the Earwig by Andy Evans, illustrated by Lucy Fleming
Comic Books
1st Place: Zicky: Wrath of the Rat King by Darin S. Cape
2nd Place: Marco’s World by Ganggang Hu Guidice
Cooking/Food-Related
1st Place: Stellar Recipes by Stella Lesage
Cultural Diversity
1st Place: Where Chocolate Grows: A Sweet Journey of Curiosity and Discovery by Irma Hersel, illustrated by Katrin Xalti
2nd Place: Roots & Rise An Entrepreneur’s Fable by Aarav Singh, illustrated by Mishan Mondal
Honorable Mention:
At the Ragtag Hotel: The Elevator Ride by Freya Novak, illustrated by Anastasiya Halionka
Black Is ... by Mia Morton Hubbard
Cooking Up Culture: Discovering Dal Bati - from Rajasthan, India by Parul Bhandari
In Grenada, What do you see? by Michelle Hood-Julien, illustrated by Valeria Kornus
Kip and the Best Gift by D.A. Jennings, illustrated by Dan Kane
Lily Celebrates Nowruz by Pegah Ghods
Perri’s Pencil Problem by Marleigh Brown, illustrated by Amber Orozco
Queer Latine Heroes: 25 Changemakers from Latin America and the U.S. from History and Today by Sofía Aguilar, illustrated by Valentine De Luna Cortés
Singing Surya Dreams to Dance by Suchi Sairam, illustrated by Vidya Vasudevan
Tomás Goes to Oliver’s House - A Story of Resilience by Xiomara Gallego-Bernard, illustrated by Irina Chasov
Early Readers
1st Place: Salma Speaks Up by Danny Ramadan, illustrated by Anna Bron
2nd Place: Charli’s Turtle Triumph: A Marine Biology Adventure by Vicki Scott Burns, illustrated by Mel Schroeder
Honorable Mention:
A Flower for You by Tasha-Nicole Terani, illustrated by Karine Makartichan
Flo the Quokka by Larry Gilbert, illustrated by Mona Monash
Happystarville: Jackson & Sydney’s Quest for the Sacred Unicorn by Ase Omavuaye Otite, illustrated by German Varona
Holly and the Magic Bunny by Kateryna Dronova
Joyful Noise: The Sound of a Tea Kettle by Kimberly Wilson, illustrated by Deshawn Daugherty
Molly and Potato by Dr. Kelly Curtin and Molly Hallinan, illustrated by Aabshar Khan
On the Way to Grandma’s House by Vontavia J. Heard
Perfect The Way I Am by Michael Belliotti, illustrated by Hafsa Asad
Sly in the City: Philadelphia by Alicia Andaloro
The Misadventures of Minnie the Monarch: Journey to the Butterfly Forest by Millicent Sutton, illustrated by Joshua Wichterich
They Shall Shine by Chris E Steele
Tiny Bird by Sabrina Edralin
Educational/Instructional
1st Place: Vedic Mathematics Reimagined: A student’s perspective textbook by Aariana Gawande
2nd Place: Can a Robin Read? by Sandy Hill, illustrated by Gene Hill
Honorable Mention:
I Have Feelings, Too: Understanding Dog Communication by Anissa Svoboda, illustrated by Aneta Knoppova
Major Miser Adventure by Albert Luo
Roots & Rise An Entrepreneur’s Fable by Aarav Singh, illustrated by Mishan Mondal
Exercise/Fitness
1st Place: Birdie Fitness Fun: A Playful Path to Staying Active by Jessica McAnelly, illustrated by Desin Esa
Family Matters
1st Place (tie): Sometimes It’s Hard by Kayla Paquette
1st Place (tie): A Puppy’s Tale by Grant Merritt, illustrated by Elena Ciolacu
2nd Place: Sleeping Giants by Sarah Doran, illustrated by Angelina Davis
Honorable Mention:
Brunt and Eggbert Happen Upon a Wreck! by Jeff Dorrill, illustrated by Ángeles Peinador
Grandpa’s Still Watching by Dan Loftus, illustrated by Nadia Ronquillo
Jack and Lulu Go to the Tree Farm by Julie McGue, illustrated by Mariia Stepanova
Lexi the Butterfly by Sherri Crandall, illustrated by Beth Snider
Lilac and the Switchback by Cordelia Jensen
Mama I Love You by Mona Liza Santos, illustrated by Anuradha Godagama
Molly and Potato by Dr. Kelly Curtin and Molly Hallinan, illustrated by Aabshar Khan
Mommy, Where’s My Dad? by Jezebel Rivera, illustrated by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff
Still Your Heart Will Grow: Loving and Grieving a Pregnancy Loss by Aleah Toews, illustrated by Grace Keeling
The Adventures of Belle Bear by Kathy Akopov Guillory, illustrated by Nathalie Ortega
The Tail That Told the Truth by Jory Perry
Welcome Baby Wigglet! by A.M. Berkowitz
General
1st Place: Olivia the Brave: A Children’s Book on Anxiety & Worry by Lindsey Young
2nd Place: Tiny Pieces by Kelly Artieri
Honorable Mention:
A is for Agates - A Lake Superior Alphabet Book by Patti Baraks, illustrated by Lisa Perrin-Kosmo
Pinkie the Pink Elephant by George J. Linsenmeyer III
Roots & Rise An Entrepreneur’s Fable by Aarav Singh, illustrated by Mishan Mondal
Stay Spooky Trick Ghastly by Trick Ghastly, illustrated by Scary Styles
The Grumpus Among Us by Sharon Miller, illustrated by Ashleigh Heyns
Global & Social Issues
1st Place: RATS With Backpacks: Dr. Donna Kean and Her Work at APOPO by Jeanmarie Courtney
2nd Place: Roots & Rise An Entrepreneur’s Fable by Aarav Singh, illustrated by Mishan Mondal
Graphic Novel
1st Place: Miro Chronicles: The Graphic Novel — Part One by Emily Arons, illustrated by Isabella Laman
2nd Place: Marco’s World by Ganggang Hu Guidice
Green Books/Environmental
1st Place (tie): A Flower for You by Tasha-Nicole Terani, illustrated by Karine Makartichan
1st Place (tie): So You Want To Be A Marine Biologist by Linda Soules
1st Place (tie): So You Want To Be A Shark Researcher by Linda Soules
2nd Place: Charli’s Turtle Triumph: A Marine Biology Adventure by Vicki Scott Burns, illustrated by Mel Schroeder
Honorable Mention:
A is for Agates - A Lake Superior Alphabet Book by Patti Baraks, illustrated by Lisa Perrin-Kosmo
All That Glitters is Not GOLD by Emily Brubaker
Grandma’s Blue Bucket by Valerie E Fritz, illustrated by Pranisha Shrestha
Hallie the Hero, the White Turtle? by Lorrie P. Grosfield
High-Tail Falls, A Buffalo Wants to be a Smokejumper by Lorrie P. Grosfield
Meteor Matter by Lena Bee, illustrated by Naudia Ronquillo
Putrescence by Natalie Fisher, illustrated by Anastasia Khmelevska
The Last Starfruit Tree by Chirine Alameddine, illustrated by Pavel Arsenyev
Growing Pains
1st Place: The Boy Who Counts His Mistakes by Kim Adams, illustrated by Prasadi Kumararathne
2nd Place: Perfect The Way I Am by Michael Belliotti, illustrated by Hafsa Asad
Honorable Mention:
Aloe Vera’s Special Gift by Jeanette Gil, illustrated by Tania Ortiz
Billy Says Bye-Bye to Breast Milk: A Gentle Weaning Story for Toddlers by Kim Winker
Forgotten Secrets of the Tuscarora Eye: A Hannah Hallie Hawkins History Mystery by D. L. Bush
Grandpa’s Still Watching by Dan Loftus, illustrated by Nadia Ronquillo
Just Be by Josh Shelton, illustrated by Sam Pullenza
Lilac and the Switchback by Cordelia Jensen
Meteor Matter by Lena Bee, illustrated by Naudia Ronquillo
Porn is Not Sex Ed!: A Young Person’s Illustrated Guide to Debunking Sexuality Myths by Jess Melendez, illustrated by Remy Alva
Health
1st Place: Molly and Potato by Dr. Kelly Curtin and Molly Hallinan, illustrated by Aabshar Khan
2nd Place: Germs by Grant Kurzman
Honorable Mention:
HI! I’m Cher. I Go Everywhere!: A Mindfulness Book for Children and Their Grownups by Jane Enright Winn and Karen Rando-Nehmad, illustrated by Monica Joy
HI! I’m Cher. I Go Everywhere!: Hello Spring! by Jane Enright Winn and Karen Rando-Nehmad, illustrated by Monica Joy
Just Be by Josh Shelton, illustrated by Sam Pullenza
Maryland: The Secrets of Staying Healthy by Anna Dubrovna, illustrated by Maria Akatieva
The Tissue Issue: Ariel and the Dirty, Yucky, Icky, Sticky, Stinky Tissue by Jamie Kucia
Vinny Goes to Therapy by Brittany Gianfagna, illustrated by Gaby Martinez Huesca
Historical Fiction
1st Place: Half Spoon of Rice by Icy Smith, illustrated by Sopaul Nhem
2nd Place: The Spirits of ‘76 by T.W. Fitzhugh, illustrated by Aaron Garretson
Honorable Mention:
Rusty the Ringtail by Thomas Lopez, illustrated by Kurniawan Pangestu
History Nonfiction
Honorable Mention: My New Kentucky Home by Ashley Nevison
Holidays
1st Place: Stay Spooky Trick Ghastly by Trick Ghastly, illustrated by Scary Styles
2nd Place: The Christmas Leprechaun by Wizard Penfield, illustrated by Anastasia Dragunova
Honorable Mention:
A Child’s Dream: Santa’s Parking Ticket & an Empty Sled by Anita Yates
Carl the Catfish and the Wisdom of the Santa Hat by Anthony Maranville
Chris Kringle and the Jingle Squad by Sheryl Hilton, illustrated by Nia Quin
Fiddlesticks: A Tale for Christmas Eve by Amanda Jane Lowles, illustrated by Mario Coelho
Happy Birthday to US! by Sherry Ellis, illustrated by Nina Hvozdzeva
Kip and the Best Gift by D.A. Jennings, illustrated by Dan Kane
Nathan Hacks Santa by Elaine Spanner, illustrated by Pia Reyes
Santa’s Christmas Gift by Samantha Geernaert
The Adventures of the Sister Cats: The Chaotic Christmas by Emerson Cochran, illustrated by Cleoward Sy
The Saint Bernards Decorate for Christmas by Elaina Firman
Humor
1st Place: Bernard’s Big Leap by Teko Bernard, illustrated by Josh Shipley
2nd Place: The Mountain of Dempsey Molehill by Julie Barichello
Honorable Mention:
Meteor Matter by Lena Bee, illustrated by Naudia Ronquillo
Mia’s Big Store Adventure by Erika Hajdu, illustrated by Karina Nechval
My Purple Haired Nan and Her Big Adventures: The Flippity Flip-Flops by Stewart Currie
Nathan Hacks Santa by Elaine Spanner, illustrated by Pia Reyes
What Will I Be Today? by Carly Major, illustrated by Olena Kyrychenko
Letters, Journals
Honorable Mention: Journal with Tia: Explore Feelings, Imagination, and Adventure by Rashmi Chaudhary
LGBT
1st Place: Jacob’s Transition Goals: An inspiring story about trans inclusion and trans kids in sports by Arthur Webber, illustrated by Ang Hui Qing
2nd Place: Love Looks Like Lola: A Story Introducing Kids to Ace and Aro Identities and Celebrating Love in Many Forms by Cody Daigle-Orians, illustrated by Siân Coules-Milne
Honorable Mention:
Pronouns & Party Crowns by Jho Lynn, illustrated by Frannie Buenaventura
Middle Grade Fiction
1st Place (tie):Forgotten Secrets of the Tuscarora Eye: A Hannah Hallie Hawkins History Mystery by D. L. Bush
1st Place (tie): Liv Forever: Never Say Zombie by Diana Davis, illustrated by Lauren Burke
1st Place (tie): Lilac and the Switchback by Cordelia Jensen
1st Place (tie): Best Friends (Book One of The Orion Sessions) by Cheryl DaVeiga, illustrated by Tamara Campeau
2nd Place (tie): Muppit Boy and the Allergies of Evil by Michael J. Bowler
2nd Place (tie): Trapped by Bella Olson
2nd Place (tie): The Porch Light Girls: Two Girls, Two Journeys, One Light That Never Goes Out by Diane Green
Honorable Mention:
Bernard’s Big Leap by Teko Bernard, illustrated by Josh Shipley
Christine and the Magic Charts by Alex Kolokolov
Fiddlesticks: A Tale for Christmas Eve by Amanda Jane Lowles, illustrated by Mario Coelho
Grammy’s Treasure Hunt: Sarah’s Secret by Joan Marie Voeltz
Miro Chronicles by Emily Arons
Mur, the Kitty-Knight by Igor Shnayder, illustrated by Roman Dubina
Obesseus Lord Of The Buffet by D.T. Tucker
Quest for the Four Beads: Wolf Hunt by Megan Johnson
Secrets of the Magic Glass by Cassie Sano
The Big Switch: Varney and Cedric by Lynn Slaughter
The Girl Without an Imagination by Jeff Orlowski
The Heart of Light by Alfonso Ojeda, illustrated by Darci C
The Horses of Saddlers Ranch: Cloud (Book One) by Alison Bellringer
The Jellybean Detective Club by Ian Slatter
The Mountain of Dempsey Molehill by Julie Barichello
Wynn Parker is an Electrician Today by Jennifer Lynn, illustrated by Katherine Henriott-Jauw
Mystery
1st Place: The Magical Farm Mysteries: Bubble Gum Rocks by A.M. Berkowitz
2nd Place: The Monster Bones of St. Frederick Island by Linda Maria Frank and JoAnn Vergona Krapp, illustrated by Marianne Savage
New Author: Fiction
1st Place (tie): Cecilia Took a Book to Bed by Megan Myers, illustrated by Joe Sarver
1st Place (tie): A Puppy’s Tale by Grant Merritt, illustrated by Elena Ciolacu
1st Place (tie): Molly and Potato by Dr. Kelly Curtin and Molly Hallinan, illustrated by Aabshar Khan
1st Place (tie): Sunny and the Round Things by Jennia D’Lima, illustrated by Maxine Fourie
2nd Place (tie): The Voice in the Heart by VictoriaLyn J., illustrated by Whimsy Studios
2nd Place (tie): Where’s Winnie? by Beth Nicole Hynes, illustrated by Polya Bulba
Honorable Mention:
Alli the Alligator by Cindy Miller, illustrated by Joan Coleman
At the Ragtag Hotel: The Elevator Ride by Freya Novak, illustrated by Anastasiya Halionka
Belefante by Hannah Klink
Chris Kringle and the Jingle Squad by Sheryl Hilton, illustrated by Nia Quin
Cody’s Whisper by Malia Grace, illustrated by Lauren Reeves
Fetti and the forest by Jess N
Flo the Quokka by Larry Gilbert, illustrated by Mona Monash
Fun Day with Misa / Un Dia Divertido con Misa by Mireya Saldúa, illustrated by Cleofe Pacaña
Grandma’s Blue Bucket by Valerie E Fritz, illustrated by Pranisha Shrestha
Hop’s Tales: The Kind Bunny by Evelina Ruimy, illustrated by Siski Kalla
I Always Knew We Were Meant For You by Michelle Gillitzer
Joyful Noise: The Sound of a Tea Kettle by Kimberly Wilson, illustrated by Deshawn Daugherty
Just Keep Going by Bianca Beasley, illustrated by Rania Tulba
Katie and Her Butterfly Voice by Hana Carpenter
Meowtastical A New World by Kenzie Roach
Mia’s Big Store Adventure by Erika Hajdu, illustrated by Karina Nechval
Mommy Goes to the Hospital by Natalie Burns, illustrated by Maru Vargas
One Day with Dinosaurs by Leslie Calimeri
Pablo by Mar Andersons, illustrated by Irvin Walkes
Putrescence by Natalie Fisher, illustrated by Anastasia Khmelevska
Qiu Qiu’s Toy Mountain by Lili Roarke
Quest for the Four Beads: Wolf Hunt by Megan Johnson
Room With A Boo by Rissa Miller, illustrated by Josh Johnson
Rusty the Ringtail by Thomas Lopez, illustrated by Kurniawan Pangestu
Sachiko Goes Racing by Nadine Sachiko Hsu, illustrated by Brittney Consuerga
Shadow of Light: Kenji and the Sword of Gathering Clouds by G. D. Wilson, illustrated by Anne Karklins
Sly in the City: Philadelphia by Alicia Andaloro
Stay Spooky Trick Ghastly by Trick Ghastly, illustrated by Scary Styles
The Adventures of Belle Bear by Kathy Akopov Guillory, illustrated by Nathalie Ortega
The Home Run by Rebecca Craft
The Moose Smooch by Stacy Taylor, illustrated by Bego Corbalan
The Tissue Issue: Ariel and the Dirty, Yucky, Icky, Sticky, Stinky Tissue by Jamie Kucia
Timmy the Taxi by Kimberly Brown
Tiny Bird by Sabrina Edralin
What Am I Feeling? by Evgeniya Zy
New Author: Nonfiction
1st Place: Vedic Mathematics Reimagined: A student’s perspective textbook by Aariana Gawande
2nd Place: How Perry Sees It by Darian R. Arndt
Honorable Mention:
Vets Like Us Use Tools by Keira Savin, illustrated by P.M. Powered
Outdoor Recreation
1st Place: Grandma’s Blue Bucket by Valerie E Fritz, illustrated by Pranisha Shrestha
2nd Place: Tall as the Sun by Stephanie Henson, illustrated by Yasmin Akhtar
Honorable Mention:
Amelia’s Loose Part Art: A Night at the Campsite by Angela Odusanya
Rusty the Ringtail by Thomas Lopez, illustrated by Kurniawan Pangestu
Picture Books 5 & Younger
1st Place (tie): Bookley the Book-Loving Ghost by Lindsay Gizicki, illustrated by Eleonora Petrova
1st Place (tie): All Through the Crown by Rachel Glowacki
1st Place (tie): Cecilia Took a Book to Bed by Megan Myers, illustrated by Joe Sarver
1st Place (tie): dog + girl by Maria Murillo, illustrated by Juli Litkei
1st Place (tie): The Light of the Winter Solstice by Florian Eizaguirre
2nd Place (tie): Humphrey the Hopeful Helper by Marcie Davis, illustrated by Ros Webb
2nd Place (tie): Mouse and Bee by Gail Aherne, illustrated by Lisa Blakeborough
2nd Place (tie): My Little Home in a Tree by Kristina Schoettle, illustrated by Ally Toye
2nd Place (tie): Why? by Elena Kayne, illustrated by Tetiana Matiikiv
Honorable Mention:
A Book of Baby Birds by I.S. Thomas, illustrated by Sarah-Leigh Wills
A Flower for You by Tasha-Nicole Terani, illustrated by Karine Makartichan
A Puppy’s Tale by Grant Merritt, illustrated by Elena Ciolacu
A Strange Sound: A gentle, rhyming picture book about curiosity, kindness, and finding love by Olive Green, illustrated by Dainius Šukys
Aloe Vera’s Special Gift by Jeanette Gil, illustrated by Tania Ortiz
An Unexpected Adventure by Simone Majetich, illustrated by Francis Eusebio
Andy the Admiral and the USS Shipshape by Mark Fava, illustrated by Angus Prajogo
Belefante by Hannah Klink
Benji and Briana Become Booger Doctors by Cindy Lee Neighbors, illustrated by Tim Crecelius
Bobby Bunny’s Special Surprise Day 2nd Edition: Mommy Opens A World Full of Surprises by Carol Mueller
Can I Have a Biscuit, Please? by Elody Ord
Celeste Is A Star by C Park, illustrated by Shandy Ahmed
Charlotte A Yellowstone Wolf Pup by Celia Straus, illustrated by Maria Hahne
Country Club Coyote by Shannon McFarlin, illustrated by Stacey Reine Eddy
Cuna en la Naturaleza by Linda Wilson
Floo Flocky Doo to the Rescue by David Gillespie
Fun Day with Misa / Un Dia Divertido con Misa by Mireya Saldúa, illustrated by Cleofe Pacaña
Gato Feo by Jime Wimmer
Germs by Grant Kurzman
Gert the SEE Turtle In Emotions at the Ocean by Maxine Poston
Grandma’s Blue Bucket by Valerie E Fritz, illustrated by Pranisha Shrestha
Grandpa’s Still Watching by Dan Loftus, illustrated by Nadia Ronquillo
GV Bug Loves to Walk by Janani Raveendran, illustrated by Sara Kuba
HI! I’m Cher. I Go Everywhere!: A Mindfulness Book for Children and Their Grownups by Jane Enright Winn and Karen Rando-Nehmad, illustrated by Monica Joy
HI! I’m Cher. I Go Everywhere!: Hello Spring! by Jane Enright Winn and Karen Rando-Nehmad, illustrated by Monica Joy
I Always Knew We Were Meant For You by Michelle Gillitzer
Into the Blue: A Counting Adventure by Amy Kapoor, illustrated by Jennifer Ard
Jack’s Train Day: An Australian Railway Adventure by Sarah Tinney, illustrated by Ricky Audi
Kiera and Lamby: New York City by Nicole OConnor, illustrated by Anika Tasnim
Leafy Sea Dragon I Spy ABCs by Eileen Piecczonka, illustrated by Rita Goldner
Logan and the Disappearing Document by Christine Ricci-McNamee, illustrated by Anthony Richichi
Mama I Love You by Mona Liza Santos, illustrated by Anuradha Godagama
Meant to BEE (Brave, Educated, Empowered) by Lisa Lawson
Mia’s Big Store Adventure by Erika Hajdu, illustrated by Karina Nechval
My Purple Haired Nan and Her Big Adventures: The Flippity Flip-Flops by Stewart Currie
My Rainbow Days by Lena Bee, illustrated by Jesse Navarrette
Nursery Rhyme Rescue by Dawn-Renee Young, illustrated by Nab Shaw
Olli’s Cave of Treasures by Linda Murphy, illustrated by Kacey Barton
Omar and the SuperTails: The First Day of School by Nicky Girl, illustrated by D G
Oops! Wrong Job, Monster! by K.S. Holloway, illustrated by Kimberly Todd
Owl Be Seeing You (a Grumpy the Iguana and Green Parrot Adventure) by Susan Marie Chapman, illustrated by Natalia Loseva
Pauly & Fluff’s Day at the Beach by Sara Madden, illustrated by Hayley Helsten
Pogan Pigglio and The Magic Garden by Debra Patrick, illustrated by Cheryl Elmo
Problems with Pooski by Sharon O’Flaherty, illustrated by Gennel Marie Sollano
Putrescence by Natalie Fisher, illustrated by Anastasia Khmelevska
Ready, Steady… by Becky Edwards
Shmoopie: A Whole Hug Planet by Sharon Y. Edlin
Sit in my Puddle by Erin Legault, illustrated by Kim Soderberg
Snow on the Mountains by Rebekah Eyre, illustrated by Bethany Bartholomew
Stop Snoring, Dad! by Jackie Myers, illustrated by Jack Foster
Sunny and the Round Things by Jennia D’Lima, illustrated by Maxine Fourie
The Adventures of Spuddy & Biscotti: Big Farm Adventure! by Linda Collins, illustrated by Maruf Hasan
The Best Bunny: Adventures of Lil Shen and Her Inspirational Sidekick Bunny Best by Shenandoah Chefalo, illustrated by Alena Tkach
The Jealous Little Munchkin by Ali DeMoro, illustrated by Vikkireds
The Lonely Spaceship’s Big Journey by Jaiyen L. Bhandari
The Moose Smooch by Stacy Taylor, illustrated by Bego Corbalan
The Naughty Naughty Chair by Jenny Crossley
The Power of Encouragement Turning “I Can’t” into “I Can” by Ruth Maille, illustrated by Pardeep Mehre
The Strange, Scary Bird - Who Wasn’t Scary After All by Julie Sormark
The Tail That Told the Truth by Jory Perry
The Tissue Issue: Ariel and the Dirty, Yucky, Icky, Sticky, Stinky Tissue by Jamie Kucia
The Voice in the Heart by VictoriaLyn J., illustrated by Whimsy Studios
Tia: The Cat with Curly Whiskers by Jenny Crossley
Upstream by Al Atkinson, illustrated by Dave O’Connell
What Am I Feeling? by Evgeniya Zy
Where Beau the Beach Bunny Burrows by Lolisa Marie Monroe, illustrated by Draw and Care Ukraine
Where’s Winnie? by Beth Nicole Hynes, illustrated by Polya Bulba
Whiskers and Wishes: The Adventures of Sven and Oley by Mary Nielsen, illustrated by Cassidy Kendrick
Yoey Does it Her Way (A Girl With Disabilities Who Loves to Play, Learn and Shine) by Mary Nielsen, illustrated by Eminence System
Zackie Zebra: The Zebra That Lost His Stripes by Koen Alexander, illustrated by Valentina Davila
Picture Books 6 & Older
1st Place (tie): Bentley Finds a Hippopotomonsterous by Miki Taylor, illustrated by Eunhye Shin
1st Place (tie): Brunt and Eggbert Happen Upon a Wreck! by Jeff Dorrill, illustrated by Ángeles Peinador
1st Place (tie): A Puppy’s Tale by Grant Merritt, illustrated by Elena Ciolacu
1st Place (tie): Cody’s Whisper by Malia Grace, illustrated by Lauren Reeves
1st Place (tie): Grumpy Gnome by Peter Wiholm, illustrated by Alejandro Segura Barón
1st Place (tie): Queen Bea by Scott Evan Davis, illustrated by Tadgh Bentley
1st Place (tie): Rachel’s Gift by Lisa Jacoby, illustrated by Jasmine Bailey
2nd Place (tie): Farmer Hudson by Andrea Wood, illustrated by Laura Lander
2nd Place (tie): Kip and the Best Gift by D.A. Jennings, illustrated by Dan Kane
2nd Place (tie): Rosie’s First Recital by Michele Cronin, illustrated by Colleen Sgroi
Honorable Mention:
A Wrong Turn in Space: The Boy and his Parrot Return by Catherine Corcoran, illustrated by Natalie Lundeen
All that Glitters is Not GOLD by Emily Brubaker
Amazing Me! by Tanerra Willis, illustrated by Travis Thompson
An Unexpected Adventure by Simone Majetich, illustrated by Francis Eusebio
At the Ragtag Hotel: The Elevator Ride by Freya Novak, illustrated by Anastasiya Halionka
Cone and Skate by Amy Nicolai, illustrated by Christina Michalos
Curly Cat the Acrobat by Jennifer Somervell, illustrated by Zerika van Jaarsveld
Dirt Dog Invites Prissy Poodle to the Prom by Lisa Pritchard, illustrated by Lissette Blanco
Earworm by Adriana Bravo, illustrated by María Tutí
EscapePeas by J.L. McCreedy
Fetti and the Forest by Jess N
Flo the Quokka by Larry Gilbert, illustrated by Mona Monash
Frangipan by Fairey Newbern
Fun Day with Misa / Un Dia Divertido con Misa by Mireya Saldúa, illustrated by Cleofe Pacaña
Germs by Grant Kurzman
Grandma’s Blue Bucket by Valerie E Fritz, illustrated by Pranisha Shrestha
Grandpa’s Still Watching by Dan Loftus, illustrated by Nadia Ronquillo
Handygirl Nola Fixes Dad by Silvija Sesto, illustrated by Mila Loncar
Happystarville: Jackson & Sydney’s Quest for the Sacred Unicorn by Ase Omavuaye Otite, illustrated by German Varona
Harvey Longbody: The Disappearing Friends by Gary Hughey Jr
HI! I’m Cher. I Go Everywhere!: A Mindfulness Book for Children and Their Grownups by Jane Enright Winn and Karen Rando-Nehmad, illustrated by Monica Joy
HI! I’m Cher. I Go Everywhere!: Hello Spring! by Jane Enright Winn and Karen Rando-Nehmad, illustrated by Monica Joy
How Stella Blue Finds Her Furever Home by Sandra Bolan, illustrated by Morgan Ball
I Always Knew We Were Meant For You by Michelle Gillitzer
I Bet I Can Make You Yawn by Alison Frenz, illustrated by Audrey Kennedy
Jack and the Zonkalins by Jenny Crossley
Jade the Judge: Who Works With You by Shequitta Kelly-Joubert, illustrated by Pratip Bhattacharjee
Just Be Josh Shelton by Sam Pullenza
Just Keep Going by Bianca Beasley, illustrated by Rania Tulba
Life with Ava and Luna: Big Wins, Little Moments by Chris Sandoval, illustrated by Nadia Ronquillo
Lily’s Mysterious Odyssey by Anne Lacourrege, illustrated by Joshua Wichterich
Logan and the Disappearing Document by Christine Ricci-McNamee, illustrated by Anthony Richichi
Magnolia and the Gang Save the Day by George J Linsenmeyer III, illustrated by Artsoluki NA
Marilu Goes to Work by Sonia Strockyj, illustrated by Folks Nfable
Meant to BEE (Brave, Educated, Empowered) by Lisa Lawson
Mia’s Big Store Adventure by Erika Hajdu, illustrated by Karina Nechval
My Grandma Lives in Florida by Jeanne Rogers and Katharine Rogers
Nathan Hacks Santa by Elaine Spanner, illustrated by Pia Reyes
Olli’s Cave of Treasures by Linda Murphy, illustrated by Kacey Barton
Pablo by Mar Andersons, illustrated by Irvin Walkes
Pauly & Fluff’s Day at the Beach by Sara Madden, illustrated by Hayley Helsten
Perfect The Way I Am by Michael Belliotti, illustrated by Hafsa Asad
Pockets by Janet Anderson
Problems with Pooski by Sharon O’Flaherty, illustrated by Gennel Marie Sollano
Qiu Qiu’s Toy Mountain by Lili Roarke
Riley’s Perfect Hat by Gail Schlenger
Ringo the Ginkgo by Arshak Martirosyan
Room With A Boo by Rissa Miller, illustrated by Josh Johnson
Rusty the Ringtail by Thomas Lopez, illustrated by Kurniawan Pangestu
Sachiko Loses Her Sparkle by Nadine Sachiko Hsu, illustrated by Brittney Consuerga
Save Me a Seat by Lisa Corduan, illustrated by Tabitha Gail Simmons
Smokey’s Day at the Beach by D. L. Mensch
Stay Spooky Trick Ghastly by Trick Ghastly, illustrated by Scary Styles
The Adventures of Belle Bear by Kathy Akopov Guillory, illustrated by Nathalie Ortega
The Amazing Journey of Reyna the Rufous Hummingbird by Pamela Cannalte, illustrated by Steven Beutler
The Best Bunny: Adventures of Lil Shen and Her Inspirational Sidekick Bunny Best by Shenandoah Chefalo, illustrated by Alena Tkach
The Bird Who Was Afraid to Fly by Harker Jones, illustrated by Sara Angus
The Clever Bunny (Who Wasn’t - Yet!) by Evi Marami, illustrated by Marilina Skarpeta
The FingerNail Moon by Darrell Spencer and Greg McKenzie, illustrated by Sarah Gledhill
The Heart of a Leader by Josh McConkey, illustrated by Joe Yakovetic
The Holy Lizard by David Lane, illustrated by Caleb McBee
The Light of the Winter Solstice by Florian Eizaguirre
The Lonely Rainbow by Donna Chisum, illustrated by Madeleine Marie
The Out-of-this-World Pet by Adam Kargman, illustrated by Tristan Tair
The Power of Encouragement Turning “I Can’t” into “I Can” by Ruth Maille, illustrated by Pardeep Mehre
Today is a New Day by Justine Ramdas, illustrated by Stella Maris
Together We Are a Pizza Pie! by Anastasia Paradzhanova, illustrated by Carla Buratti
Tomás Goes to Oliver’s House - A Story of Resilience by Xiomara Gallego-Bernard, illustrated by Irina Chasov
Tooth Fairy Confidential: Investigations of JoJo P. by Johanna Patrick, illustrated by Funda May
Where Beau the Beach Bunny Burrows by Lolisa Marie Monroe, illustrated by Draw and Care Ukraine
Where’s Winnie? by Beth Nicole Hynes, illustrated by Polya Bulba
Wishes & Whinnies: Tyler’s Dream by Mary Aggas, illustrated by Nadezhda
Poetry
1st Place: Moonbeams and Rhyme Dreams by Derek Allen
2nd Place: The Wisdom I Can’t Teach by Paul Coyne
Honorable Mention:
A Flower for You by Tasha-Nicole Terani, illustrated by Karine Makartichan
A is for Agates - A Lake Superior Alphabet Book by Patti Baraks, illustrated by Lisa Perrin-Kosmo
Just Be by Josh Shelton, illustrated by Sam Pullenza
Lilac and the Switchback by Cordelia Jensen
Mama I Love You by Mona Liza Santos, illustrated by Anuradha Godagama
Mommy Goes to the Hospital by Natalie Burns, illustrated by Maru Vargas
The Birdmad Girl: An Epic Poem for Children by Daniel Klawitter, illustrated by Robyn Calzada
School Issues
1st Place (tie): Dinosaurs for Dylan by Tracy Gulovsen, illustrated by Renate Potter
1st Place (tie): Perri’s Pencil Problem by Marleigh Brown, illustrated by Amber Orozco
2nd Place (tie): The Heart of a Leader by Josh McConkey, illustrated by Joe Yakovetic
2nd Place (tie): The Power of Encouragement Turning “I Can’t” into “I Can” by Ruth Maille, illustrated by Pardeep Mehre
2nd Place (tie): Lilac and the Switchback by Cordelia Jensen
Honorable Mention:
Brave Little Otter and Rainbow Tree by Shirley Ong, illustrated by Ming Lai
Calvin’s Crazy Boots by Kim Pfeiffer
Can I Have a Biscuit, Please? by Elody Ord
Garbage Squirrel by Megan Deliberto, illustrated by Tiemoko Sylla
Life with Ava and Luna: Big Wins, Little Moments by Chris Sandoval, illustrated by Nadia Ronquillo
Meteor Matter by Lena Bee, illustrated by Naudia Ronquillo
Omar and the SuperTails: The First Day of School by Nicky Girl, illustrated by D G
Singing Surya Dreams to Dance by Suchi Sairam, illustrated by Vidya Vasudevan
Sit in My Puddle by Erin Legault, illustrated by Kim Soderberg
Sofie Finds a Best Friend by Carrie Webber, illustrated by Jeremy Vickneswaran
The Adventures of Belle Bear by Kathy Akopov Guillory, illustrated by Nathalie Ortega
Science Fiction/Fantasy
1st Place (tie): Vork Chronicles: Welcome to Superhero School by Gracie Dix
1st Place (tie): The Girl Without an Imagination by Jeff Orlowski
2nd Place: Secrets of the Magic Glass by Cassie Sano
Honorable Mention:
Blair & The Forgotten Flames: A Lubadoos Adventure by Valerie Silveira, illustrated by Clara Barbeito
Happystarville: Jackson & Sydney’s Quest for the Sacred Unicorn by Ase Omavuaye Otite, illustrated by German Varona
Legend of Now by Eileen Merwin Ressler, illustrated by J. Carter Merwin
Miro Chronicles by Emily Arons
Special Needs/Disability Awareness
1st Place (tie): Chloe and the Bossy Cloud: A Children’s Book About OCD by Natasha Daniels, illustrated by Anjali Singh
1st Place (tie): Sometimes It’s Hard by Kayla Paquette
2nd Place (tie): Bravery Grows by Dr Melissa Giglio & Daisy Geddes, illustrated by Ira Baykovska
2nd Place (tie): Katie and Her Butterfly Voice by Hana Carpenter
Honorable Mention:
Calvin’s Crazy Boots by Kim Pfeiffer
Dinosaurs for Dylan by Tracy Gulovsen, illustrated by Renate Potter
Dr. Maple’s Clinic for Everyone by Keira Savin, illustrated by P.M. Powered
Helpful Little Hands by Kristin Blakely, illustrated by Julia Galotta
Humphrey the Hopeful Helper by Marcie Davis, illustrated by Ros Webb
McKenna’s Promise by Brittany Petish
Miss Pam’s Here! Olympic Torch Triumph by Dan Freschi, illustrated by Angela Ayala
Olivia the Brave: A Children’s Book on Anxiety & Worry by Lindsey Young
Pixie the Pig Is a Super Unique Beast: A Heartfelt Social-Emotional Learning Book About Autism, Sensory Differences, and Friendship by Beth Davis
Pockets by Janet Anderson
Princessability to Roll Differently by Cecilia Del Toro
Sele Speaks Without Words by Webilor Ediale, illustrated by Jecoe Firmalan
The ‘op’ Hop: VI (Vision Impairment) by Viola Stefano, illustrated by Zaida Stefano
Wishes & Whinnies: Tyler’s Dream by Mary Aggas, illustrated by Nadezhda
Yoey Does it Her Way (A Girl With Disabilities Who Loves to Play, Learn and Shine) by Mary Nielsen, illustrated by Eminence System
Spiritual/Religious
1st Place (tie): Your Greatest Adventure Is Yet To Come by Simone Majetich, illustrated by Jecoe Firmalan
1st Place (tie): Saturdays with Gramps by Marissa Bader
2nd Place (tie): The Happy Little Sunflower: Finding Hope in the Valley by Raeanna Tilly
2nd Place (tie): Grandpa’s Star by Tiarnie J Cook, illustrated by Elina Aristra
Honorable Mention:
I Always Knew We Were Meant For You by Michelle Gillitzer
I See God by Endeah Canty
Intuition Training by Erik Perezbrain
Still Your Heart Will Grow: Loving and Grieving a Pregnancy Loss by Aleah Toews, illustrated by Grace Keeling
The Little Jesus Mission by Bethany Brevard, illustrated by Marcin Piwowarski
The Pony Who Said His Prayers by Carla Trible
They Shall Shine by Chris E Steele
A Faithful Tale by Chris E. Steele
Sports
1st Place: A Man Named Branch: The True Story of Baseball’s Great Experiment by Marjorie Maddox
2nd Place: Saul the Baseball in the Big Game by Kim Leblanc, illustrated by Afton Jane
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math)
1st Place (tie): So You Want To Be A Marine Biologist by Linda Soules
1st Place (tie): So You Want To Be A Robot Builder (Robotics Engineer) by Linda Soules
1st Place (tie): So You Want To Be A Roller Coaster Designer (Theme Park Engineer) by Linda Soules
1st Place (tie): So You Want To Be A Scientist by Linda Soules
1st Place (tie): So You Want To Be A Video Game Designer by Linda Soules
1st Place (tie): So You Want To Be An Astronaut by Linda Soules
2nd Place (tie): Mr. Roundbottom Science Teacher In Amazing 3D! by James H. Esker Jr.
2nd Place (tie): Vedic Mathematics Reimagined: A student’s perspective textbook by Aariana Gawande
Honorable Mention:
Albert Einstein’s Journey Through Relativity: Dr. K’s Portal Through Time by Dr. Katherine E.A. Korkidis, illustrated by Emilie B. Nuñez
Charli’s Turtle Triumph: A Marine Biology Adventure by Vicki Scott Burns, illustrated by Mel Schroeder
Earth Science: An Introduction to How Our World Works by Megan Helm
Marco’s World by Ganggang Hu Guidice
Meteor Matter by Lena Bee, illustrated by Naudia Ronquillo
My Rainbow Days by Lena Bee, illustrated by Jesse Navarrette
There are Ladybugs in My Room by Vontavia J. Heard
Website
1st Place: Cody’s Whisper by Malia Grace, illustrated by Lauren Reeves
2nd Place: Roots & Rise An Entrepreneur’s Fable by Aarav Singh, illustrated by Mishan Mondal
Honorable Mention:
Fun Day with Misa / Un Dia Divertido con Misa by Mireya Saldúa, illustrated by Cleofe Pacaña
Young Adult Fiction
1st Place: Titus and the Christian Coin: An Adventure of Faith and Freedom by Dennis Conrad
2nd Place: Sitnalta by Alisse Lee Goldenberg
Honorable Mention:
Shadow of Light: Kenji and the Sword of Gathering Clouds by G. D. Wilson, illustrated by Anne Karklins
The Horses of Saddlers Ranch: Cloud (Book One) by Alison Bellringer
The Whispers of Destiny: Guided by the Spirit Within by Shani Night
Youth Author Fiction
1st Place:Molly and Potato by Dr. Kelly Curtin and Molly Hallinan, illustrated by Aabshar Khan
2nd Place: Perri’s Pencil Problem by Marleigh Brown, illustrated by Amber Orozco
Honorable Mention:
A Rainbow Story That Is A Mystery by Tenny Kim
All that Glitters is Not GOLD by Emily Brubaker
Earth Science: An Introduction to How Our World Works by Megan Helm
Major Miser Adventure by Albert Luo
Meowtastical A New World by Kenzie Roach
Roots & Rise An Entrepreneur’s Fable by Aarav Singh, illustrated by Mishan Mondal
Youth Author Nonfiction
1st Place:Goombay Beats on Grove Streets by Saahas Gorla
2nd Place: My New Kentucky Home by Ashley Nevison