2024 Winners
PRINTED BOOKS
Grand Prize Winner
The Trouble with Children
(According to Dog)
by Katie Weaver, illustrated by Caner Soylu
$100 Drawing Winner
Running for Shelter: A True Story by Suzette Sheft
Activity Books
1st Place (tie): My Hopi Skopi Book of Times Tables by Sipiwe Sikwila, illustrated by Andrea du Plessis
1st Place (tie): Bentley's Fantabulous Idea: Coloring Storybook by Miki Taylor, illustrated by Eunhye Shin
2nd Place: Shoe Print Art Step Into Drawing Second Edition by Karen S. Robbins, illustrated by Sally Marts
Honorable Mention:
Glitter the Unicorn Loves to Color at the Beach by Callie Chapman, illustrated by Bronwyne Chapman
The Fake Dictionary by Clare-Rose Trevelyn
The Magic Word Coloring Book by Sherrill Cannon
Animals/Pets
1st Place: The Trouble with Children (According to Dog) by Katie Weaver, illustrated by Caner Soylu
2nd Place: Thankful FUR You by Hillary Harper, illustrated by Felipe Calv
Honorable Mention:
Roscoe the Bossy Rooster by Becky Thomas
Please Don’t Tell My Human by Erica Clymer, illustrated by Erica Clymer
Tato The Unwanted by Amy Kelnberger
Grayface & Wigglebutt by Donna Chisum
The Gallagher Farm by Sara Gallagher-Beck
A Firefly Named Felix by Deanna Hart
Abella and the Almost Racehorse by Zane Carson Carruth
African Animal Alphabet (with fun facts) by Sipiwe Sikwila, illustrated by Nicci Joao
Can We Get a Rhinoceros? by Christian Kueng, illustrated by Nana Melkadze
Curious Chris: Why No Flamingos by Cindy B. Witty
Kids and Doggies Buddy Up for Reading Fun by Marsha Horshok
Puffin Lullaby by Ruth Amanda
Rudy A Big Horse With A Big Heart by Diane Jones, illustrated by Karen Busch Holman
The Bouncing Ant by Sally Sunflower, illustrated by Stephen Stone
The Story of Romeo by Joel Bennett, illustrated by Lue Isaac
We’ll Never Have a Chicken by Stephanie Cope, illustrated by Kim Overton
Zorro the Boston Terrier: Shipped to Argentina by Paola Kay
Bruno’s Best Birthday by Megan Deliberto, illustrated by Tiemoko Sylia
Dog at the Tinsel Tree: Susie’s Story by Denise Lee Branco
Paulie the Piping Plover’s Merry Misfits: A Martha’s Vineyard Tale by Christy Burbidge, illustrated by Mary Jo Helchowski
Sally Mitts Finds a Home by Shain Stodt
The Puppy Fairy by Douglas Lee Jr., illustrated by Marianne Savage
Rosencrantz Laundry Basket by Sarah Kott-Tannenbaum, illustrated by Ann Fu
Webster the Beagle and his Adventures at the River by Frank Payne
Cat Care Heroes by Julie Hundman, illustrated by Elizabeth Wright
Good Boy, Eddie by Rennie Dyball
Greeny by Nielle Marques
The Four Curious Bears by Kelly Rosa, illustrated by Martina Terzi
The Amazing Adventures of Mr. Mac by Vickilynn O’ Donnell, illustrated by Jenna Jordan
Zippy Travels to Northeast by Katie McManus
Choo! Choo! Choo! The Train at the Zoo by Kathleen Welton, illustrated by Tamara Joubert
Ms. Alberta: Feline Barn Manager by Diana Tuorto, illustrated by Ava Bucci
Pepperoni Cookies: Fearful Fergus Learns To Try by Sarah Chaires, illustrated by Elizabeth Tortora
Meet Thimblebee by Bonnie Galindo
NuhQuim, The Little Red Puppy by Jacqueline Paul
The Tales of Toby and Milo by Nicole Marshall, illustrated by Sekar Azahra
The Big Red Bird Feeder by Priya Ramesh
Mouse The Pretty Bird by Andrea Thorfinson
Austin by Letitia Burton, illustrated by Catilin O’Dwyer
Lost and Found with the Unlikely Three by Linda Budge
Welcome To Our Farm by Beverly King
Guapo’s Great Rescue: Clay Finds a Forever Home by Janet Zappala, illustrated by Lara Calleja
The Adventures of the Daredevil Grasshopper: The Spider & the Snake by Kevin Holcomb, illustrated by Olga Titova
A Purpose for Patches by Gail Oxford, illustrated by Melissa Fox
Fish Bowl by Andy Gutman
Puppies Don’t Eat Pancakes by David Springstroh
The Little Red Puppy with a Big Idea by Linda Belkin
Let’s Go Tilly! Let’s Go Molly! by Barbara Targonski
A Unique Tongue by Sarah Shehata, illustrated by Rana Alaasar
Arts/Music
1st Place: Tap and Rap, Move and Groove by Connie Dow, illustrated by Debbie Palen
2nd Place: The Big Day at Miss Tilly’s Ballet by Callie Lawler, illustrated by Agnes Ernoult
Honorable Mention:
Johannes Brahms by Julie Sormark, illustrated by Timothy Stiles
Franz Peter Schubert by Julie Sormark, illustrated by Timothy Stiles
Leaping Lumberjacks by Sarah MacElroy, illustrated by TerieBeth Dillard
Coloring the Rainbow: A Story About the Power of Connection by Catherine Rose, illustrated by Jeffrey Dale
Audiobook
1st Place: Maestro Orpheus and The World Clock by Robert Pennee and Joanne Grodzinski
2nd Place: The Inspiring World of Ella Rose La Fleur by Lori Schneider, illustrated by Owen Moloney
Honorable Mention:
Radish and Stubs by Elizabeth Spry
Did You Know? Facts by Norah by Norah Desy
Moojag and the Auticode Secret by N.E. McMorran
Rolo the Pet Earthling by Hans Ness, narrated by Charlie McGuire
Best Cover Design
1st Place (tie): Berkley the Dog in a Noseful of Trouble by David Hillman
1st Place (tie): Bentley’s Fantabulous Idea: Special Edition by Miki Taylor, illustrated by Eunhye Shin
2nd Place: Journey to the Name Maker by Maxine Johone-Smith
Honorable Mention:
Bentley’s Purpose by Sandra Harry, illustrated by Nikki Boetger
Miso and Kili’s Flying Adventures: New Island Friends by J.M. Chrismer, illustrated by Llya Fortuna
Oh, No, Bunny: You’re Still Not Funny! (Happy Tails) by Michele L. Sayre
The Adventures of Joanie and Juliet by Rishawna Gould, illustrated by DG
The Adventures of the Daredevil Grasshopper: The Kraken by Kevin Holcomb, illustrated by Olga Titova
You Are... Volume Two by Lauren Brownrigg
Bruno’s Best Birthday by Megan Deliberto, illustrated by Tiemoko Sylia
A Garden Tail by Gene Baxley Schwiers, illustrated by Sarah Sneeden
Biscuit and Gravy Learn About Fire Safety by Shaun Tyson
Where Do Babies Come From? by Bev Stone
Coloring the Rainbow: A Story About the Power of Connection by Catherine Rose, illustrated by Jeffrey Dale
Fake Out by Felicia Farber
A Sofia Special by Julie Falatko, illustrated by Vivian Mineker
Dandelion by Don Dixon
Enchanted Valley by Sheila Rowe
My Sunshine Space by Mariellen Rich, illustrated by Emily Dunlap
Cooped Up Cats by Amy Pulliam, illustrated by Vince Ortiz
The Buccaneers of St. Frederick Island by Linda Maria Frank, illustrated by Marianne Savage
The Rabbit Princess: The Spirit Sword by R. Chen, illustrated by Ed Chen
A Purpose for Patches by Gail Oxford, illustrated by Melissa Fox
Best Illustrations
1st Place (tie): The Acorn & the Oak by Rhonda Accardo, illustrated by Jessica Waterstradt
1st Place (tie): Bentley’s Fantabulous Idea: Special Edition by Miki Taylor, illustrated by Eunhye Shin
2nd Place (tie): Can You Imagine What Would Happen If... by Pamela Cannalte, illustrated by Steven Beutler
2nd Place (tie): The Day I Had a Dinosaur by Ashley Wall, illustrated by Vaughn Duck
Honorable Mention:
Bella’s Trip to Paris by Kristina Lucia Pezza
Bentley’s Purpose by Sandra Harry, illustrated by Nikki Boetger
CJ Silvers: Single Chapter Stories by William Gray, illustrated by Rebecca Gray
Lion’s Water by Shelia Hackbarth, illustrated by Angela Rue Majken Bullard
Miso and Kili’s Flying Adventures: New Island Friends by J.M. Chrismer, illustrated by Llya Fortuna
The Adventures of Joanie and Juliet by Rishawna Gould, illustrated by DG
Puppy Dreams by Don Dixon, illustrated by Don Dixon
Stardust: A Journey to Remember by Garrett Brill, illustrated by Daniel Fleck
The GIFTS Friends Give Us by Deborah Burke Henderson, illustrated by Anna Famulska
The Sad Princess: The search for a a happily-ever-after smile by Dannielle Levy, illustrated by Rebecca Lisotta
We’ll Never Have a Chicken by Stephanie Cope, illustrated by Kim Overton
Where My Imaginations Come To Life by Younwoo Cho
El ave rara by Elena Busse
ChokaWaka and The Moon Tales by Lynn Hall
Gona’s Halloween Hunt by Carla Crane Osborne, illustrated by Michael Crane
PISA Loves Bella: A Towering Tale of Kindness by Kimberley Lovato, illustrated by Barbara Bongini
Sword Heiress: Violet Moon Series Book 3 by Alissa Hope Wagner
The Adventures of Birpus & Bulbus: The Sour Milk Dragon by Wynn Everett-Albanese and Michael Albanese, illustrated by Indre Ta
The Gallagher Farm by Sara Gallagher-Beck
The Wonderful Tale of Donkey Skin by Fawzia Tung, illustrated by Kadhima Tung
Tex the Explorer and The Jared Box Project by Ellie Smith, illustrated by Eyen Johnson
The Flight of My Life by Jennifer Somervell, illustrated by Margery Fern
A Garden Tail by Gene Baxley Schwiers, illustrated by Sarah Sneeden
Mannon Finds His Feelings by Yolanda Stanton, illustrated by April D’ Angelo
Sparkle Ghetty Becomes a Problem Solver! by Crystel Patterson, illustrated by Briana Young
Where Do Babies Come From? by Bev Stone
Squirrels Bowling on the Roof: A Silly Story that Sounds Sensational by Stephanie Warlick, illustrated by Laurentiu Dumitru
Coloring the Rainbow: A Story About the Power of Connection by Catherine Rose, illustrated by Jeffrey Dale
The Chicken on the Moon by Jana Farris
A Feather for Dill by Shaundra Bartlett Lerman
A Sofia Special by Julie Falatko, illustrated by Vivian Mineker
Choo! Choo! Choo! The Train at the Zoo by Kathleen Welton, illustrated by Tamara Joubert
Ess-Car-Go! by Ruth Amanda
Ms. Alberta: Feline Barn Manager by Diana Tuorto, illustrated by Ava Bucci
Puffel by Sr. Gianna Casino, illustrated by Nadia Izotova
Rolo the Pet Earthling by Hans Ness, illustrated by Sofia Komarenko
Cooped Up Cats by Amy Pulliam, illustrated by Vince Ortiz
Ten Little Turtles by Diane Nolan, illustrated by Jessica Daigle
Fariha’s Energy by Sarah Shehata, illustrated by Aly Elzeiny
The Magic Sea Turtle by Kathleen Welton, illustrated by Chau Pham
Squire With Fire-Yule Be Gone by Joseph Cassis
Gregorina en Chicago by Milagros Wallace, illustrated by Alynor Diaz
A Purpose for Patches by Gail Oxford, illustrated by Melissa Fox
The Buccaneers of St. Frederick Island by Linda Maria Frank, illustrated by Marianne Savage
Best Interior Design
1st Place (tie): Oscar Goes to the Vet by Sam Baker
1st Place (tie): Bentley’s Fantabulous Idea: Special Edition by Miki Taylor, illustrated by Eunhye Shin
2nd Place: A Sofia Special by Julie Falatko, illustrated by Vivian Mineker
Honorable Mention:
The Flight of My Life by Jennifer Somervell, illustrated by Margery Fern
Baby’s Black and White Contrast Book by Tabitha Paige
Glitter the Unicorn Goes to the Movies by Callie Chapman, illustrated by Bronwyne Chapman
Best Photography
1st Place: A Visit Through the Wetlands by Sherry Roberts
2nd Place: Max Mallard Has an Adventure by Doris Dumrauf
Honorable Mention:
Way Up North Where the Kittiwakes Play by Juli-Ann Gasper, illustrated by Josph Gasper
Biography/Memoir
1st Place: An Unlikely Astronaut by Susan Kilrain and Francis French, illustrated by Becky Hardy
Board Books
1st Place: Meet Rosie Fuentes by Evi Triantafyllides, designed by Vasiliki Theocharous
2nd Place: The Four Curious Bears by Kelly Rosa, illustrated by Martina Terzi
Honorable Mention:
Play Outside With Me by Kat Chen
Baby’s Black and White Contrast Book by Tabitha Paige, illustrated by Tabitha Paige
Penelope the Pesky Pelican by Scotty Bolleter, illustrated by Evelina Losich
If Puppies had Pockets by Sarah Kuchma, illustrated by Vania Hardy
My Heart Would Like Some More, Please! by Geshu Sugandh, illustrated by Lovyaa Garg
Book Trailer
1st Place: Bentley’s Fantabulous Idea: Special Edition by Miki Taylor
2nd Place: Fake Out by Felicia Farber
Honorable Mention:
Let’s Go Tilly! Let’s Go Molly! by Barbara Targonski
Careers
1st Place: The Secrets of the Hidden Workforce by Lisa Toth
2nd Place: You Can’t Stop Me by Allison Aller, illustrated by Nadia Asfand Yar
Chapter Books
1st Place: Flora Investigates: The Case of The Missing Gold Eggs by Saloni Surah, illustrated by Lisa Williams
2nd Place: Bubba and Squirts: City of Bones by Sherry Ellis
Honorable Mention:
A Gherkinary, Squeaktastic, and Cluckendary Odyssey Squared: with Chicken Man, Pickle Man, and the Rat of Justice by Joseph Lupton, illustrated by Robbi Pearcey
Detective Natty and Doggy Dale Follow the Clues by Deborah Hunt
Road Trip with Tia: Maddie’s Tails by Heidi Dellafera Eagleton, illustrated by Amy Thompson
The Adventures of Muffin the Crab by Leyla Malikova-Pirtle
The GIFTS Friends Give Us by Deborah Burke Henderson, illustrated by Anna Famulska
Search for the Lost Crystals by Joanne Lecuyer, illustrated by David Girard
Noodle the Hero and the Metal Machine by David Verza
Sam, Sara, and the Red Butterfly by Jenifer Ratliff
Did You Know? Facts By Norah by Norah Desy
Keep Your Songs in Your Heart by Carolyn Summer Quinn
The Rabbit Princess: The Spirit Sword by R Chen, illustrated by Ed Chen
Sam, Sara, and the Red Ball by Jenifer Ratliff
Sienna & the Magical Christmas by Donald Schaeffer, illustrated by Zoe Ranucci
Charity/Making a Difference
1st Place (tie): Plant Kindness Like Wildflowers: A Teen’s Guide to Spreading Kindness by Ashley Nevison
1st Place (tie): Sophie and the Swans by Holly Peppe, illustrated by Aeron Cargill
2nd Place: A Penny in My Pocket by C.M. Harris, illustrated by Ashlynn Feather
Honorable Mention:
Happy Thoughts: Going to the Aquarium by Lisa Jacovsky
The GIFTS Friends Give Us by Deborah Burke Henderson, illustrated by Anna Famulska
Tex the Explorer and The Jared Box Project by Ellie Smith, illustrated by Eyen Johnson
Where Mice Meet the Sea by Victor Orne
Elvia and the Gift of Passion by Ruthy Ballard
Magical Adventures of Little Kia by Tharuka Prematillake
Missing: A Magical Tale of Wild Teddy Bears by Tomas Kohoutek, illustrated by Tomas Kohoutek
The Cookie Jar by Angelina Natale
The Many Colors of Happiness by Ella Kim
Guapo’s Stories: Guapo’s Great Rescue: Clay Finds a Forever Home by Janet Zappala by Lara Calleja
Joy & Grace: A Tale of Friendship & Kindness by Sara Flanigan
Children’s Nonfiction
1st Place: Finally...HORSES! by Janet Wolanin Alexander
2nd Place (tie): Hi My Name is Betty by Bob Marshall, illustrated by Kristin Marshall
2nd Place (tie): An Unlikely Astronaut by Susan Kilrain and Francis French, illustrated by Becky Hardy
Honorable Mention:
Immune Heroes by Namita Gandhi, illustrated by Tamika Bramwell
Rudy: A Big Horse with a Big Heart by Diane Jones, illustrated by Karen Busch Holman
You Are...Volume One by Lauren Brownrigg
You Are...Volume Two by Lauren Brownrigg
Firewood and Christmas Potatoes by Robin Carole, illustrated by Sally Fantasia
Hobo and Sloopy: A Rescue Tale by Jessica Johnston
Way Up North Where the Kittiwakes Play by Juli-Ann Gasper, illustrated by Joseph Gasper
Second Chances: Moonlight Mile Ranch by Mel Sobolewski
Let Me Tell You About My Mom by Casey Rislov, illustrated by Ron Hayes
Billie the Brain by John Hutton, illustrated by Gabriella Vagnoli
A Visit Through the Wetlands by Sherry Roberts
Jacob Sheep: Do You Have A Little Lamb? by Carolyn Wild
Big Sisters by Gordon Jensen
Fish Bowl by Andy Gutman
Did You Know? Facts by Norah by Norah Desy
Collection of Short Stories
1st Place: Tales by Moons-light: Stories from Before the Great Melt by Ruthy Ballard
2nd Place: 18 Stories Hope, Joy and Endless...Faith by Kalsum A. Choudhry
Honorable Mention:
Even Closer Calls of the Poultry, Veggie, and Rodent Kind! with Chicken Man, Pickle Man, and the Rat of Justice by Joseph Lupton, illustrated by Robbi Pearcey
CJ Silvers - Single Chapter Stories by William Gray, illustrated by Rebecca Gray
Comic Books
1st Place: Hurley’s Heroes by Mark Poulton, illustrated by Fredson Oliveira
Cultural Diversity
1st Place: Fried Rice and Marinara by Mike Yam
2nd Place: Five Little Dumplings: The Lunar New Year Feast by Kelsey Chen
Honorable Mention:
Different Is Just Different by Julie Hundman, illustrated by Elizabeth Wright
Lion’s Water by Shelia Hackbarth, illustrated by Angela Rue Majken Bullard
Little Bun: A Bilingual Storybook About Feelings by Amanda Hsiung-Blodgett, illustrated by Emily Blodgett
The Book of Cultures by Evi Triantfylides, illustrated by Nefeli Malekou
Be Your Own Hero by Dave Pinto
Luka and Little Feather by Ashlee Alicea, illustrated by Nix Doxtater
MY Culture, My Gender, Me by Cassandra Jules Corrigan, illustrated by Mo Butterfly
Shabbat and Sunday Dinner by Candace Bazemore and Gabrielle Spatt, illustrated by Eric Bazemore
Dragon Surf by D.G. Driver and Jeni Bautista Richard
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas: Bilingual English-SPANISH Era la vispera de Navidad by Sally Veillette, Clement Clarke Moore, illustrated by Marco Nifosì
The Belt of Chaos by Shan Shan Nie
The Story of Ukraine: An Anthem of Glory and Freedom by Olena Kharchenko
Coloring the Rainbow: A Story About the Power of Connection by Catherine Rose, illustrated by Jeffrey Dale
Morir Soñando: The Dream Weaver by Jasdomin Santana
The Little Curry Leaf Tree by Moriah Sam
Squire With Fire-Yule Be Gone by Joseph Cassis
Gregorina en Chicago by Milagros Wallace, illustrated by Alynor Diaz
Mya Learns To Count Her Blessings by Rebecca Victor, illustrated by Penny Weber
What Do You See? by Julie Hundman, illustrated by Elizabeth Wright
My Heart Would Like Some More, Please! by Geshu Sugandh, illustrated by Lovyaa Garg
Early Readers
1st Place: BIG HUGS for Kids: Kami visits Connecticut, Georgia, and Idaho by Lisa Galdos, illustrated by Brooke Beaver
2nd Place: A Seed Finds Home by Chentell Merriman
Honorable Mention:
Bentley’s Purpose by Sandra Harry, illustrated by Nikki Boetger
Let’s Go Tilly! Let’s Go Molly! by Barbara Targonski
Lights and Sirens: A Day in the Life of an EMT in an Ambulance by Anya Vikram
Bruno’s Best Birthday by Megan Deliberto, illustrated by Tiemoko Sylia
Roscoe the Bossy Rooster by Becky Thomas
The Magical Adventures of Quizzle and Pinky Palm by Teresa Waterland
Closet of Dreams: The Adventures of Child and Gamma by Mark Ukra, illustrated by Donna Dyer
Star’s Dream by Michael Martins, illustrated by Maria Romero
Mozzarella by Jenna James
Danny the Ducky and Gilly the Goose by Dushka Petkovich
Hilton’s Island by Mary Beth McCarthy, illustrated by Michele Ziemke
If Puppies Had Pockets by Sarah Kuchma, illustrated by Vania Hardy
Fish Bowl by Andy Gutman
Educational/Instructional
1st Place: My Hopi Skopi Book of Times Tables by Sipiwe Sikwila, illustrated by Andrea du Plessis
2nd Place: It’s Pi(e) Day by Jamye Curry Savage
Honorable Mention:
Color Me Culture: Explore Paris by Severine Chanay-Savoyen
Five Little Dumplings Get Ready for School by Kelsey Chen
Biscuit and Gravy Learn About Fire Safety by Shaun Tyson
It’s a Terrible Day (Not Really): Let’s Count by Twos by Nan Evenson
What Is the Shape of My Ears? by Lisa Weckbacher, illustrated by Gabriela Vega
BIG HUGS for Kids: Kami visits Connecticut, Georgia, and Idaho by Lisa Galdos, illustrated by Brooke Beaver
Addison’s Canadian Caper by Laura James, illustrated by Mariya Stoyanova
Exercise/Fitness
1st Place: Getting Healthy with Harley by Dorothy Wills-Raftery
2nd Place: I Can Be an Ultimate Ninja: Hit the Buzzer by Mike Silenzi, Jesse Labreck, Jackie Piejak, Jeff Piejak, illustrated by Alejandro Echavez
Honorable Mention:
BIG HUGS for Kids: Kami visits Connecticut, Georgia, and Idaho by Lisa Galdos, illustrated by Brooke Beaver
Family Matters
1st Place (tie): Sometimes Grandma Calls Me Jean by Jill Pietroburgo
1st Place (tie): Love Connects Us All by Michelle Medlock Adams, illustrated by Sandra Eide
2nd Place: The Truth About Stepmoms by Renee Bolla, illustrated by Jack Button
Honorable Mention:
Little Bun: A Bilingual Storybook About Feelings by Amanda Hsiung-Blodgett, illustrated by Emily Blodgett
Liam’s Big Surprise by Dawn-Renee Young, illustrated by Marta Taylor
I Will Love You Forever and Always by Sarah Thomas Mariano, illustrated by Sarah Gledhill
Under My Pillow by Jennifer Ballow, illustrated by Aroba Sheikh
Belle And Chloe: Reflections in the Mirror by Isabela Sardas
Missing: A Magical Tale of Wild Teddy Bears by Tomas Kohoutek
Where Do Babies Come From? by Bev Stone
The Sapphire Ring by Donna DeMaio Hunt, illustrated by Ethan Hunt
Groggy Froggy by Tamara Jill
Little Miss Linda Copes With Divorce by Linda Holloway, illustrated by Cameron Wilson
My Brother, Born Sleeping by Lellie Lopter
Gregorina en Chicago by Milagros Wallace, illustrated by Alynor Diaz
The Love We Share by Jonathan Casillas, illustrated by Alina Artporta
The Ghost Pooper by Mary Saunders
The Little Red Puppy with a Big Idea by Linda Belkin
Food-Related
1st Place: The Little Boy Who Craved Thanksgiving Leftovers: And the Lessons He Learned by Shani Night
2nd Place: Wellness Warriors by James Tate, illustrated by Tyrus Goshay
Honorable Mention:
Big, Brave Voice: Advice for Children Living with Food Allergies by Emily A. Reed
My Heart Would Like Some More, Please! by Geshu Sugandh, illustrated by Lovyaa Garg
General
1st Place: The Firefly by Toni Driver
2nd Place: Fake Out by Felicia Farber
Honorable Mention:
Behind the Curtain: The Tooth Fairy by Steven Stack, illustrated by Jayden Shambeau
People We Miss by Kimmie Warmflash
The Adventures of Malice in Munsterland: Malice’s Punderful Plants by Mary Saunders
Belle And Chloe: Reflections in the Mirror by Isabela Sardas
Romeo and Emilia: How one brave girl rose up from a wheelchair to the back of a horse by Roni McFadden
Did You Know? by Facts By Norah by Norah Desy
NuhQuim, The Little Red Puppy by Jacqueline Paul
Global & Social Issues
1st Place: Through My Mothers Eyes by Toluwalola Kasali
2nd Place: My Wonderful Body: Living and Thriving with an Autoimmune Disease by Dr. Joy Pillay
Graphic Novel
1st Place: Ava the Monster Slayer: Sleepover Superheroes by Lisa Maggiore, illustrated by Ross Felten
2nd Place: Here Come the Mice: The Jet Stream Team by Reginald Howard
Green Books/Environmental
1st Place: Fish in the Desert: The Untold Story of the Death Valley Pupfish by Adalgisa Nico and David Nico, illustrated by Andy Atkins
2nd Place: Giver of Gifts: Nature’s Story of Hope by Everly Cade, illustrated by Sabrina Riegler
Honorable Mention:
The Oyster Garden by Camille Klump, illustrated by Mike Roberts
A Better Home by Christian Yoon
Way Up North Where the Kittiwakes Play by Juli-Ann Gasper, illustrated by Josph Gasper
The Forest Girls, at the Edge of Land and Sea by Sissel Waage, illustrated by Ana-Maria Cosma
ChokaWaka and The Moon Tales by Lynn Hall
A Second Chance at Life by Leticia Cheng
Nature Ninja Saves the Natural World by Tania Moloney, illustrated by Jelena Sardi
Flora The Fish and the Plastic Plight by Teya Knightingale
The Magic Sea Turtle by Kathleen Welton, illustrated by Chau Pham
Growing Pains
1st Place: Stardust: A Journey to Remember by Garrett Brill, illustrated by Daniel Fleck
2nd Place: The Last First Tooth by Kat Hyde
Honorable Mention:
The GIFTS Friends Give Us by Deborah Burke Henderson, illustrated by Anna Famulska
The Late Bloomer by M. Woods
BIG HUGS for Kids: Kami visits Connecticut, Georgia, and Idaho by Lisa Galdos, illustrated by Brooke Beaver
Worry Won’t Win by Christine Reynebeau, illustrated by Rachael Hawkins
Big Sisters by Gordon Jensen
Health
1st Place (tie): My Wonderful Body: Living and Thriving with an Autoimmune Disease by Dr. Joy Pillay
1st Place (tie): A Wallop of Worries by Alyssa Caparaso Hurley, illustrated by Vicky Kuhn
2nd Place: Susie Sloth and her Secret Superpower by Charlotte Marsh, illustrated by Charlotte Watkins
Honorable Mention:
Me, My Selfie, and I: Discovering and Embracing a True Love or Self by Lisa MacDonald
What is that Glowing Screen? by Kathy Muench
Isabella’s Adventures in Tooth Fairy Land by Maya Gupta, illustrated by Danilo Cerovic
Wellness Warriors by James Tate, illustrated by Tyrus Goshay
Belle And Chloe: Reflections in the Mirror by Isabela Sardas
Tiney Tiny Turner What’s That Smell! by Webilor Ediale, illustrated by Shiela Alejandro
Historical Fiction
1st Place: Running for Shelter: A True Story by Suzette Sheft
2nd Place: The Incredible Adventures of Chana in Judea by Emil Buchman
Honorable Mention:
Unlocking Blackbeard’s Skeletons by Robin Reams
The Story of Ukraine: An Anthem of Glory and Freedom by Olena Kharchenko
Polly Sumner: Witness to the Boston Tea Party by Richard Wiggin, illustrated by Keith Favazza
Keep Your Songs In Your Heart by Carolyn Summer Quinn
Little Miss Linda: BAD Girls of Montgomery by Linda Holloway, illustrated by Cameron Wilson
Historical Nonfiction
1st Place: The Flight of My Life by Jennifer Somervell, illustrated by Margery Fern
Holiday
1st Place: Holidays All Year with Pomp, Snow, and Cirqueumstance by Neil Goldberg and Niko Nickolaou, illustrated by John Kelly
2nd Place (tie): ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas: Bilingual English-SPANISH Era la vispera de Navidad by Sally Veillette, Clement Clarke Moore, illustrated by Marco Nifosì
2nd Place (tie): A Beautiful Story: Jesus & St. Nick by Sarah French, illustrated by Robert Sauber
Honorable Mention:
A Code Red Christmas by Camille Klump, illustrated by Beatriz Del Alamo
Firewood and Christmas Potatoes by Robin Carole, illustrated by Sally Fantasia
The Little Boy Who Craved Thanksgiving Leftovers: And the Lessons He Learned by Shani Night
Tick Tock the Christmas Mouse: A Kaminski House Museum Story by Christine Thomas Doran, illustrated by Janice M. Coward
Magic on the Mountainside by Nancy Jurka, illustrated by Michelle Williams
Gona’s Halloween Hunt by Carla Crane Osborne, illustrated by Michael Crane
Dog at the Tinsel Tree: Susie’s Story by Denise Lee Branco
Let’s Celebrate You! by Junia Wonders, illustrated by Clarissa Corradin
Rosie and Teddy by Karina Coghlan, illustrated by Alison Mutton
Sleigh Magic by Susan Vaughn, illustrated by Thomas Brooks
Sweet Baby Halloween: A Rhyming Book for Little Girls & Boys by Victoria Scudder
Squire With Fire-Yule Be Gone by Joseph Cassis
Thankful FUR You by Hillary Harper, illustrated by Felipe Calv
Sienna & the Magical Christmas by Donald Schaeffer, illustrated by Zoe Ranucci
A Palm Tree’s Christmas Wish by Pina Bird
Humor
1st Place: The Fabulous Life of Minnie the Sassy Chick: Minnie Steals The Show by Cindy Shirley
2nd Place: The Trouble with Bubble Gum by Shari Schwert
Honorable Mention:
I Think My Cat is a Spy! by Rayla Ray, illustrated by Ruya Karakaya
Letters, Journals
1st Place: Plant Kindness Like Wildflowers-A Teen’s Guide to Spreading Kindness by Ashley Nevison
LGBT
1st Place: Star’s Dream by Michael Martins, illustrated by Maria Romero
2nd Place: The Dinosaur with Colorful Feathers by Sam Viana
Middle Grade Fiction
1st Place: Drifters Realm: Book 1 by AnneMarie Mazotti Gouveia
2nd Place: The Galaxy According to CeCe by Sherry Roberts
Honorable Mention:
Down the Monster Hole, or Don’t Be Afraid, I Am Only a Child by Carmela Tai Baron
Jiu-Jitsu Girl by Jennifer Dutton
Journey to the Name Maker by Maxine Johone-Smith
A Wish to Save Christmas by Len Senecal
Alice The Cat by Tim Cummings
Mysterious Tales of the Unexplained, Volume 3 by Patricia Miller
Spy by Bryce Benjamin Ticen
The Ghost in the Garden by Alisse Lee Goldenberg
The Secret Doors of Cannondale by Stephanie Brick
Just Like Click by Sandy Grubb
Black Hole Radio: Labyrinthia by Ann Birdgenaw
The Incredibly Amazing and Magical Flying Chair by Nancy Machlis Rechtman and Bob Shumaker
Another World by A.J. Hughes
Frankie and the Gift of Fantasy by Ruthy Ballard
The Wonderful Tale of Donkey Skin by Fawzia Tung, illustrated by Kadhima Tung
Good Boy, Eddie by Rennie Dyball
Belle And Chloe: Reflections in the Mirror by Isabela Sardas
Chika’s Mysterious Phone by Hugh Pittman, illustrated by Alexey Kudravtsev
Elvia and the Gift of Passion by Ruthy Ballard
Noodle the Hero and the Metal Machine by David Verza
The Three Stones of Ebon by David Mello
Mylo and the Witch’s Orb by Kristen Eads
LITE: The High Treason Incident by A.G. Roberts, illustrated by Alicia Schwab
Mirror Tree by AnneMarie Mazotti Gouveia
Rolo the Pet Earthling by Hans Ness, illustrated by Sofia Komarenko
Dylan Dover: Into The Vortex by Lynne Howard
If You Like Animals Better Than People by Forest Bae
The Rabbit Princess: The Spirit Sword by R Chen, illustrated by Ed Chen
A Nose Apart: The Third Adventure by Deborah Edmisten
Mystery
1st Place: Crime Busters, Inc: Pet Poison No. 9 by Kiki Houser
2nd Place: Mysterious Tales of the Unexplained, Volume 3 by Patricia Miller
New Author: Fiction
1st Place: Running for Shelter: A True Story by Suzette Sheft
2nd Place: How to Defeat Bully Brain: A Story About OCD by Ella Kim, illustrated by Andi Andriansyah
Honorable Mention:
Lights and Sirens: A Day in the Life of an EMT in an Ambulance by Anya Vikram
Lion’s Water by Shelia Hackbarth, illustrated by Angela Rue Majken Bullard
Spy by Bryce Benjamin Ticen
Stardust: A Journey to Remember by Garrett Brill, illustrated by Daniel Fleck
Stoat and New: Go to Norway by Jacob Rice
The Fluffy Flock by Anya Vikram
The Incredible Adventures of Chana in Judea by Emil Buchman
The Sad Princess: The search for a a happily-ever-after smile by Dannielle Levy, illustrated by Rebecca Lisotta
The Secret Doors of Cannondale by Stephanie Brick
What is that Glowing Screen? by Kathy Muench
Help Me Be Me by Samantha Reynolds, illustrated by Jessica Hiemstra
Way Up North Where the Kittiwakes Play by Juli-Ann Gasper, illustrated by Josph Gasper
Roscoe the Bossy Rooster by Becky Thomas
Ella and her Magic Umbrella by Kevin Macdonald
Grammy’s Treasure Hunt: Cameron’s Choices by Joan Marie
Hobby Thought the Sky Was Blue by Christy Eiler Ward
It’s Pi(e) Day by Jamye Curry Savage
The Firefly by Toni Driver
The Wonderful Tale of Donkey Skin by Fawzia Tung, illustrated by Kadhima Tung
Just Like Click by Sandy Grubb
ChokaWaka and The Moon Tales by Lynn Hall
Visit The Stars by Naila Syed, illustrated by Anastasiia Khodak
The Magical Adventures of Quizzle and Pinky Palm by Teresa Waterland
Belle And Chloe: Reflections in the Mirror by Isabela Sardas
Mylo and the Witch’s Orb by Kristen Eads
A Garden Tail by Gene Baxley Schwiers, illustrated by Sarah Sneeden
Greeny by Nielle Marques
Noodle the Hero and the Metal Machine by David Verza
The Busy Bear Club by JR James
The Magic Nanny: What’s for Dinner? by Wanda Taylor
The Four Curious Bears by Kelly Rosa, illustrated by Martina Terzi
Squirrels Bowling on the Roof: A Silly Story that Sounds Sensational by Stephanie Warlick, illustrated by Laurentiu Dumitru
The Last First Tooth by Kat Hyde
Coloring the Rainbow: A Story About the Power of Connection by Catherine Rose, illustrated by Jeffrey Dale
Enchanted Valley by Sheila Rowe
LITE: The High Treason Incident by A.G. Roberts, illustrated by Alicia Schwab
Way Up North Where the Kittiwakes Play by Juli-Ann Gasper, illustrated by Joseph Gasper
Meet Thimblebee by Bonnie Galindo
My Sunshine Space by Mariellen Rich, illustrated by Emily Dunlap
NuhQuim, The Little Red Puppy by Jacqueline Paul
Groggy Froggy by Tamara Jill
Just The Two of Us: A Bedtime Story for Dads by Leeonie Mignott
The Sparkly Bun by Keith Stoeckeler, illustrated by Lana Lee
BIG HUGS for Kids: Kami visits Connecticut, Georgia, and Idaho by Lisa Galdos, illustrated by Brooke Beaver
The Little Curry Leaf Tree by Moriah Sam
CRISPR: The Life Saving Hero by Katie Xu, illustrated by Kristina Guo
Dylan Dover: Into The Vortex by Lynne Howard
The Axolotl: Adventures in Minecraft by Hayden Coles, illustrated by Hayden Coles
Bud by Ann Fleming, illustrated by Daria Vinokurova
You Can’t Stop Me by Allison Aller
Alphakazoo by Edgar Garcia, illustrated by Darya Shch
Thankful FUR You by Hillary Harper, illustrated by Felipe Calv
Sam, Sara, and the Red Ball by Jenifer Ratliff
Joy & Grace: A Tale of Friendship & Kindness by Sara Flanigan
All I Gained by Dale Maiella and Kara Shade, illustrated by Kathleen Andrews
Alice The Cat by Tim Cummings
Firewood and Christmas Potatoes by Robin Carole, illustrated by Sally Fantasia
Let’s Go Tilly! Let’s Go Molly! by Barbara Targonski
Andrew Conquers the Court by Antonietta Tripodi Quinn, illustrated by Eva Morales
New Author: Nonfiction
Honorable Mention:
Did You Know? Facts By Norah by Norah Desy
The Dinosaurs of Appalachia by Alex McLean
Everything Tesla: From How They Work to How Fast They Go and All the Fun In Between by Aiden Miao and Eliana Miao
Outdoor Recreation
1st Place: Do Your Best: How to be a Scout by Bear Grylls
2nd Place: Adventures with Mimi: Evalee Goes Fishing by Jordan Petter, illustrated by Lidia Fernandez Abril
Honorable Mention:
The Critter Catoon Goes Camping: The Mystery of the Naughty-Nelly, Dirty-Rotten, Icky-Sticky, Yucky Ducky, Thief by Kimberly Becker
Jordan the Jellyfish: A Chesapeake Bay Adventure by Cindy Freland by Jon Munson
Picture Books 5 & Younger
1st Place (tie): Help Me Be Me by Samantha Reynolds, illustrated by Jessica Hiemstra
1st Place (tie): The Cousins Are Coming by Kay Jones, illustrated by Peter Trimarco
1st Place (tie): Dirty Feet by Jennifer Reed, illustrated by Kim Sponaugle
1st Place (tie): A Purpose for Patches by Gail Oxford, illustrated by Melissa Fox
2nd Place (tie): The Chicken on the Moon by Jana Farris
2nd Place (tie): A Fairy on My Sleeve by Mari Sherkin, illustrated by David Gnass
2nd Place (tie): Bobby the Bear Helps Build a Nest by Ryan O'Connor
Honorable Mention:
Abella and the Almost Racehorse by Zane Carson Carruth
Bentley’s Fantabulous Idea: Special Edition by Miki Taylor
Bubba and Squirt’s Big Dig to China by Sherry Ellis
Christina and Rosie: And the Bird that Can’t Fly by Rita Hillier
Curious Chris: Why No Flamingos by Cindy B. Witty
Frog Tea by Keri-Ann Parker, illustrated by Francesca Da Sacco
Let’s Go Tilly! Let’s Go Molly! by Barbara Targonski
Lily’s Wondrous World: A Day in the Park by Marc Polett, illustrated by Vasya Baev
Little Bun: A Bilingual Storybook About Feelings by Amanda Hsiung-Blodgett, illustrated by Emily Blodgett
Luna Blanca by David Lane, illustrated by Caleb McBee
Meeting Nanny Heather by Marianne Selinger
Oh, No, Bunny - You’re Still Not Funny! by Michele L. Sayre
Puffin Lullaby by Ruth Amanda
Raccoons Go Rafting by Rachel Vogel
The Adventures of Joanie and Juliet by Rishawna Gould, illustrated by DG
Where My Imaginations Come To Life by Younwoo Cho
Princess Sofia’s Special School Adventure by Donna Frost, illustrated by Lisa J Michaels
Treasure Chest of Kisses: I Am Made of Love by Sky Eiko Pham, illustrated by Thuy Mai Thy
You Are...Volume One by Lauren Brownrigg
Rocco’s Adventure of Gratitude by Nina Kid
Sophia and Sinclair Get Lost! by Colleen Olle, illustrated by Marcy Tippmann
Ella and her Magic Umbrella by Kevin Macdonald
I’d Rather Be Me by Emily Peace Harrison, illustrated by Dacil Curbelos
PISA Loves Bella: A Towering Tale of Kindness by Kimberley Lovato, illustrated by Barbara Bongini
Sleep Well, Mi Amor by Blaina Tallent Best
Sleigh Magic by Susan Vaughn, illustrated by Thomas Brooks
Whose Manger is This? by Lisa Robbins, illustrated by Tatiana Kochan
Stella’s Brave Voice by Marissa Bader, illustrated by Arlene Soto
The Forest Girls, at the Edge of Land and Sea by Sissel Waage, illustrated by Ana-Maria Cosma
Tex the Explorer and The Jared Box Project by Ellie Smith, illustrated by Eyen Johnson
Summer Break With Vicky and Tweedle by Kris Benny
Nishka’s Golden Heart by Mel Kucenic, illustrated by Mariya Stoyanova
Friendly Fright by C. Anne, illustrated by Alessandra Liane
Stoat and New: Go to Norway by Jacob Rice, illustrated by Emelie Wiklund
Where Do Babies Come From? by Bev Stone
Greeny by Nielle Marques, illustrated by Nelle Marques
Sounds of The Pacific Northwest by Anna Hill, illustrated by Dru Hill
The Four Curious Bears by Kelly Rosa, illustrated by Martina Terzi
Abigail, Adventures of a Curious What Duck by Christina Minutoli
Coloring the Rainbow: A Story About the Power of Connection by Catherine Rose, illustrated by Jeffrey Dale
Donkey Dell by Jaybie D
A Sofia Special by Julie Falatko, illustrated by Vivian Mineker
Choo! Choo! Choo! The Train at the Zoo by Kathleen Welton, illustrated by Tamara Joubert
Ess-Car-Go! by Ruth Amanda
Ms. Alberta: Feline Barn Manager by Diana Tuorto, illustrated by Ava Bucci
My Mischievous Wheelchair by Molly David
Kody’s Capers Finding Joy by Terri Abbatiello
Glitter the Unicorn Goes to the Movies by Callie Chapman, illustrated by Bronwyne Chapman
Tick Rex: Queen of the Woods by Ruth Thomas, illustrated by Russell Thomas
The Little Curry Leaf Tree by Moriah Sam
What If Bedtime Didn’t Exist by Francine Cunningham, illustrated by Mathias Ball
Hilton’s Island by Mary Beth McCarthy, illustrated by Michele Ziemke
Bud by Ann Fleming, illustrated by Daria Vinokurova
Why Don’t You Just Grow Some Fur? by Nick Moreland, illustrated by QBN Studios
Gus the Magnificent Gus el Magnífico by Sam Viana
Alphakazoo by Edgar Garcia, illustrated by Darya Shch
Big Sisters by Gordon Jensen
The Dancing Darlings by Angela Kyparissis
Bonnie No-Gloom by Tracy Ahrens
Raphael Raccoon Makes Mistakes by Chris Stuart, illustrated by Kiran Akram
The Kitty Cat Brigade by Julianne Dumas
The Little Red Puppy with a Big Idea by Linda Belkin
Picture Books 6 & Older
1st Place (tie): The Trouble with Children by Katie Weaver, illustrated by Caner Soylu
1st Place (tie): What If We Were All The Same! by C.M. Harris, illustrated by Ashlynn Feather
1st Place (tie): The Cousins Are Coming by Kay Jones, illustrated by Peter Trimarco
1st Place (tie): Chilla Gorilla & Lanky Lemur Journey to the Heart by Kimberly Snyder & Jon Bier
1st Place (tie): Uh-Oh! My Dragon’s Hungry by Katie Weaver, illustrated by Caner Soylu
1st Place (tie): PISA Loves Bella: A Towering Tale of Kindness by Kimberley Lovato, illustrated by Barbara Bongini
2nd Place (tie): Coco the Mooing Horse by Leila Summers, illustrated by Olesya Burina
2nd Place (tie): Gibble the Goblin Has a Problem by Cad Wampus
2nd Place (tie): An Unlikely Astronaut by Susan Kilrain and Francis French, illustrated by Becky Hardy
Honorable Mention:
A Firefly Named Felix by Deanna Hart
Bentley’s Purpose by Sandra Harry
Christina and Rosie: And the Bird that Can’t Fly by Rita Hillier
Everything Tesla: From How They Work to How Fast They Go and All the Fun In Between by Aiden Miao and Eliana Miao
Firewood and Christmas Potatoes by Robin Carole, illustrated by Sally Fantasia
How the Unicorn Said Goodbye by Vicki Mayhew
Journey to the Name Maker by Maxine Johone-Smith
Kids and Doggies Buddy Up for Reading Fun by Marsha Horshok
Miso and Kili’s Flying Adventures: New Island Friends by J.M. Chrismer, illustrated by Ilya Fortuna
Puffin Lullaby by Ruth Amanda
Sleigh Magic by Susan Vaughn, illustrated by Thomas Brooks
The Bouncing Ant by Sally Sunflower, illustrated by Stephen Stone
The Fluffy Flock by Anya Vikram
The Late Bloomer by M. Woods
Arletis, Abuelo, and the Message in a Bottle by Lea Aschkenas, illustrated by Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu
Fish in the Desert: The Untold Story of the Death Valley Pupfish by Adalgisa Nico and David Nico, illustrated by Andy Atkins
Princess Sofia’s Special School Adventure by Donna Frost, illustrated by Lisa J Michaels
Bruno’s Best Birthday by Megan Deliberto, illustrated by Tiemoko Sylia
Can You Imagine What Would Happen If... by Pamela Cannalte, illustrated by Steven Beutler
Mistakes are Gifts by Maria Cedolini Thompson, illustrated by Daria Shamolina
Ozzy Ox Stands Against Socks by Callen Kropp
Robots of Mars - The Robot Factory by Don Fox
Sophia and Sinclair Get Lost! by Colleen Olle, illustrated by Marcy Tippmann
Andrew Conquers the Court by Antonietta Tripodi Quinn, illustrated by Eva Morales
Because Barbara by Sarah Mackenzie
Ess-Car-Go! by Ruth Amanda
Hatch Chile Willie by Rachel Bate, illustrated by Rebecca Jacob
Hobby Thought the Sky Was Blue by Christy Eiler Ward
Land of the Cryptids by Jeylin Garcia, illustrated by Jeylin Garcia
Luka and Little Feather by Ashlee Alicea, illustrated by Nix Doxtater
The Wonderful Tale of Donkey Skin by Fawzia Tung, illustrated by Kadhima Tung
Gona’s Halloween Hunt by Carla Crane Osborne, illustrated by Michael Crane
The Adventures of Birpus & Bulbus: The Sour Milk Dragon by Wynn Everett-Albanese and Michael Albanese, illustrated by Indre Ta
Isabella’s Adventures in Tooth Fairy Land by Maya Gupta, illustrated by Danilo Cerovic
Tex the Explorer and The Jared Box Project by Ellie Smith, illustrated by Eyen Johnson
The Flight of My Life by Jennifer Somervell, illustrated by Margery Fern
Belle And Chloe: Reflections in the Mirror by Isabela Sardas
Jordan the Jellyfish: A Chesapeake Bay Adventure by Cindy Freland, illustrated by Jon Munson
Laurel’s Marvelous Kingdom by Monique Roy
Mannon Finds His Feelings by Yolanda Stanton, illustrated by Aprial D’ Angelo
Marvin’s Little Mermaid by Deborah Stevenson
The Acorn & the Oak by Rhonda Accardo, illustrated by Jessica Waterstradt
Wake Up, Daddy! I Can Do My Chores! by Tac Tac, illustrated by Kaitlyn Taylor
Where Do Babies Come From? by Bev Stone
The Little Goblin by Joanne Lecuyer, illustrated by Steve Ebdon
Bentley’s Purpose by Sandra Harry, illustrated by Nikki Boetger
The Last First Tooth by Kat Hyde
Adventures with Mimi: Evalee Goes Fishing by Jordan Petter, illustrated by Lidia Fernandez Abril
Candace’s Big Audition by Joan Enockson
Hazel’s Enchanted Journey by Maria Garnett Fewer
A Sofia Special by Julie Falatko, illustrated by Vivian Mineker
ChokaWaka and The Moon Tales by Lynn Hall
Tasha Goes to Puppy School by Steve Devon
Kody’s Capers: Finding Joy by Terri Abbatiello
Meet Thimblebee by Bonnie Galindo
There’s a Duck in the House by Don M. Winn, illustrated by Joshua Wichterich
Cooped Up Cats by Amy Pulliam, illustrated by Vince Ortiz
Eugene’s Hygiene Hy-Jinks by Jesse Raspler, illustrated by Volodymyr Nachas
Nature Ninja Saves the Natural World by Tania Moloney, illustrated by Jelena Sardi
Adveristy Road by Kendall Newell, illustrated by Tionna Clarida
Dressing for Dreamtime by J.E. Rogers
The Boy Who Saved the Moon by Dennis DeRoberts, illustrated by Jessica Warrick
Tick Rex: Queen of the Woods by Ruth Thomas, illustrated by Russell Thomas
Fariha’s Energy by Sarah Shehata, illustrated by Aly Elzeiny
And God Smiled by Barbara Spangler
Squire With Fire-Yule Be Gone by Joseph Cassis
Gus the Magnificent Gus el Magnífico by Sam Viana
Dino’s Try: Baking by Michelle McCombs, illustrated by James McCombs Jr
Gregorina en Chicago by Milagros Wallace, illustrated by Alynor Diaz
A Purpose for Patches by Gail Oxford, illustrated by Melissa Fox
A Tall Tale: How the Ostriches Got Their Long Necks and Long Legs by Scott Sollers, illustrated by Alejandro Echavez
My Teacher Is Not Real by Amy Pulliam, illustrated by Venus Redwood
Larry the Lobster Has Lupus by Dharma Lee
You Can’t Stop Me by Allison Aller, illustrated by Nadia Asfand Yar
Mei-Mei Flying With Flair by Jaybie D
Raphael Raccoon Makes Mistakes by Chris Stuart, illustrated by Kiran Akram
The Inspiring World of Ella Rose La Fleur by Lori Schneider, illustrated by Owen Moloney
All I Gained by Dale Maiella and Kara Shade, illustrated by Kathleen Andrews
The Inspiring World of Ella Rose La Fleur by Lori Schneider, illustrated by Owen Moloney
The Taekwonderoos: Rescue at Rattling Ridge by Michael Panzner, illustrated by Lora Look
How to Defeat Bully Brain: A Story About OCD by Ella Kim, illustrated by Andi Andriansyah
Poetry
1st Place: Haisley’s Birthday Money by Nycole Freer, illustrated by Seema Haider
2nd Place: Uh-Oh! My Dragon’s Hungry by Katie Weaver, illustrated by Caner Soylu
Honorable Mention:
Adveristy Road by Kendall Newell, illustrated by Tionna Clarida
Enchanted Valley by Sheila Rowe
Come to Me Called the Sea by Maria Best, illustrated by Al Best
Spilled Ink & Coffee Stains: A Collection of Poetry by MK Standby
Big Sisters by Gordon Jensen
A Child’s Journey Through Poetry Vol 2 by Sabinah Adewole
The Late Bloomer by M. Woods
School Issues
1st Place (tie): What If We Were All The Same! by C.M. Harris, illustrated by Ashlynn Feather
1st Place (tie): Bobby the Bear Helps Build a Nest by Ryan O'Connor
2nd Place: My Teacher Is Not Real by Amy Pulliam, illustrated by Venus Redwood
Honorable Mention:
A Firefly Named Felix by Deanna Hart
From “Loser” to Legend: How 60+ Celebrities Survived and Thrived after Bullying by Patricia Stahl
Kind Rocks Island and Kind Rocks Island Adventures by Debbie Lemke
BeeBop: The Honeybee Wannabe Hero by James D. Bell
Mistakes are Gifts by Maria Cedolini Thompson, illustrated by Daria Shamolina
The Beauties Bullying Adventure by Barbara Lucas
The Noble Adventures of Beryl and Carol by Jeremy Sherr, illustrated by Talya Baldwin
Roscoe the Bossy Rooster by Becky Thomas
Brady Rules! by Julie Hundman, illustrated by Elizabeth Wright
Lou Can Too by Mia McGlynn
Fake Out by Felicia Farber
A Sofia Special by Julie Falatko, illustrated by Vivian Mineker
Daddy Yo-Yo and the Legendary Marble Tournament by Janice Toney, illustrated by Jason Langford
Wilda Reads at Recess by Karen Georgiev, illustrated by Emily Hopkins
Who Let the Nerves Out? by Loreal Ivory
The Sparkly Bun by Keith Stoeckeler, illustrated by Lana Lee
Dottie Meets Mully the Bully by Amy Moy
Eliza Jane Finds Her Hero by Eliza Kelley, illustrated by Patricia Culwell
Where’s My Broccoli, Dad? by Samuel R. Herndon
You Can’t Stop Me by Allison Aller
Raphael Raccoon Makes Mistakes by Chris Stuart, illustrated by Kiran Akram
Science Fiction/Fantasy
1st Place (tie): Tales by Moons-light: Stories from before the Great Melt by Ruthy Ballard
1st Place (tie): Mirror Tree by AnneMarie Mazotti Gouveia
2nd Place: Frankie and the Gift of Fantasy by Ruthy Ballard
Honorable Mention:
Mission Longshot by Sam Hawksmoor
Secret of the Lost Dragons, Book 2 of Guardians of Time by Phyllis Wheeler, illustrated by Vitoria Gurgel
Visit The Stars by Naila Syed, illustrated by Anastasiia Khodak
Mylo and the Witch’s Orb by Kristen Eads
Elvia and the Gift of Passion by Ruthy Ballard
Rolo the Pet Earthling by Hans Ness, illustrated by Sofia Komarenko
Dylan Dover: Into The Vortex by Lynne Howard
The Rabbit Princess: The Spirit Sword by R Chen, illustrated by Ed Chen
Special Needs/Disability Awareness
1st Place: How to Defeat Bully Brain: A Story About OCD by Ella Kim, illustrated by Andi Andriansyah
2nd Place: Jo’s Special Gifts by Mariam Shapera, illustrated by Lorna Humphreys
Honorable Mention:
The Fluffy Flock by Anya Vikram
Where My Imaginations Come To Life by Younwoo Choo
Bold & Brave by K.A. Cummins
Molly’s Miracle by WB Murph
Shayla Boo and You: All About My Hearing by Vielka Montout
Tessa The Air Tanker Finds Her Courage by Rebecca Victor, illustrated by Penny Weber
Belle and Chloe: Reflections in the Mirror by Isabela Sardas, PH.D
The Many Colors of Happiness by Ella Kim
Dottie Meets Mully the Bully by Amy Moy
Eliza Jane Finds Her Hero by Eliza Kelley, illustrated by Patricia Culwell
Happy Hands by Marisa Mieczkowski, illustrated by Eleonora Petrova
You Can’t Stop Me by Allison Aller, illustrated by Nadia Asfand Yar
Spiritual/Religious
1st Place: Our God is Bigger Than That! by Michelle Medlock Adams
2nd Place (tie): The Acorn & the Oak by Rhonda Accardo, illustrated by Jessica Waterstradt
2nd Place (tie): A Beautiful Story: Jesus & St. Nick by Sarah French, illustrated by Robert Sauber
Honorable Mention:
You Are...Volume One by Lauren Brownrigg
You Are...Volume Two by Lauren Brownrigg
Alice the Cat by Tim Cummings
Hobo and Sloopy: A Rescue Tale by Jessica Johnston
Sometimes Grandma Calls Me Jean by Jill Pietroburgo
Kona by John Barnett, illustrated by Darcy Bell-Myers
Samah the Seed by Sarah Gowayed, illustrated by Amanda Letcher
Let Your Light So Shine: A Prayer Coloring Book by Samantha Snyder
Coloring the Rainbow: A Story About the Power of Connection by Catherine Rose, illustrated by Jeffrey Dale
Aging Fabulously: 52 Devotions Sure to Give You a Faith-Lift by Michelle Medlock Adams, illustrated by Connie Clyburn
Grace Heard a Whisper by Kathy Izard, illustrated by Aniella Emandez
My Brother, Born Sleeping by Lellie Lopter
Marcus and the Emperor’s Coin by Dennis Conrad, illustrated by Courtney Smith
The Firefly by Toni Driver
Elegy for an Elephant by Ryan Abramowitz
Meet the Love Doves by Sebastian Giodrano, illustrated by Alynor Diaz
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math)
1st Place: Visit The Stars by Naila Syed, illustrated by Anastasiia Khodak
2nd Place (tie): It’s Pi(e) Day by Jamye Curry Savage
2nd Place (tie): An Unlikely Astronaut by Susan Kilrain and Francis French, illustrated by Becky Hardy
Honorable Mention:
Fish in the Desert: The Untold Story of the Death Valley Pupfish by Adalgisa Nico and David Nico, illustrated by Andy Atkins
Immune Heroes by Namita Gandhi, illustrated by Tamika Bramwell
CRISPR: The Life Saving Hero by Katie Xu, illustrated by Kristina Guo
My Teacher Is Not Real by Amy Pulliam, illustrated by Venus Redwood
Sparkle Ghetty Becomes a Problem Solver! by Crystel Patterson, illustrated by Briana Young
Nurse Florence, How Do We Understand Time? by Michael Dow, illustrated by Lindsay Roberts
Website
1st Place: Bentley’s Fantabulous Idea: Special Edition by Miki Taylor
2nd Place: A Sofia Special by Julie Falatko, illustrated by Vivian Mineker
Honorable Mention:
Penelope The Pesky Pelican by Scotty Bolleter, illustrated by Evelina Losich
Young Adult Fiction
1st Place: Running for Shelter: A True Story by Suzette Sheft
2nd Place: Fake Out by Felicia Farber
Honorable Mention:
The Noble Adventures or Beryl and Carol by Jeremy Sherr, illustrated by Talya Baldwin
Sword Heiress: Violet Moon Series Book 3 by Alissa Hope Wagner
Bad Love Strikes by Kevin Schewe MD
The Rabbit Princess: The Spirit Sword by R Chen, illustrated by Ed Chen
Youth Author Fiction
1st Place: Running for Shelter: A True Story by Suzette Sheft
2nd Place: Plant Kindness Like Wildflowers-A Teen’s Guide to Spreading Kindness by Ashley Nevison, illustrated by Ashley Nevison
Honorable Mention:
A Better Home by Christian Yoon
Frog Tea by Keri-Ann Parker, illustrated by Francesca Da Sacco
How to Defeat Bully Brain: A Story About OCD by Ella Kim, illustrated by Andi Andriansyah
Lights and Sirens: A Day in the Life of an EMT in an Ambulance by Anya Vikram
Spy by Bryce Benjamin Ticen
The Fluffy Flock by Anya Vikram
Where My Imaginations Come To Life by Younwoo Choo
Isabella’s Adventures in Tooth Fairy Land by Maya Gupta, illustrated by Danilo Cerovic
The Grow Up Garden: From Seed to STEM by Evangeline Gatz
The Many Colors of Happiness by Ella Kim
A Second Chance at Life by Leticia Cheng
Glitter the Unicorn Goes to the Movies by Callie Chapman, illustrated by Bronwyne Chapman
The Axolotl: Adventures in Minecraft by Hayden Coles
CRISPR: The Life Saving Hero by Katie Xu, illustrated by Kristina Guo
Youth Author Nonfiction
1st Place: Let’s Go Tilly! Let’s Go Molly! by Barbara Targonski
Honorable Mention:
Did You Know?: Facts By Norah by Norah Desy