Moonbeam Awards News
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CELEBRATING LITERACY AND LEARNING THROUGH READING: 2017 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards Entry Deadline Approaching
(Traverse City, MI - Aug. 3, 2017) We’ve all heard slogans like "Reading is Fundamental" and "Read Early and Read Often" to express the importance of early childhood literacy. The annual Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards contest has that philosophy at its core, and each year around 160 children's book authors, illustrators and publishers are honored with Moonbeam Award medals for their dedication to inspiring young people to read and to love books. The final deadline to enter this year's eleventh annual contest is just ten days away, on August 12th.
From board books for toddlers aimed at blooming curiosity, to mature-themed young adult books helping teens grapple with life, the contest recognizes excellence in categories for children of every age. The 2016 Moonbeam winners showcase not just the importance of reading at every stage of childhood development, but also the breadth of issues that books can tackle. Whether encouraging a child’s budding interest in a STEM career, dealing with the ramifications of cancer, or simply celebrating a new day, these exceptional books prove that a love of reading can be introduced at every age and through any topic.
"Especially with all the distractions of cell phones and other electronic gadgets, kids need a reason to fall in love with books," says awards director Jim Barnes. "Our contest and book festival are designed to do just that, bringing authors and children together to celebrate the magic of books and reading."
While the 2017 winners are yet to be determined, the quality of the entries thus far speak to the talent and passion of children’s book authors, illustrators, designers, and publishers who are rising to the challenges of getting kids to read. The contest will accept entries for just ten more days, closing on August 12th and announcing results in early October after the judging period. Medalists are celebrated at an award ceremony following the Traverse City Children’s Book Festival in Traverse City, Michigan on November 11th.
“Based on the talent we saw in 2016, the 2017 winners are anyone’s guess,” says Barnes. “But one thing is clear: these winners will promote literacy in the best way, by making reading fun for children. Stay tuned to find out who will win!”