November 21, 2009 (Catholic education, Catholic schools)

In addition to the TD Canadian Children’s Literature Award, The Canadian Children’s Book Centre (CCBC) announced the winners of the three additional major children’s book awards it administers. The winners were announced last night at a gala event at The Carlu in Toronto.

This year’s winning titles will captivate the hearts and imaginations of children and adults everywhere. Readers will be introduced to a lonely boy and the Popsicle sticks, puddles, poetry and paint that help him find hope; to two children’s tragic yet optimistic experiences in a residential school; to a child victim of the Sierra Leone war and her inspiring journey; and to 15-year-old Ben and the place that he so wants to escape.

These books exemplify some of the best work by Canadian authors and illustrators. The Canadian Children’s Book Centre is proud to share these titles with you. For a list of the honour books for each award, please click here.

MARILYN BAILLIE PICTURE BOOK AWARD ($20,000)
Sponsored by A. Charles Baillie Buxton”

Mattland
Written by Hazel Hutchins (Canmore, AB)
and Gail Herbert (Cambridge, ON)
Illustrated by Dušan Petričić (Toronto, ON)
Annick Press
for ages 4-7

“Hazel Hutchins and Gail Herbert’s crisp language combine with Dušan Petričić’s superb illustrations to create a compelling story of the transformative power of the imagination… Words and pictures unfold, build, and resolve a layered tale with marvelous subtlety and an authentic voice.”

The Marilyn Baillie Picture Book Award honours excellence in the illustrated picture book format, for children aged 3 to 8. Charles Baillie, retired Chairman and CEO of TD Bank Financial Group, is delighted to give the prize in his wife Marilyn’s name. As an award-winning children’s book author and an early learning specialist, Marilyn is involved in and passionate about children’s literature. Starting in 2009, the winning book receives $20,000

NORMA FLECK AWARD FOR CANADIAN CHILDREN’S NON-FICTION ($10,000)
Sponsored by the Fleck Family Foundation

The Bite of the Mango
Written by Mariatu Kamara (Pickering, ON)
with Susan McClelland (Toronto, ON)
Annick Press
for ages 14 and up

“A powerful and touching true story of a young girl who survives Sierra Leone’s brutal civil war… Despite the horrific events portrayed, this story is ultimately one of renewal and hope… Mariatu Kamara’s spirit is an example of courage and determination that can never be forgotten.”

The Norma Fleck Award for Canadian Children’s Non-Fiction was established by the Fleck Family Foundation in 1999 to recognize Canada’s exceptional non-fiction books for young people. The award honours Norma Fleck (1906-1998), who inspired a deep love of reading in her children and grandchildren. Dr. James Fleck, who initiated the award, is the son of Norma Fleck. The winning book receives $10,000.

GEOFFREY BILSON AWARD FOR HISTORICAL FICTION FOR YOUNG PEOPLE ($5,000)
Sponsored by the Canadian Children’s Book Centre’s Bilson Endowment Fund

The Landing
Written by John Ibbitson (Ottawa, ON)
Kids Can Press
for ages 12 and up

“Intriguing, hopeful and sometimes surprising, this exquisitely written novel clearly illustrates the impact of the Great Depression… Possibly one of the most beautifully written books we’ve seen this year.”

The Geoffrey Bilson Award was established in 1988 in memory of the respected historian and children’s author, Geoffrey Bilson. The $5,000 prize is awarded annually to the Canadian author of an outstanding work of historical fiction for young people. In 2005, the Bilson Endowment Fund was created to support this award. If you wish to contribute to this fund, please contact the CCBC.

To learn more about the Canadian Children’s Book Centre LINK HERE

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