Feature

Celebrating Literacy and Learning Through Reading

Last Call to Enter the 2018 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards


(Traverse City, MI - Aug. 16, 2018)  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 twelth annual contest is just a few days away, on August 21st. 

From board books aimed at blooming curiosity, to mature-themed books helping teens grapple with life, the contest recognizes excellence in categories for children of every age. The 2017 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. 
 
"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 2018 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 results will be announced on October 3rd, and medalists will be celebrated at an award ceremony following the Traverse City Children’s Book Festival in Traverse City, Michigan on November 10th. 



Learn more about the Moonbeam Awards at http://www.MoonbeamAwards.com.

Contact Awards Director Jim Barnes at 1-800-644-0133 x 1011 or jimb (at) bookpublishing.com.