Sources: Karin Westman, 785-532-2190, westmank@k-state.edu;
and Adriane Metcalf, ametcalf@k-state.edu

Thursday, Dec. 2, 2010

READ ALL ABOUT IT: VOTE FOR BEST PICTURE BOOK AT MOCK CALDECOTT

MANHATTAN -- What's the best picture book of 2010? Manhattan area residents can help decide at Mock Caldecott 2010. The event will be 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5, at the Manhattan Public Library, 629 Poyntz Ave.

Sponsored by K-State's Children's and Adolescent Literature Community, the K-State English department's program in children's literature and the Manhattan Public Library, the Mock Caldecott includes a discussion of the most distinguished picture books of 2010, followed by a vote to determine this year's winner.

The American Library Association awards the Caldecott Medal to the most distinguished American picture book for children, as well as recognizing the runners-up. The medal is named for Randolph Caldecott, a 19th-century English illustrator.

"Now in its third year, our Mock Caldecott continues to bring students and community members together to enjoy the best picture books published in the past year, so we can determine our own award-winning book and honor books," said Karin Westman, head of K-State's department of English.

"This year's contenders cover a wide range of subjects and artistic styles. It's going to be a difficult, but exciting, selection process," Westman said. "Some titles in the lead so far include 'Big Red Lollipop,' written by Rukhsana Khan and illustrated by Sophie Blackall; 'Moon Bear' by Brenda Guiberson and illustrated by Ed Young; and 'Black Jack: The Ballad of Jack Johnson' by Charles R. Smith Jr. and illustrated by Shane W. Evans."

Books nominated for the Caldecott Medal will be available for reading from 1-2 p.m. A brief presentation on the Caldecott Medal, discussion of new picture books in 2010, and selection of the Manhattan area's choice for this year's Caldecott will follow from 2-4 p.m.

"The Mock Caldecott at the Manhattan Public Library is an excellent opportunity for students to discuss children's books of the past year with other students, K-State faculty and the Manhattan community," said Adriane Metcalf, graduate student in English, Merriam, and co-president of the Children's and Adolescent Literature Community. "I enjoy the chance to read the books, and then discuss the innovations in illustrations with others."

"Thousands of picture books are published each year. How can you discover which are the best? Come to the Mock Caldecott," said Philip Nel, professor of English and director of K-State's program in children's literature. "A picture book is a portable art gallery -- and much less expensive to visit. I hope people will stop by this Sunday at the Manhattan Public Library."