Pardon me while I brag just a wee bit. Earlier this week, our very own title, The Scallop Christmas, was officially named the 2009 Lupine Award Honor Book. The award is given annually by the Maine Library Association to books of outstanding merit and to recognize an outstanding contribution to children's literature of
Maine. It is granted to encourage the reading, writing and
appreciation of children's books, and to foster pride in the state of
Maine. Not bad, huh?
Congratulations and "great job" to Jane Freeberg, who wrote the heartwarming story, and to Astrid Sheckels, whose beautiful illustrations brought Marcie's tale to life. This was the first book for both Jane and Astrid, so I guess you could say they came out swinging! The book, based loosely on a true story, tells the story of Marcie, a young girl growing up in a New England coastal village. When an unexpected bounty of scallops fills the bay, Marcie and her family spend a week of hard work digging for scallops from her father's boat. It brings her unexpected adventure and a lesson in love that she will never forget.
This year's award was presented at the 21st annual Reading Round-Up conference in Augusta earlier this week. Kelley McDaniel, chair of the Lupine Award Committee, thanked the author and illustrator for "reminding us that where we come from and what we learn from our families are among the most important things."
Jane, who lives on Georgetown Island, said, "I'm delighted to have this wonderful story that I've cherished for so many years be recognized as something special."
Meanwhile, Astrid, who lives in western Massachusetts, told the gathering, "I am very grateful and honored, and even a bit overwhelmed, to be receiving this award for my first book. It was a great surprise and I am very pleased."
Also at the show, the wonderful Chris Van Dusen was presented with The Lupine Award for his latest title, The Circus Ship.
We couldn't be happier for Jane and Astrid (or Islandport, for that matter).
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