This isn't actually me in the photo, but it's how I feel after learning that I've been nominated in, not one, but two categories of the Ontario Library Association's fabulous Forest of Reading Awards.There are all sorts of literary awards for children's books, but possibly the most satisfying for a writer are the readers' choice awards -- the ones where the winners are actually chosen by your real audience -- young readers -- as opposed to adults who decree which books are worthy and important for kids.
The Ontario Library Association's Forest of Reading Awards give young readers in Ontario the chance to vote for their favourite books from a shortlist of ten titles. And it's always fascinating, surprising (and, for a writer, eye-opening) to see which book wins.
This year I've been fortunate to be nominated in two categories. First, Starclimber has been nominated for the Red Maple Award (decided on by grade 7-8 students across Ontario.) This is the fifth time I've been nominated (Airborn and Skybreaker won in 2005 and 2006 respectively).
As well, my picture book The King's Taster, illustrated by the wonderful team of Steve Fancher and Lou Johnson, has been nominated for the Blue Spruce Award (chosen by children from kindergarten to Grade Two).
Kids will be reading all through the fall and into the spring, voting at the end of April, with the winners announced in May.
Best of luck with your nominations and a HUGE thank you for your books that have recently been introduced to my 9 yr old. He is enjoying your triology of Silverwing, Darkwing, etc...and has NEVER been so interested in reading! As a parent, I'm sure you can pride yourself with this.
ReplyDeleteI will continue to follow some of your upcoming events in hopes that my son can hopefully meet you.
Our sincere gratitude for changing the life of my little "Shade"...one story at a time!
Tracey S
Guelph, Ontario
Congrats!!! You ROCK Kenneth Oppel!!!!
ReplyDeleteOMG!!! I thought that was you in the picture at first. Congradaulations, Mr. Oppel. You really deserve it with your amazing writing.
ReplyDeleteYou have been a great influence to get me to start writting, and i was wondering, how did you get started? because i would love if i could get the book i am writting published
ReplyDeleteOkay let me tell you you are the best author... I love your books they are amazing i love Airborn, Skybreaker, and Starclimber well i really want you to write another book after starclimber!! They are the best. The books were so INTENSE!! I got really excited. I pretended that i was in the book it was really cool well yea that was my opinion just wanted to tell you I LOVE YOUR BOOKS!!!!!! :) BEST AUTHOR EVER..!!!AND one more thing thank you for influencing me to keep reading and feeling to be in the book it makes books so cool!
ReplyDeleteMinnesota,Willmar
OK I amso happy that i get to post a coment on you thingy so all i wanted to say was i just put a post coment on JUNE25,2010 I am from Minnesota , Willmar the one who said thank you for something something well i love your books a ton and i hope i get to meet you or something well i forgot to say that well YOU ROCk Kenneth Oppel!! YEA!!
ReplyDeleteAlexa,M
LOVE THE BOOKS MAN YOU ARE SWEEET AUTHOR!!!
ReplyDeleteI just finished reading Airborn yesterday, and it was so AWESOME!!
ReplyDeleteI found interest in the book when Adam Young made an album with music for it!!
Try looking up "port blue the airship"!!
Seriously, some of the songs made me cry.
Anyway, I can't wait to read the rest of the series!!
YOU ROCK!
oh is realy awsome!
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