Children’s book award shortlist
May 16th, 2024
Coquitlam-based author, Wanda John-Kehewin is shortlisted for the 2024 Ruth and Sylvia Schwartz Children’s Book Awards for her book, Visions of the Crow, Dreams, Vol. 1 (HighWater Press $23.95). Organized by the Ontario Arts Council and the Ontario Arts Foundation, the winning books will be announced at an event in June.
In this graphic tale, Damon Quinn faces the tumult of his senior year while shouldering the burden of his mother’s alcoholism and contending with school bullies led by Marcus. Damon’s life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters a mysterious crow that seems to be watching over him. A waking dream thrusts Damon into a journey of self-discovery, prompting him to confront unanswered questions about his absent father, his family’s origins, and his own identity.
As Damon delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding his past, he forms new bonds with Journey, a newcomer, and relies on their friendship for support. Together, they navigate through time and space, unraveling the complex interplay between reality and vision. Through Damon’s odyssey, the story beautifully explores the intersections of everyday struggles with the ethereal realm, offering a poignant portrayal of interconnectedness and hope for the future.
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ABOUT THE AWARD
For over 40 years, the Ruth & Sylvia Schwartz Children’s Book Awards have recognized artistic excellence in Canadian children’s literature. The Ruth Schwartz Children’s Book Awards were established in 1976 by Sylvia Schwartz to honour the memory of her sister, Ruth, a prominent bookseller in Toronto. In 2004, their family renamed the awards to honour both sisters.
Two awards are presented annually, one for picture books and the other for young adult/middle readers, each worth $6000. The winners are nominated by a three-person awards committee comprised of a bookseller, a librarian and a children’s book reviewer. The winners are selected by juries of young readers from an Ontario public school.
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