Sorry for the wacky image placements, folks. I can’t seem to get them lined up neatly.

2010 has already been a banner year for Austin area children’s authors. What are the odds of so many accolades landing in one metropolitan area? For those of us in this blessed writing community, it doesn’t matter. We’re just all busting with pride.

Liz Garton Scanlon’s beautiful picture book, All the World, illustrated by Marla Frazee, received a Caldecott Honor last month. Yesterday, came word that A Cybil award has also been added to the kudos. If you haven’t read this poetic slice of sweetness, you’re really missing out.

Chris Barton’s nonfiction picture book, The Day-Glo Brothers: The True Story of Bob and Joe Switzer’s Bright Ideas and brand-New Colors, was awarded the 2010 Sibert Honor as well as a newly announced Cybil. This is a fabulous example of how a big story can be successfully condensed into an entertaining and enlightening story for young readers.

Jacqueline Kelly’s novel, The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate was showered with praise as a 2010 Newbery Honor book. This debut historical fiction is full of charm and vivid language. I had the pleasure of reviewing the book last year. I’ve since recommended it heartily.

More Austin authors news:
Varian Johnson’s third book, Saving Maddie, is set to release in March. It’s gaining a lot of attention, including a great Kirkus review already.

April Lurie’s fourth book, The Less Dead is on book shelves now and generating quite a buzz in the review world. She will be joining Varian Johnson for a dual book release party March 27th at 2:00pm at Book People.

Jo Whittemore awaits the March release of her fourth book, Front Page Face-Off. Stay tuned for information about her upcoming book release party.

Cynthia Leitich Smith’s book, Eternal, is now available in paperback. Wahoo!

More to follow…