1997

Tedd Arnold's Signmaker's Assistant is a humorous and engaging picture book that tells the story of a young boy who learns an important lesson about responsibility and the power of words. Through playful illustrations and a clever narrative, Arnold captures the imagination of young readers while imparting a valuable message.

Silver Packages: An Appalachian Christmas Story is a heartwarming children's book written by Cynthia Rylant and illustrated by Chris K. Soentpiet. The book tells the story of a train that delivers gifts to the children of Appalachia every Christmas. The tale is a touching reminder of the power of generosity and the joy of giving, making it a perfect read for the holiday season.

Paul O. Zelinsky's Rapunzel is a breathtaking retelling of the classic fairy tale, reframing the story through the lens of personal choices and their consequences. Coupled with Zelinsky's opulent oil-paint illustrations, the narrative transforms a familiar tale into a profound exploration of love, sacrifice, and autonomy.