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Sugarbush Spring by Marsha Wilson Chall and illustrated by Jim Daly is the 2002 Outstanding Children’s Literature Award winner.

The book was chosen from a field of 10 by a selection committee comprised of members of the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation board of trustees. The announcement comes in time for National Agriculture Week, March 17 to 23 when many county Farm Bureaus plan to present the book to libraries and schools.

Chall’s timeless story and Daly’s glowing paintings invite children to share in the pleasure of making maple syrup, said Judy Roush, promotion and education specialist.

"Together the author and artist created a superior book," Roush said. "The award enables us to highlight a good book about agriculture for children, and in turn, our members can share these books with their local communities."

This year, the criteria was changed slightly to include consideration of the art in the books. Roush said the art is an important part of the book and makes it more appealing to children. Criteria for the award stipulates the book must have an agricultural theme, have been published during the preceding five-year period and other factors. Illustrations were judged on interpretation of the theme, creativity, design, appropriateness for children and appropriateness of style.

The author hails from Minnesota and also has written Up North at the Cabin and Rupa Raises in the Sun. Chall will be honored at OFBF’s 2002 annual meeting. Daly is a well-known painter of children. His paintings are represented in many private and corporate collections and have been published as limited-edition prints for more than 15 years. The book was published in 2000 by Lothrop, Lee and Shepard Books.

The hardcover book is available from OFBF for $10; suggested retail price is $15.95. Contact your county Farm Bureau office to order the book.

The award originated in 1989, and 13 books have been recognized for their agricultural theme and accuracy in portraying agriculture. Previous winning books are available to order from county Farm Bureau offices. For more information contact Karen Lotus at 614-249-2408 or visit the OFBF Web site, www.ofbf.org and click on Teacher Resources. The books are listed under the "Other Resources" section.