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"Christmas Tree Farm" written by Ann Purmell, illustrated by Jill Weber and published by Holiday House has won the OFBF Award for Children’s Literature. The award is given annually to the author of a book considered to be a distinguished contribution to American literature for children. The award is being announced to coincide with National Agriculture Week March 18 through 24, which celebrates farming’s contributions to society. This is the 18^th year for the award.

Most shoppers don't know that a family has worked all year long planting, pruning, measuring and tagging trees. "Christmas Tree Farm" shows the entire process from seedling to decorated tree as a warm-spirited family carries on a holiday tradition, according to the Holiday House Web site.

Purmell is a graduate of Eastern Michigan University with a degree in nursing. According to her Web site, she decided she wanted to be an elementary school teacher and returned to college at age 42. However, when she was diagnosed with the lung disease sarcoidosis, she turned to writing.

The books cost $10 plus shipping. They may be purchased through county Farm Bureau offices.

OFBF Education Specialist Judy Roush said this year’s winner would provide a nice tie-in opportunity to promote Ohio-grown Christmas trees. According to the 2002 U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Census, Ohio is 8^th in the nation in the number of Christmas tree farms and 7^th in the total number of acres devoted to Christmas trees. Ohio Farm Bureau members who grow and sell Christmas trees can be found in the Buying Local Directory at OurOhio.org.