Source: SCBWI
Los Angeles–Together with The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), beloved author Jane Yolen has created a new grant to honor an oft-overlooked group: Midlist authors. These are authors who have consistently sold work but are not bestsellers.
According to Jane, “In these difficult book times, well-reviewed and honored authors often find themselves stalled in their writing lives and find they are having trouble selling new work. In our attention to up-and-coming authors, we, the reading public, often ignore these mid-list writers who struggle to remain true to their personal vision and craft. This grant is to say: SCBWI honors you, we recognize you, we are paying attention to your work.”
The first grant was awarded at the SCBWI 13th Annual Conference in New York City to Mary Whittington, author of Carmina Come Dance (Atheneum), The Patchwork Lady (Harcourt Brace Jovanovich), Troll Games (Atheneum), and Winter’s Child (Atheneum).
This year’s honor recipients were Ann Whitford Paul, poet and author of numerous picture books, including Little Monkey Says Goodnight (Melanie Kroupa Books/FSG) and Barbara Diamond Goldin, author of historical fiction and picture books, including The Girl Who Lived with the Bears (Gulliver/Harcourt Brace).
The grant is awarded by nomination only, and the winners and honorees are chosen by Jane Yolen herself. Nominations for the 2013 Jane Yolen Mid-List Author Grant will begin June 1, 2012; and close Nov. 1, 2012. Winners will be announced at the Winter Conference in New York City and featured on the SCBWI website, in The Bulletin, and on the SCBWI blog. Only current SCBWI members are eligible. Any SCBWI member can nominate another member who they believe deserves the award.
About Jane Yolen
Jane is one of the world’s most successful children’s book writers, with over 300 books, numerous awards, six honorary degrees and fans across the globe. She currently sits on the board of Advisors of SCBWI.
According to SCBWI Executive Director Lin Oliver, “Jane Yolen sets the highest standard for our industry, not only in the meaningful body of work she has created, but also in her support of fellow authors and artists. The creation of this grant is a fitting tribute to one of our most talented writers and cherished friends.”
About SCBWI
Founded in 1971, by authors Stephen Mooser (President) and Lin Oliver (Executive Director), with over 20,000 members worldwide, The Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators (SCBWI) is one of the world’s largest writers’ and illustrators’ organizations.
The SCBWI is a 501(c)(3) non-profit with a mission to foster public appreciation of children’s books and to support the vibrant community of people who create and promote them: writers, illustrators, editors, publishers, agents, librarians, educators, booksellers and others involved with literature for young people.
Oh, wow! This is very cool. Hooray for Jane and for the honored authors. I think it's a fantastic idea.
Just heard this great news via Finding Wonderland. This is yet another wonderful way that established (and banking!!) writers are helping to pay it forward. Our son Liam is a Jane Yolen fanatic–I have been reading the Spanish version of "How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight?" since he was born. He'll be thrilled to learn that she's helping out grown-ups in mami's field, too.
Congratulations to those chosen for this. And yes…I know I need to pay more attention to the mid lists. Thank you for the reminder and way to go SCBWI and Jane Yolen!
Aquafortis, it's absolutely terrific. And now is definitely the time.
Ashley, it's definitely a great example of just that. Rolling out the support and encouragement. So fun that Liam is a Jane fan. And dinosaurs, too? You're raising him right! 😉
Yes, Deb! So many gems on the midlist. Let's all show them our love.