FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: DALLAS(January 23, 2012) – The American Library Association (ALA) today announced the top books, video and audiobooks for children and young adults – including the Caldecott, Coretta Scott King, Newbery and Printz awards – at its Midwinter Meeting in Dallas. Canadian author Paul Yee was honoured for his latest book, Money Boy (published by Groundwood Books), which was selected as an honour book for the Stonewall Book Award – Mike Morgan & Larry Romans Children’s & Young Adult Literature Award. This award is given annually to English-language children’s and young adult books of exceptional merit relating to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender experience. Canadian-born author/illustrator Jon Klassen‘s book, I Want My Hat Back (published by Candlewick Press,) was named a honour books for the Theodor Seuss Geisel Award for the most distinguished beginning reader book.

Recognized worldwide for the high quality they represent, ALA awards guide parents, educators, librarians and others in selecting the best materials for youth. Selected by judging committees of librarians and other children’s experts, the awards encourage original and creative work. For a complete list of winner and for more information on the ALA youth media awards and notables, please visit the ALA website at www.ala.org.