California Reading Association’s
2023 EUREKA! Nonfiction Children’s Book Awards
By Dr. Joan Fingon, Robin Radlauer-Cramer, Tawnya Shaw, and
Dr. Virginia Loh-Hagan
The EUREKA! Nonfiction Children’s Book Awards Committee was founded in 2000 by Dr. Helen Foster James. The committee’s mission is to celebrate excellence in nonfiction children’s books. Nonfiction includes informational texts, memoirs, poetry, and folktales.
The 2023 committee members were Dr. Joan Fingon, Robin Radlauer-Cramer, and Tawnya Shaw with Dr. Virginia Loh-Hagan as the Chair/Administrator. As always, it was difficult to narrow down our many high-quality submissions to 10 GOLD winners and 40 HONOR/SILVER winners.
The committee is very proud of this year’s robust list. It offers titles that represent a diverse group of author voices and a wide range of topics and genres. Check out past EUREKA! Award recipients under “Awards” on http://www.californiareading.org. We hope that you enjoy reading these books as much as we did!
2023 EUREKA! GOLD AWARDS:
Born Reading: 20 Stories of Women Reading Their Way Into History by Kathleen Krull and Virginia Loh-Hagan and illustrated by Aura Lewis (Simon & Schuster, 2023) (P, I, YA) - Learn about 20+ extraordinary women through short-form biographic profiles that share how their reading habits motivated them to change the world. The women in this collection include those who have influenced the world in STEM, music, politics, and more. In addition to amplifying powerful women, this book is an homage to the power of reading.
Boundless: An Extraordinary True Story about Overcoming Life’s Challenges and Striving for Greatness by Chaunté Lowe (Scholastic Focus, 2023) (P, I) - Lowe writes the story of her own personal journey. From surviving an impoverished childhood to becoming a world champion high jumper, Lowe’s life is truly inspiring. This is a nonfiction narrative about hard work, survival, and dreams.
Champion Chompers, Super Stinkers and other Poems by Extraordinary Animals by Linda Ashman and illustrated by Aparna Varma (Kids Can Press, 2023) (P) – What is the biggest animal in the world? Which animal is the best engineer? Learn about the top animals via playful poems and fun facts. Each persona poem offers a hint and readers are encouraged to figure out which animals are the best in some way.
Dig, Dance, Dive: How Birds Move to Survive by Etta Kaner and illustrated by June Steube (Owlkids, 2022) (P) – This book presents fun facts about 20 birds and their adaptations for survival. Kaner includes birds from all around the world and describes their various unexpected behaviors. Dig in and dive into the world of birds!
Eclipse by Andy Rash (Scholastic Press, 2023) (P, I) - Rash writes and illustrates a story about a father and his son sharing the experience of observing a total solar eclipse. This story is inspired by Rash’s own trip with his son in 2017 when they camped out and watched the eclipse together.
Elephants Remember: A True Story by Jennifer O’Connell (Tilbury House, 2022) (P) - O’Connell recounts the true story of Lawrence Anthony, a South African conservationist, who saved a traumatized matriarch of a wild elephant herd at his animal reserve in South Africa. After Anthony’s death, the elephant herd returned to Anthony’s home on the same day at the same time for the next two years in order to mourn him, as elephants remember.
Evelyn Hooker and the Fairy Project by Gayle E. Pitman and illustrated by Sarah Green (American Psychological Association, 2021) (I, YA) - This biography sheds light on unsung hero, Evelyn Hooker. Hooker’s groundbreaking research debunked the notion that homosexuality was a mental illness and was crucial in the Psychiatric Association’s 1973 decision to remove it from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Hooker has greatly impacted the LGBTQ+ rights movement.
Finding Family: The Duckling Raised by Loons by Laura Purdie Salas and illustrated by Alexandria Neonakis (Lerner Publishing, 2023) (P) - This is the heartwarming tale of unexpected animal cooperation: two loons raising an orphaned mallard duckling. These two species do not live similar lives, posing a shock to loon researchers in 2019 when they discovered the loon parents caring for the mallard duckling on a lake in Wisconsin. Readers will follow along as the duckling grows and displays a mix of both loon and mallard behaviors.
Latin Americans in History: 15 Inspiring Latinas and Latinos You Should Know by Monica Olivera (Rockridge Press, 2023) (P, I) – Olivera presents stories of various influential Latino/a/x Americans from a plethora of backgrounds and careers. Profiles include Simon Bolivar, Dolores Huerta, Cecilia Tait, and more. Each biography includes activity ideas and suggestions for further reading.
2023 Eureka! SILVER/HONOR AWARDS:
A Flower is a Friend by Frieda Wishinsky and illustrated by Karen Patkau (Pajama Press, 2023) (P) – Flowers are more than just pretty. They actually play an important role in the ecosystem of a garden. This book delves into the symbiotic relationships a flower has with the creatures around it. For example, did you know that flowers provide pollen dust, shade, food, and more.
African Icons: Ten People Who Shaped History by Tracey Baptiste and illustrated by Hillary D. Wilson (Workman Publishing, 2021) (P, I) - Learn about ten African icons whose vision helped to build nations and shape the course of history for the African continent and beyond. From kings and queens to inventors and scholars, these great minds changed the world. The book includes biographies, maps, graphics, and more.
Akim Aliu: Dreamer by Akim Aliu with Greg Anderson Elysée and illustrated by Marcus Williams and Karen De la Vega (Scholastic, 2023) (P, I) - This graphic memoir tells the story of Akim Aliu, a Nigeria-born Canadian-Ukrainian former professional ice hockey player. Aliu recounts his experience growing up as the only black child in his Ukrainian community. He also shares how he experienced systemic racism and racial violence. Despite his challenges, he never stopped dreaming.
Am I Made of Stardust? by Dr. Maggie Aderin-Pocock and illustrated by Chelen Ecija (Kane Miller, 2022) (P, I) – What would happen if I fall into a black hole? How long does it take to fly to a star? Aderin-Pocock addresses kids' questions about space and the universe. Silly questions are encouraged.
Any Body: A Comic Compendium of Important Facts and Feelings about Our Bodies by Katharina von der Gathen and illustrated by Anke Kuhl (Gecko Press,
2023) (I) – Everyone has questions about our bodies. This is a factual read about the common feelings we have being uncomfortable in our own skin. It is an encyclopedia of facts about skin, hair, and body functions, along with questions commonly asked during puberty regarding identity, beauty, and confidence. It encourages diversity, positivity, and acceptance of oneself and others.
Astonishing and Extinct Professions: 89 Jobs You Will Never Do by Markus Rottmann and illustrated by Michael Meister (Helvetiq, 2023) (P, I) – Learn about 89 past professions that are now extinct. Jobs emerge and fade away depending on what is needed by society. This book describes jobs like ice harvesters, gladiators, human computers, professional farters, Pony Express riders, coffee detectives, and more. It spans continents and time periods.
At Home with the Prairie Dog: The Story of a Keystone Species by Dorothy Hinshaw Patent and photographs by William Muñoz (Web of Life Children’s
Books, 2023) (P) – The ecosystem depends on keystone species; if these species were removed, the ecosystem would be drastically affected. Prairie dogs are not the most known animal, but as a keystone species, they are essential. They dig burrows, which are used by dozens of other animals. Also, their activity makes the grassy areas around their burrows nourishing for grazing animals. Learn how they provide food and shelter to many.
Bottle Tops: The Art of El Anatsui by Alison Goldberg and illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon (Lee and Low Books, 2022) (P, I) - Learn about El Anatsui, a Ghanaian artist who uses discarded materials to create breath-taking art. As an art student, he learned mainly about European traditions. He became curious about his own culture’s art history. He was inspired by discarded bottle tops, which he used to tell stories via tapestries and sculptures.
Buildings That Breathe: Greening The World’s Cities by Nancy F. Castaldo (Lerner Publishing, 2022) (I, YA) - Architects team up with botanists, urban wildlife ecologists, and other scientists to delay the effects of climate change by creating living spaces that incorporate vertical farms and high-rise forests. Learn about these changing urban landscapes around the world.
Butt or Face? Can You Tell Which End You’re Looking at? by Kari Lavelle (Sourcebooks Explore, 2023) (P) - When looking at a close-up photo of an animal, can you guess if it's the face or the bottom? Find out with this book! Learn facts about animals that use camouflage or other adaptations to hide in their environments.
Copycat: Nature-Inspired Design Around the World by Christy Hale (Lee and Low Books, 2022) (P, I) - Further your understanding of how nature's designs impact the inventions we have today. For example, a cat’s eye inspired the development of safety road reflectors and a lotus leaf inspired the invention of the umbrella. This book includes tanka poetry, photos, and illustrated drawings.
Coretta’s Journey: The Life and Times of Coretta Scott King by Alice Faye Duncan and illustrated by R. Gregory Christie (Astra Books for Young Readers, 2023) (P, I) - Learn the story of Coretta Scott King, who was more than just the wife of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. She was also a classical singer and an activist in her own right. She stood up against violence toward her family in the South. She overcame discrimination as a music student in the North. She also fought hard to preserve and continue the work of her late husband.
Genius Noses: A Curious Animal Compendium by Lena Anlauf and illustrated by Vitali Konstantinov (NorthSouth Books, 2023) (P, I) – Be nosy about animals! Animals use their noses for more than smelling. Noses tell us a lot about animal habits and habitats. This book is filled with fun facts about animals that can smell underwater, animals who use their noses as a snorkel, and more!
Gertie: The Darling Duck of WWII by Shari Swanson and illustrated by Renée Graef (Sleeping Bear Press, 2023) (P) - After the fallout of World War II, people needed a sign of a better future. They wanted hope, and that is what one plucky duck became. One April morning in the year of 1945, a duck found itself on a tall post in the Milwaukee River nesting, preparing to lay her eggs. Local reporters affectionately named this bird Gertie, who was a welcome distraction and a ray of hope.
How to Chat Chicken, Gossip Gorilla, Babble Bee, Gab Gecko, and Talk in 66 Other Animal Languages by Dr. Nick Crumpton and illustrated by Adrienne
Barman (What on Earth Books, 2023) (P) – Every animal-lover knows that animals communicate and talk. The animal kingdom is a noisy world with millions of different languages. Learn what dolphins, toads, chickens, gorillas, and more are saying.
I am the Thirsty Desert by Darcy Pattison and illustrated by Jordan Kim (Mims House, 2021) (P, I) - The desert is an environment which does not receive much rain, but when it does there is an explosion of growth. Learn more about what happens once this dry land experiences rainfall and monsoons. This book will change what you know about dry deserts.
Jerry Changed the Game! How Engineer Jerry Lawson Revolutionized Video Games Forever by Don Tate and illustrated by Cherise Harris (Simon & Schuster, 2023) (P) – Everyone plays video games. But do they know who Jerry Lawson is? Lawson, an African American engineer, is a video game revolutionary. He built a new type of video game console that allowed players to switch out cartridges. This made games less expensive, as players no longer had to buy new consoles in order to play a new game. Lawson also founded the nation’s first African American-owned video game company.
Jovita Wore Pants: The Story of a Mexican Freedom Fighter by Aida Salazar and illustrated by Molly Mendoza (Scholastic Press, 2023) (P) – This is a true story about Jovita Valdovinos, a Mexican revolutionary who disguised herself as a man in order to fight for her rights. As a young girl, she did not like wearing big skirts and preferred pants, which would allow her to climb trees and ride horses. Learn more about this Mexican heroine.
Justice Ketanji: The Story of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson by Denise Lewis Patrick and illustrated by Kim Holt (Orchard Books, 2023) (P) - Follow the life of the first Black woman to be confirmed to the United States Supreme Court. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson grew up in Florida, joined her high school debate team, studied at Harvard, and in 2022, was sworn into the Supreme Court. Learn more about her life in this book.
Lion on the Inside: How One Girl Changed Basketball by Bilqis Abdul-Qaadir with Judith Henderson and illustrated by Katherine Ahmed (Kids Can Press, 2023) (P) – Abdul-Qaadir, a Muslim American, had a flourishing basketball career, becoming the first woman to play in a hijab in the NCAA despite rules prohibiting her from doing so. This led her to walk away from the profession and become an activist. Eventually, the ban on hijabs was overturned. Readers will be inspired by her activism.
Love Is Loud: How Diane Nash Led the Civil Rights Movement by Sandra Neil Wallace and illustrated by Bryan Collier (Simon & Schuster, 2023) (P) - Diane Nash is an African American female civil rights leader who fought back against segregation by leading the Nashville Movement which included sit-ins at lunch counters, marches to the courthouse, etc. She also took on the Freedom Rides to integrate bus travel. It is important to include Nash’s contributions to the Civil Rights Movement.
Maps For Penguins and Other Traveling Animals by Tracey Turner and illustrated by Hui Skipp (Kane Miller, 2022) (P) - This picture book describes various animals and their migration paths. It includes interesting facts about animals, climate, habitats, and more. It also offers a wonderful introduction to maps and geography.
Meet the Megafauna!: Get to Know 20 of the Largest Animals to Ever Roam the Earth by Gabrielle Balkan and illustrated by Quang and Lien (Workman Publishing, 2023) (P, I) - Learn about 20 megafauna in this interactive picture book with mega-pages (i.e., large-format with gatefolds, pages that can be opened out). Megafauna are enormous animals that used to roam the earth but are now mostly extinct. Some examples are giant armored armadillos, giant sloths, and more.
Nature School: Lessons and Activities to Inspire Children’s Love for Everything Wild by Lauren Giordano, Stephanie Hathaway, and Laura Stroup (The Quarto Group, 2023) (P, I) – Young readers love learning about nature. This book tackles various aspects of the natural world including plants, animals, lifecycles, ecosystems, biomes, etc. In addition, it features over 30 hands-on activities and experiments.
O Is for Ossicone: A Surprising Animal Alphabet by Hannah Eliot and illustrated by Sarah Papworth (Simon & Schuster, 2023) (P) - This alphabet board book teaches young readers interesting facts about animals and their body parts, along with introducing vocabulary words such as ossicone, which are the hornlike parts of a giraffe’s head.
On the Tip of a Wave: How Ai Weiwei’s Art is Changing the Tide by Joanna Ho and illustrated by Cátia Chien (Scholastic, 2023) (P) – Ai Weiwei is a Chinese contemporary artist and activist. He advocated for democracy and human rights which is evident in his sculptures, photographs, and public works. Ho spotlights his “Life Jackets” exhibit in which Weiwei was inspired by Serbian refugees’ discarded life jackets on the shores of Lesbos. This book will teach readers about the refugee experience and the power of art.
Paul Bunyan: The Invention of an American Legend by Marlena Myles and Noah Van Sciver and illustrated by Noah Van Sciver (Astra Books for Young Readers, 2023) (P) – This is a different take on the Paul Bunyan story. It’s the story about the story. Learn about how the tale of Paul Bunyan, the legendary lumberjack, was born as a corporate marketing ploy for the timber industry and how this narrative has negatively impacted Native Americans. This book looks into the history of the lore and reveals how the legend has served to hide the seizure of lands from native communities.
Polar: Wildlife at the Ends of the Earth by Lindsey E. Carmichael and illustrated by Byron Eggenschwiler (Kids can Press, 2023) (P, I) - While the Arctic and Antarctica are at opposite ends of the earth, the creatures that inhabit it have adapted to the conditions in similar ways. Discover the different creatures that reside in both areas and learn about migration, hibernation, and more! This book ends with a look at how climate change has impacted these polar regions.
Sunshine: How One Camp Taught Me About Life, Death, and Hope by Jarrett J. Krosoczka (Scholastic, 2023) (I, YA) – In this autobiographic graphic novel, Krosoczka describes his time as a counselor at Camp Sunshine, a camp for sick children and their families. A sequel to Hey, Kiddo, this book is about the power of hope and resilience. It’s also about the importance of building safe spaces.
Tenacious: Fifteen Adventures Alongside Disabled Athletes by Patty Cisneros Prevo and illustrated by Dion MBD (Lee & Low Books, 2023) (P, I) - Get to know the extraordinary achievements of fifteen athletes who use adaptive equipment to achieve their athletic goals. These athletes have won gold medals and set world records. Some examples are Will Groux and Dr. Andrea Woodson-Smith. Readers will learn about their struggles and triumphs. They will also be introduced to the world of adaptive sports. Prevo, herself, is a two-time Gold medal Paralympian.
The Big Book of Mysteries: Uncover the Truth about over 100 Real-Life Mysteries by Tom Adams and illustrated by Yas Imamura (Nosy Crow, 2023) (P, I) – This collection of mysteries provides artwork, case studies, and explanations for hundreds of mysteries and urban legends such as the Loch Ness monster, Bigfoot, the Bermuda Triangle, and more! This book will make readers even more curious.
The Girl Who Heard the Music: How One Pianist and 85,000 Bottles and Cans Brought New Hope to an Island by Marni Fogelson and illustrated by Marta
Álvarez Miguéns and Mahani Teave (Sourcebooks Explore, 2023) (P) - Mahani Teave is an award-winning pianist and environmental activist from Easter Island, Chile. She is helping her home island, Rapa Nui, become more sustainable. Utilizing her passion and skill for music, she helped tackle the island's problem with ocean trash by creating a music school constructed of recycled trash. A great addition to music, STEM, and sustainability lessons.
The Glorious Forest That Fire Built by Ginny Neil (Amicus Publishing, 2023) (P) - Forest fires can be dangerous. But they are also crucial to the overall health of forests. Seeds sprout and roots grow beneath the ashes. This book is a lifecycle book, showing how life springs from death. It is told in rhyme and from the point of view of the forest. The back matter offers a timeline of forest succession.
The Queen of Chess: How Judit Polgár Changed the Game by Laurie Wallmark and illustrated by Stevie Lewis (Little Bee Books, 2023) (P) – Wallmark recounts the Judit Polgar’s journey to become the world’s youngest chess grandmaster at age 15. Polgar was a child prodigy and chess champion. She possessed passion and focus but also enjoyed swimming, cracking jokes, and playing with her sisters.
The Raven Mother by Hetxw’ms Gyetxw (Brett D. Huson) and illustrated by Natasha Donovan (Portage & Main Press, 2022) (P, I) - This book will transport readers to northwestern British Columbia to learn about the traditions of the Gitxsan, an indigenous people in Canada. Readers will learn why ravens play a crucial role in their ecosystems. This is the sixth book in Hetxw’ms Gyetxw’s Mothers of Xsan series.
The Secret Science of Sports: The Math, Physics, and Mechanical Engineering Behind Every Grand Slam, Triple Axel, and Penalty Kick by Jennifer Swanson (Black Dog & Leventhal, 2021) (P, I) – There are so many STEM concepts in sports. For example, throwing a ball utilizes Newton’s Law of Motion. Math is needed to calculate a player’s stats. Biology is tied to performance. And, helmets are designed with the latest engineering and technology. This book breaks down and explains the STEM behind sports which includes forces of motion, gravity, algebra, neuroscience, and more.
The Women Who Built Hollywood: 12 Trailblazers in Front of and Behind the Camera by Susan Goldman Rubin (Astra Books for Young Readers, 2023) (I,YA) - Learn about the female pioneers of Old Hollywood who had to fight against racism and sexism for their place in the industry. Rubin features actors, stunt women, directors, costume designers, and more. Some examples of profiles include Anna May Wong, Mary Pickford, and Hattie McDaniel. Representation matters and these women helped pave the way.
Vámonos: Mexican Folk Art Transport in English and Spanish by Cynthia Weill (Lee & Low Books, 2022) (P) – The spotlight of this picture book is the handmade folk-art pieces by local artisans in Oaxaca, Mexico. Young readers will learn about various modes of transportation such as a bike, bus, boat, etc. They will be exposed to Spanish words and Mexican folk art. This book is part of Weill’s series, “First Concepts in Mexican Folk Arts.”
What Are You Feeling?: A Picture Book of Your Emotions by The School of Life and illustrated by Daniel Gray-Barnett (The School of Life, 2023) (P) – Expressing feelings can be hard. This book tackles feelings directly. Readers will discover their emotions and be encouraged to articulate how they feel. This book features 20 different emotions such as sensitivity, pride, mischief, and more. It also addresses self-awareness and social-emotional learning.
Women in Engineering by Mary Wissinger and illustrated by Danielle Pioli (Science Naturally!, 2022) (P) - Readers are introduced to the engineering field by following the point of view of a girl asking questions, modeling a scientifically accurate conversation. This book is aimed toward girls, to motivate them to learn more about this discipline. Learn about how an engineer thinks and about female engineers who have improved and connected the world.
2023 EUREKA! SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS:
The committee also announced four special recognitions. These are books that were collectively not selected for the final list but that the individual committee member loved and wanted to be on the list.
Dr. Joan Fingon chose Sugar Pie Lullaby: The Soul of Motown in a Song of Love by Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by Sawyer Cloud (Sourcebooks Explore, 2023) (P). This bedtime book is also a lullaby and provides background information about Motown legends. Readers can follow and sing along as a caring adult and child share their love through music.
Robin Radlauer-Cramer chose Her Eyes on the Stars: Maria Mitchell, Astronomer by Laurie Wallmark and illustrated by Liz Wong (Creston Books, 2023) (P, I). Maria Mitchell is known as the “lady astronomer.” She was the first woman to get any kind of government job when she was hired by the U.S. Naval Observatory. She also became the first female astronomy professor in the world. She has inspired many young women to reach for the stars.
Tawnya Shaw chose Young, Gifted, & Black Too: Meet 52 More Black Icons from Past and Present by Jamia Wilson and illustrated by Andrea Pippins (Wide Eyed Editions, 2023) (P, I). This book is about 52 examples of Black excellence from all over the world and from various centuries. It includes the stories of Amanda Gorman, Naomi Osaka, Jackie Robinson, Octavia Butler, and more.
Dr. Virginia Loh-Hagan chose History of Toilet Paper and (Other Potty Tools) by Sophia Gholz and illustrated by Xiana Teimoy (Running Press Kids, 2022) (P). Going to the bathroom is a very natural act and everyone does it. But not everyone thinks about it. This book provides fun facts and histories about the tools humans have used to go potty.
Key for Audience Appropriate Levels:
The 2023 committee members were Dr. Joan Fingon, Robin Radlauer-Cramer, and Tawnya Shaw with Dr. Virginia Loh-Hagan as the Chair/Administrator. As always, it was difficult to narrow down our many high-quality submissions to 10 GOLD winners and 40 HONOR/SILVER winners.
The committee is very proud of this year’s robust list. It offers titles that represent a diverse group of author voices and a wide range of topics and genres. Check out past EUREKA! Award recipients under “Awards” on http://www.californiareading.org. We hope that you enjoy reading these books as much as we did!
2023 EUREKA! GOLD AWARDS:
Born Reading: 20 Stories of Women Reading Their Way Into History by Kathleen Krull and Virginia Loh-Hagan and illustrated by Aura Lewis (Simon & Schuster, 2023) (P, I, YA) - Learn about 20+ extraordinary women through short-form biographic profiles that share how their reading habits motivated them to change the world. The women in this collection include those who have influenced the world in STEM, music, politics, and more. In addition to amplifying powerful women, this book is an homage to the power of reading.
Boundless: An Extraordinary True Story about Overcoming Life’s Challenges and Striving for Greatness by Chaunté Lowe (Scholastic Focus, 2023) (P, I) - Lowe writes the story of her own personal journey. From surviving an impoverished childhood to becoming a world champion high jumper, Lowe’s life is truly inspiring. This is a nonfiction narrative about hard work, survival, and dreams.
Champion Chompers, Super Stinkers and other Poems by Extraordinary Animals by Linda Ashman and illustrated by Aparna Varma (Kids Can Press, 2023) (P) – What is the biggest animal in the world? Which animal is the best engineer? Learn about the top animals via playful poems and fun facts. Each persona poem offers a hint and readers are encouraged to figure out which animals are the best in some way.
Dig, Dance, Dive: How Birds Move to Survive by Etta Kaner and illustrated by June Steube (Owlkids, 2022) (P) – This book presents fun facts about 20 birds and their adaptations for survival. Kaner includes birds from all around the world and describes their various unexpected behaviors. Dig in and dive into the world of birds!
Eclipse by Andy Rash (Scholastic Press, 2023) (P, I) - Rash writes and illustrates a story about a father and his son sharing the experience of observing a total solar eclipse. This story is inspired by Rash’s own trip with his son in 2017 when they camped out and watched the eclipse together.
Elephants Remember: A True Story by Jennifer O’Connell (Tilbury House, 2022) (P) - O’Connell recounts the true story of Lawrence Anthony, a South African conservationist, who saved a traumatized matriarch of a wild elephant herd at his animal reserve in South Africa. After Anthony’s death, the elephant herd returned to Anthony’s home on the same day at the same time for the next two years in order to mourn him, as elephants remember.
Evelyn Hooker and the Fairy Project by Gayle E. Pitman and illustrated by Sarah Green (American Psychological Association, 2021) (I, YA) - This biography sheds light on unsung hero, Evelyn Hooker. Hooker’s groundbreaking research debunked the notion that homosexuality was a mental illness and was crucial in the Psychiatric Association’s 1973 decision to remove it from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Hooker has greatly impacted the LGBTQ+ rights movement.
Finding Family: The Duckling Raised by Loons by Laura Purdie Salas and illustrated by Alexandria Neonakis (Lerner Publishing, 2023) (P) - This is the heartwarming tale of unexpected animal cooperation: two loons raising an orphaned mallard duckling. These two species do not live similar lives, posing a shock to loon researchers in 2019 when they discovered the loon parents caring for the mallard duckling on a lake in Wisconsin. Readers will follow along as the duckling grows and displays a mix of both loon and mallard behaviors.
Latin Americans in History: 15 Inspiring Latinas and Latinos You Should Know by Monica Olivera (Rockridge Press, 2023) (P, I) – Olivera presents stories of various influential Latino/a/x Americans from a plethora of backgrounds and careers. Profiles include Simon Bolivar, Dolores Huerta, Cecilia Tait, and more. Each biography includes activity ideas and suggestions for further reading.
2023 Eureka! SILVER/HONOR AWARDS:
A Flower is a Friend by Frieda Wishinsky and illustrated by Karen Patkau (Pajama Press, 2023) (P) – Flowers are more than just pretty. They actually play an important role in the ecosystem of a garden. This book delves into the symbiotic relationships a flower has with the creatures around it. For example, did you know that flowers provide pollen dust, shade, food, and more.
African Icons: Ten People Who Shaped History by Tracey Baptiste and illustrated by Hillary D. Wilson (Workman Publishing, 2021) (P, I) - Learn about ten African icons whose vision helped to build nations and shape the course of history for the African continent and beyond. From kings and queens to inventors and scholars, these great minds changed the world. The book includes biographies, maps, graphics, and more.
Akim Aliu: Dreamer by Akim Aliu with Greg Anderson Elysée and illustrated by Marcus Williams and Karen De la Vega (Scholastic, 2023) (P, I) - This graphic memoir tells the story of Akim Aliu, a Nigeria-born Canadian-Ukrainian former professional ice hockey player. Aliu recounts his experience growing up as the only black child in his Ukrainian community. He also shares how he experienced systemic racism and racial violence. Despite his challenges, he never stopped dreaming.
Am I Made of Stardust? by Dr. Maggie Aderin-Pocock and illustrated by Chelen Ecija (Kane Miller, 2022) (P, I) – What would happen if I fall into a black hole? How long does it take to fly to a star? Aderin-Pocock addresses kids' questions about space and the universe. Silly questions are encouraged.
Any Body: A Comic Compendium of Important Facts and Feelings about Our Bodies by Katharina von der Gathen and illustrated by Anke Kuhl (Gecko Press,
2023) (I) – Everyone has questions about our bodies. This is a factual read about the common feelings we have being uncomfortable in our own skin. It is an encyclopedia of facts about skin, hair, and body functions, along with questions commonly asked during puberty regarding identity, beauty, and confidence. It encourages diversity, positivity, and acceptance of oneself and others.
Astonishing and Extinct Professions: 89 Jobs You Will Never Do by Markus Rottmann and illustrated by Michael Meister (Helvetiq, 2023) (P, I) – Learn about 89 past professions that are now extinct. Jobs emerge and fade away depending on what is needed by society. This book describes jobs like ice harvesters, gladiators, human computers, professional farters, Pony Express riders, coffee detectives, and more. It spans continents and time periods.
At Home with the Prairie Dog: The Story of a Keystone Species by Dorothy Hinshaw Patent and photographs by William Muñoz (Web of Life Children’s
Books, 2023) (P) – The ecosystem depends on keystone species; if these species were removed, the ecosystem would be drastically affected. Prairie dogs are not the most known animal, but as a keystone species, they are essential. They dig burrows, which are used by dozens of other animals. Also, their activity makes the grassy areas around their burrows nourishing for grazing animals. Learn how they provide food and shelter to many.
Bottle Tops: The Art of El Anatsui by Alison Goldberg and illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon (Lee and Low Books, 2022) (P, I) - Learn about El Anatsui, a Ghanaian artist who uses discarded materials to create breath-taking art. As an art student, he learned mainly about European traditions. He became curious about his own culture’s art history. He was inspired by discarded bottle tops, which he used to tell stories via tapestries and sculptures.
Buildings That Breathe: Greening The World’s Cities by Nancy F. Castaldo (Lerner Publishing, 2022) (I, YA) - Architects team up with botanists, urban wildlife ecologists, and other scientists to delay the effects of climate change by creating living spaces that incorporate vertical farms and high-rise forests. Learn about these changing urban landscapes around the world.
Butt or Face? Can You Tell Which End You’re Looking at? by Kari Lavelle (Sourcebooks Explore, 2023) (P) - When looking at a close-up photo of an animal, can you guess if it's the face or the bottom? Find out with this book! Learn facts about animals that use camouflage or other adaptations to hide in their environments.
Copycat: Nature-Inspired Design Around the World by Christy Hale (Lee and Low Books, 2022) (P, I) - Further your understanding of how nature's designs impact the inventions we have today. For example, a cat’s eye inspired the development of safety road reflectors and a lotus leaf inspired the invention of the umbrella. This book includes tanka poetry, photos, and illustrated drawings.
Coretta’s Journey: The Life and Times of Coretta Scott King by Alice Faye Duncan and illustrated by R. Gregory Christie (Astra Books for Young Readers, 2023) (P, I) - Learn the story of Coretta Scott King, who was more than just the wife of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. She was also a classical singer and an activist in her own right. She stood up against violence toward her family in the South. She overcame discrimination as a music student in the North. She also fought hard to preserve and continue the work of her late husband.
Genius Noses: A Curious Animal Compendium by Lena Anlauf and illustrated by Vitali Konstantinov (NorthSouth Books, 2023) (P, I) – Be nosy about animals! Animals use their noses for more than smelling. Noses tell us a lot about animal habits and habitats. This book is filled with fun facts about animals that can smell underwater, animals who use their noses as a snorkel, and more!
Gertie: The Darling Duck of WWII by Shari Swanson and illustrated by Renée Graef (Sleeping Bear Press, 2023) (P) - After the fallout of World War II, people needed a sign of a better future. They wanted hope, and that is what one plucky duck became. One April morning in the year of 1945, a duck found itself on a tall post in the Milwaukee River nesting, preparing to lay her eggs. Local reporters affectionately named this bird Gertie, who was a welcome distraction and a ray of hope.
How to Chat Chicken, Gossip Gorilla, Babble Bee, Gab Gecko, and Talk in 66 Other Animal Languages by Dr. Nick Crumpton and illustrated by Adrienne
Barman (What on Earth Books, 2023) (P) – Every animal-lover knows that animals communicate and talk. The animal kingdom is a noisy world with millions of different languages. Learn what dolphins, toads, chickens, gorillas, and more are saying.
I am the Thirsty Desert by Darcy Pattison and illustrated by Jordan Kim (Mims House, 2021) (P, I) - The desert is an environment which does not receive much rain, but when it does there is an explosion of growth. Learn more about what happens once this dry land experiences rainfall and monsoons. This book will change what you know about dry deserts.
Jerry Changed the Game! How Engineer Jerry Lawson Revolutionized Video Games Forever by Don Tate and illustrated by Cherise Harris (Simon & Schuster, 2023) (P) – Everyone plays video games. But do they know who Jerry Lawson is? Lawson, an African American engineer, is a video game revolutionary. He built a new type of video game console that allowed players to switch out cartridges. This made games less expensive, as players no longer had to buy new consoles in order to play a new game. Lawson also founded the nation’s first African American-owned video game company.
Jovita Wore Pants: The Story of a Mexican Freedom Fighter by Aida Salazar and illustrated by Molly Mendoza (Scholastic Press, 2023) (P) – This is a true story about Jovita Valdovinos, a Mexican revolutionary who disguised herself as a man in order to fight for her rights. As a young girl, she did not like wearing big skirts and preferred pants, which would allow her to climb trees and ride horses. Learn more about this Mexican heroine.
Justice Ketanji: The Story of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson by Denise Lewis Patrick and illustrated by Kim Holt (Orchard Books, 2023) (P) - Follow the life of the first Black woman to be confirmed to the United States Supreme Court. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson grew up in Florida, joined her high school debate team, studied at Harvard, and in 2022, was sworn into the Supreme Court. Learn more about her life in this book.
Lion on the Inside: How One Girl Changed Basketball by Bilqis Abdul-Qaadir with Judith Henderson and illustrated by Katherine Ahmed (Kids Can Press, 2023) (P) – Abdul-Qaadir, a Muslim American, had a flourishing basketball career, becoming the first woman to play in a hijab in the NCAA despite rules prohibiting her from doing so. This led her to walk away from the profession and become an activist. Eventually, the ban on hijabs was overturned. Readers will be inspired by her activism.
Love Is Loud: How Diane Nash Led the Civil Rights Movement by Sandra Neil Wallace and illustrated by Bryan Collier (Simon & Schuster, 2023) (P) - Diane Nash is an African American female civil rights leader who fought back against segregation by leading the Nashville Movement which included sit-ins at lunch counters, marches to the courthouse, etc. She also took on the Freedom Rides to integrate bus travel. It is important to include Nash’s contributions to the Civil Rights Movement.
Maps For Penguins and Other Traveling Animals by Tracey Turner and illustrated by Hui Skipp (Kane Miller, 2022) (P) - This picture book describes various animals and their migration paths. It includes interesting facts about animals, climate, habitats, and more. It also offers a wonderful introduction to maps and geography.
Meet the Megafauna!: Get to Know 20 of the Largest Animals to Ever Roam the Earth by Gabrielle Balkan and illustrated by Quang and Lien (Workman Publishing, 2023) (P, I) - Learn about 20 megafauna in this interactive picture book with mega-pages (i.e., large-format with gatefolds, pages that can be opened out). Megafauna are enormous animals that used to roam the earth but are now mostly extinct. Some examples are giant armored armadillos, giant sloths, and more.
Nature School: Lessons and Activities to Inspire Children’s Love for Everything Wild by Lauren Giordano, Stephanie Hathaway, and Laura Stroup (The Quarto Group, 2023) (P, I) – Young readers love learning about nature. This book tackles various aspects of the natural world including plants, animals, lifecycles, ecosystems, biomes, etc. In addition, it features over 30 hands-on activities and experiments.
O Is for Ossicone: A Surprising Animal Alphabet by Hannah Eliot and illustrated by Sarah Papworth (Simon & Schuster, 2023) (P) - This alphabet board book teaches young readers interesting facts about animals and their body parts, along with introducing vocabulary words such as ossicone, which are the hornlike parts of a giraffe’s head.
On the Tip of a Wave: How Ai Weiwei’s Art is Changing the Tide by Joanna Ho and illustrated by Cátia Chien (Scholastic, 2023) (P) – Ai Weiwei is a Chinese contemporary artist and activist. He advocated for democracy and human rights which is evident in his sculptures, photographs, and public works. Ho spotlights his “Life Jackets” exhibit in which Weiwei was inspired by Serbian refugees’ discarded life jackets on the shores of Lesbos. This book will teach readers about the refugee experience and the power of art.
Paul Bunyan: The Invention of an American Legend by Marlena Myles and Noah Van Sciver and illustrated by Noah Van Sciver (Astra Books for Young Readers, 2023) (P) – This is a different take on the Paul Bunyan story. It’s the story about the story. Learn about how the tale of Paul Bunyan, the legendary lumberjack, was born as a corporate marketing ploy for the timber industry and how this narrative has negatively impacted Native Americans. This book looks into the history of the lore and reveals how the legend has served to hide the seizure of lands from native communities.
Polar: Wildlife at the Ends of the Earth by Lindsey E. Carmichael and illustrated by Byron Eggenschwiler (Kids can Press, 2023) (P, I) - While the Arctic and Antarctica are at opposite ends of the earth, the creatures that inhabit it have adapted to the conditions in similar ways. Discover the different creatures that reside in both areas and learn about migration, hibernation, and more! This book ends with a look at how climate change has impacted these polar regions.
Sunshine: How One Camp Taught Me About Life, Death, and Hope by Jarrett J. Krosoczka (Scholastic, 2023) (I, YA) – In this autobiographic graphic novel, Krosoczka describes his time as a counselor at Camp Sunshine, a camp for sick children and their families. A sequel to Hey, Kiddo, this book is about the power of hope and resilience. It’s also about the importance of building safe spaces.
Tenacious: Fifteen Adventures Alongside Disabled Athletes by Patty Cisneros Prevo and illustrated by Dion MBD (Lee & Low Books, 2023) (P, I) - Get to know the extraordinary achievements of fifteen athletes who use adaptive equipment to achieve their athletic goals. These athletes have won gold medals and set world records. Some examples are Will Groux and Dr. Andrea Woodson-Smith. Readers will learn about their struggles and triumphs. They will also be introduced to the world of adaptive sports. Prevo, herself, is a two-time Gold medal Paralympian.
The Big Book of Mysteries: Uncover the Truth about over 100 Real-Life Mysteries by Tom Adams and illustrated by Yas Imamura (Nosy Crow, 2023) (P, I) – This collection of mysteries provides artwork, case studies, and explanations for hundreds of mysteries and urban legends such as the Loch Ness monster, Bigfoot, the Bermuda Triangle, and more! This book will make readers even more curious.
The Girl Who Heard the Music: How One Pianist and 85,000 Bottles and Cans Brought New Hope to an Island by Marni Fogelson and illustrated by Marta
Álvarez Miguéns and Mahani Teave (Sourcebooks Explore, 2023) (P) - Mahani Teave is an award-winning pianist and environmental activist from Easter Island, Chile. She is helping her home island, Rapa Nui, become more sustainable. Utilizing her passion and skill for music, she helped tackle the island's problem with ocean trash by creating a music school constructed of recycled trash. A great addition to music, STEM, and sustainability lessons.
The Glorious Forest That Fire Built by Ginny Neil (Amicus Publishing, 2023) (P) - Forest fires can be dangerous. But they are also crucial to the overall health of forests. Seeds sprout and roots grow beneath the ashes. This book is a lifecycle book, showing how life springs from death. It is told in rhyme and from the point of view of the forest. The back matter offers a timeline of forest succession.
The Queen of Chess: How Judit Polgár Changed the Game by Laurie Wallmark and illustrated by Stevie Lewis (Little Bee Books, 2023) (P) – Wallmark recounts the Judit Polgar’s journey to become the world’s youngest chess grandmaster at age 15. Polgar was a child prodigy and chess champion. She possessed passion and focus but also enjoyed swimming, cracking jokes, and playing with her sisters.
The Raven Mother by Hetxw’ms Gyetxw (Brett D. Huson) and illustrated by Natasha Donovan (Portage & Main Press, 2022) (P, I) - This book will transport readers to northwestern British Columbia to learn about the traditions of the Gitxsan, an indigenous people in Canada. Readers will learn why ravens play a crucial role in their ecosystems. This is the sixth book in Hetxw’ms Gyetxw’s Mothers of Xsan series.
The Secret Science of Sports: The Math, Physics, and Mechanical Engineering Behind Every Grand Slam, Triple Axel, and Penalty Kick by Jennifer Swanson (Black Dog & Leventhal, 2021) (P, I) – There are so many STEM concepts in sports. For example, throwing a ball utilizes Newton’s Law of Motion. Math is needed to calculate a player’s stats. Biology is tied to performance. And, helmets are designed with the latest engineering and technology. This book breaks down and explains the STEM behind sports which includes forces of motion, gravity, algebra, neuroscience, and more.
The Women Who Built Hollywood: 12 Trailblazers in Front of and Behind the Camera by Susan Goldman Rubin (Astra Books for Young Readers, 2023) (I,YA) - Learn about the female pioneers of Old Hollywood who had to fight against racism and sexism for their place in the industry. Rubin features actors, stunt women, directors, costume designers, and more. Some examples of profiles include Anna May Wong, Mary Pickford, and Hattie McDaniel. Representation matters and these women helped pave the way.
Vámonos: Mexican Folk Art Transport in English and Spanish by Cynthia Weill (Lee & Low Books, 2022) (P) – The spotlight of this picture book is the handmade folk-art pieces by local artisans in Oaxaca, Mexico. Young readers will learn about various modes of transportation such as a bike, bus, boat, etc. They will be exposed to Spanish words and Mexican folk art. This book is part of Weill’s series, “First Concepts in Mexican Folk Arts.”
What Are You Feeling?: A Picture Book of Your Emotions by The School of Life and illustrated by Daniel Gray-Barnett (The School of Life, 2023) (P) – Expressing feelings can be hard. This book tackles feelings directly. Readers will discover their emotions and be encouraged to articulate how they feel. This book features 20 different emotions such as sensitivity, pride, mischief, and more. It also addresses self-awareness and social-emotional learning.
Women in Engineering by Mary Wissinger and illustrated by Danielle Pioli (Science Naturally!, 2022) (P) - Readers are introduced to the engineering field by following the point of view of a girl asking questions, modeling a scientifically accurate conversation. This book is aimed toward girls, to motivate them to learn more about this discipline. Learn about how an engineer thinks and about female engineers who have improved and connected the world.
2023 EUREKA! SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS:
The committee also announced four special recognitions. These are books that were collectively not selected for the final list but that the individual committee member loved and wanted to be on the list.
Dr. Joan Fingon chose Sugar Pie Lullaby: The Soul of Motown in a Song of Love by Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by Sawyer Cloud (Sourcebooks Explore, 2023) (P). This bedtime book is also a lullaby and provides background information about Motown legends. Readers can follow and sing along as a caring adult and child share their love through music.
Robin Radlauer-Cramer chose Her Eyes on the Stars: Maria Mitchell, Astronomer by Laurie Wallmark and illustrated by Liz Wong (Creston Books, 2023) (P, I). Maria Mitchell is known as the “lady astronomer.” She was the first woman to get any kind of government job when she was hired by the U.S. Naval Observatory. She also became the first female astronomy professor in the world. She has inspired many young women to reach for the stars.
Tawnya Shaw chose Young, Gifted, & Black Too: Meet 52 More Black Icons from Past and Present by Jamia Wilson and illustrated by Andrea Pippins (Wide Eyed Editions, 2023) (P, I). This book is about 52 examples of Black excellence from all over the world and from various centuries. It includes the stories of Amanda Gorman, Naomi Osaka, Jackie Robinson, Octavia Butler, and more.
Dr. Virginia Loh-Hagan chose History of Toilet Paper and (Other Potty Tools) by Sophia Gholz and illustrated by Xiana Teimoy (Running Press Kids, 2022) (P). Going to the bathroom is a very natural act and everyone does it. But not everyone thinks about it. This book provides fun facts and histories about the tools humans have used to go potty.
Key for Audience Appropriate Levels:
- (P) = Primary (grades K-4)
- (I) = Intermediate (grades 5-8)
- (YA) = Young Adults (grades 9-12)
California Reading Association’s
2020 EUREKA! Nonfiction Children’s Book Awards
California Reading Association’s
2019 EUREKA! Nonfiction Children’s Book Awards
The EUREKA! Nonfiction Children’s Book Awards Committee was founded in 2000 by Dr. Helen Foster James. The committee’s mission is to celebrate excellence in nonfiction children’s books. Nonfiction includes informational texts, memoirs, poetry, and folktales.
The 2020 committee members were Audrey Fleming, Rene Hohls, and Ailish Johnson with Dr. Virginia Loh-Hagan as the Administrator. As always, it was difficult to narrow down all of our submissions to 10 GOLD winners and 40 HONOR/SILVER winners. The committee is very proud of this year’s robust list. It offers titles that represent a diverse group of author voices and a wide range of topics and genres.
This list is especially valuable given Common Core’s emphasis on nonfiction and informational texts. Check out past EUREKA! Award recipients under “Awards” on http://www.californiareading.org. We hope that you enjoy reading these books as much as we did!
2020 EUREKA! GOLD AWARDS:
Crossings: Extraordinary Structures for Extraordinary Animals by Katy S. Duffield and illustrated by Mike Orodan (Beach Lane Books, 2020) (P) - This book highlights the importance of wildlife crossings in the face of increased construction and habitat destruction. Readers get to take a look at various innovative transportation systems through the lens of elk populations, titi monkeys, and salamanders.
Drawing on Walls: A Story of Keith Haring by Matthew Burgess and illustrated by Josh Cochran (Enchanted Lion Books, 2020) (I, YA) - Keith Haring was an iconic pop artist who transformed the face of the New York City art scene. Burgess explores the artistic and personal life of this LGBTQ+ artist who made himself known on canvas as well as subway walls.
Even More Fantastic Failures: True Stories of People Who Changed the World Falling Down First by Luke Reynolds (Aladdin, 2020) (I/YA) - While we all work to succeed in life, we must acknowledge the failures that helped us be better. This is the focus of Reynold’s book. He details the countless failures of very successful change makers, including Barak Obama, Emma Gonzalez, Beyonce, and John Cena. He makes failing fantastic!
Everybody Counts: A Counting Story from 0 to 7.5 Billion by Kristin Roskifte (Wide Eyed Editions, 2020) (P) - Roskifte supports children in doing the unthinkable: counting to 7.5 billion! While each character is unique in their lives and experiences, they have one thing in common: They all count.
Fred’s Big Feelings: The Life and Legacy of Mister Rogers by Laura Renauld and illustrated by Brigette Barrager (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2020) (P) - It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood with Mr. Rodgers as he explores a range of feelings with his grandfather. Renauld’s book chronicles Fred Rodger’s rise from the television screen to the steps of Capitol Hill.
Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice by Nikki Grimes and illustrated by Laura Freeman (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2020) (P, I) - Grimes’s book details the impressive life of Vice President Kamala Harris. From her childhood spent attending civil rights marches to advocating for constituents in Congress, this story will move readers to dream big and fight for a better future. Harris may be the first female U.S. VP but she won’t be the last!
Nian: The Chinese New Year Dragon by Virginia Loh-Hagan and illustrated by Timothy Banks (Sleeping Bear Press, 2019) (P, I) - The terrorizing dragon, Nian, sleeps in the mountains, only to be awakened at the start of spring. Mei must follow her destiny and defeat Nian before it is too late. Loh-Hagan retells this classic Chinese New Year legend as readers learn about the many traditions practiced during the lunar new year celebration.
Our Dogs, Ourselves: How We Live With Dogs by Alexandra Horowitz (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2020) (YA) - The bond formed between dogs and their humans is unbreakable. Horowitz gives readers a unique look into the relationship we have with dogs, highlighting both the positive and negative aspects.
T is for Thor: A Norse Mythology Alphabet by Virginia Loh-Hagan and illustrated by Torstein Nordstrand (Sleeping Bear Press, 2020) (I) – From A to Z, Loh-Hagan gives readers insights about Norse mythology including gods, monster, realms, and of course, Ragnarök. This is a great summary and springboard into the Norse world.
You’re Invited to a Moth Ball: A Nighttime Insect Celebration by Loree Griffin Burns and illustrated by Ellen Harasimowicz (Charlesbridge, 2020) (P) - When the lights go away, the moths come out to play. Nighttime is a great time for bugs to have a ball! Burns invites readers to create a moth ball, a space to capture and study these mysterious little creatures.
2020 EUREKA! SILVER/HONOR AWARDS:
Amphibian Acrobats by Leslie Bulion and illustrated by Robert Meganck (Peachtree Publishing, 2020) (P) - Come one, come all! These acrobat amphibians are putting on a show. Readers discover the amazing talents of these diverse creatures as they skydive, climb, and bounce around their habitat.
Anole Invasion by Marta Magellan and illustrated by Mauro Magellan (Eifrig Publishing, 2018) (P, I) - Magellan invites readers into the world of anoles, a type of lizard that supports the ecosystem of the forest. From pollination to population control, these native anoles are crucial to the ecosystem, but what will happen when invading anoles overtake the environment?
Beautiful Shades of Brown by Nancy Churnin and illustrated by Felicia Marshall (Creston Books, 2020) (P, I) - Churnin’s book follows the iconic story of Laura Wheeler Waring, a pioneer in the art world from Paris to the United States. As a black woman growing up in the 19th century, Waring paved the way for so many.
Born Curious: 20 Girls Who Grew Up to Be Awesome Scientists by Martha Freeman and illustrated by Katy Wu (Simon and Schuster, 2020) (I) - Groundbreaking female scientists throughout history are featured in this inspiring book that encourages all young women to dream big. Freeman’s book spotlights innovative women such as Rosalind Franklin, Marie Tharp, and Shirley Anne Jackson.
Bringing Back the Wolves: How a Predator Restored an Ecosystem by Jude Isabella and illustrated by Kim Smith (Kids Can Press, 2020) (I) - Isabella follows this unexpected tale of a devastated ecosystem and the impact that grey wolves had on Yellowstone National Park. From population restabilization to clean water ways, these predators played a big role in restoring a once distressed environment.
Comparisons Big and Small: How the World Measures Up by Clive Gifford and illustrated by Ana Seixas (Kane Miller, 2020) (P) - Big and small, this book has it all. Gifford explores the wide world of comparisons in all things speed, height, weight, and so much more. These comparisons are accessible to children of all ages.
Desert Diary: Japanese American Kids Behind Barbed Wire by Michael O. Tunnell (Charlesbridge, 2020) (I) - Tunnell offers a unique look into the life of a Japanese American child during her time at the Topaz Japanese Internment Camp. Mae Yanagi writes about her experiences there, with detailed entries about school, etc. She also shows her resiliency through it all.
Equality’s Call: The Story of Voting Rights in America by Deborah Diesen and illustrated by Magdalena Mora (Beach Lane Books, 2020) (P) - Voting rights are the cornerstone of American democracy. But, some Americans have been denied voting rights. Throughout our history, heroes have fought hard for our democracy. Diesen chronicles a long history of voting rights in the United States and pushes readers to look forward to the work that must still be done.
Feel the Fog by April Pulley Sayre (Beach Lane Books, 2020) (P) - Sayre drifts into the fog to discover how it’s made, how it disappears, and its many interesting properties. Readers of all ages will love this book’s poetic rhythm and beautiful images.
Flowers in the Gutter: The True Story of the Edelweiss Pirates, Teenagers Who Resisted the Nazis by K. R. Gaddy (Dutton Books for Young Readers, 2020) (YA) - Gaddy follows the lives of three rebellious German teenagers who actively fought against Nazi Germany and World War II. These activists had put their lives at risk; their stories remind readers that true change happens when we dare to be brave.
Golden Gate Park, An A-to-Z Adventure by Marta Lindsey and illustrated by Michael Wertz (West Margin Press, 2020) (P) - Explore San Francisco’s most famous park from A-to-Z! Art, nature, and science are all included in this detailed park tour. Lindsey takes readers on an adventure, starting with Artist Ruth Asawa’s complex wire design and ending with Z for Zebra in the notable Koret Children’s Quarter carousel.
Gridiron: Stories from 100 Years of the National Football League by Fred Bowen and illustrated by James E. Ransome (Margaret K. McElderry Books, 2020) (I, YA) - The National Football League (NFL) wasn’t always an American staple. Bowen outlines over 100 years of development from the players to the coaches to the games. Readers will learn about iconic players, the creation of the draft, and the complexities of the modern-day NFL.
H is for Honey Bee: A Beekeeping Alphabet by Robbyn Smith van Frankenhuyzen and illustrated by Eileen Ryan Ewen (Sleeping Bear Press, 2020) (P) – Honey bees make the world go round! Smith van Frankenhuyzen explores the importance of honey bees as super pollinators and highlights their contributions to maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
Harlem Grown: How One Big Idea Transformed a Neighborhood by Tony Hillery and illustrated by Jessie Hartland (Simon and Schuster, 2020) (P) - One man with a green thumb can transform a concrete lot into a fruitful farm. Hillery introduces readers to Harlem Grow, a non-profit organization that supports students in learning about healthy food options while providing fresh produce for their community.
How to Find a Bird by Jennifer Ward and illustrated by Diana Sudyka (Beach Lane Books, 2020) (P) - Young birdwatchers will love Ward’s detailed guide to finding even the quietest birds in the trees. Featuring over fifty species, readers will learn that silence and patience are key to observing the smallest and biggest feathered creatures.
I Am Not a Label: 34 Disabled Artists, Thinkers, Athletes, and Activists From Past and Present by Cerrie Burnell and illustrated by Lauren Mark Baldo (Wide Eyed Editions, 2020) (I) - A label should never stop someone from achieving their dreams. Burnell introduces readers to 34 resilient people who did not let their disability define their impact on the world. Ludwig van Beethoven, Helen Keller, Stevie Wonder, and many more are all featured in this biography anthology.
In Focus: Space by Elizabeth Jenner and illustrated by Maggie Chiang, Emma Jayne, Jessie Ford, and Sol Linero (360 Degrees, 2020) (P, I) - Jenner’s interactive book launches readers into the wide world of outer space adventures. Starting with the Big Bang, Jenner explores outer space travel, complex solar systems, and encourages readers of all ages to question what our future in space will look like.
Joey: The Story of Joe Biden by Dr. Jill Biden & Kathleen Krull and illustrated by Amy June Bates (Simon and Schuster, 2020) (P) – Dr. Biden and Krull follow Joe Biden’s life as a young boy in working-class Pennsylvania to his time as Vice President in the White House. President Biden’s story inspires readers to challenge themselves and be the leader they are born to be.
Journey to City X: Adventures in Engineering for Kids: 35 Challenges to Design the Future by Brett Schilke (Rockport Publishers, 2020) (I) – Imagine colonizing a new planet: As humans leave Earth, they must move to a new planet and build the first settlement, City X. Schilke challenges readers to consider energy, environment, food, health, and so much more for this brand-new colony. The success of this settlement is in your hands!
Lift as You Climb: The Story of Ella Baker by Patricia Hruby Powell and illus. by R. Gregory Christie (Margaret K. McElderry Publishing, 2020) (P) - Ella Baker was a powerful, influential activist and educator during the Civil Rights movement. As described in Powell’s book, Baker’s dedication and hard work empowers others to fight for racial equality.
Literally: Amazing English Words and Where They Come from by Patrick Skipworth and illus. by Nicholas Stevenson (What on Earth Books, 2019) (I) - Skipworth’s book describes the complex ways that words have evolved in the English language, literally! Readers will learn about the many words that are influenced from around the world, including words like, “companion”, “caribou”, and “Kookaburra.”
Marjory Saves the Everglades: The Story of Marjory Stoneman Douglas by Sandra Neil Wallace and illus. by Rebecca Gibbon (Simon and Schuster, 2020) (P) - Marjory Stoneman Douglas was a pioneer in the environmental preservation movement and was the lead advocate for the creation of Everglades National Park in Florida. As described by Wallace, Douglas’s passion saved many plants and animals and continues to inspire conservationists today.
Martin Luther King Jr. by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara and illustrated by Mai Ly Degnan (Frances Lincoln Children’s Books, 2020) (P) - Vegara brings Dr. King’s story to young readers, detailing his hard work and passion for racial justice through non-violence. This book educates young readers about the work that was done during the Civil Rights movement and about the work that still needs to be done.
Mayflower: The Ship that Started a Nation by Rebecca Sigel and illustrated by Michael Lauritano & Mike Love (Words and Pictures, 2020) (I) - Marking the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower’s arrival, Siegel’s book transports readers to 1620 where the pilgrims changed the Wampanoag way of life forever. Siegel engages readers through interactive maps, inventories, and artwork.
Oil by Jonah Winter and illustrated by Jeanette Winter (Beach Lane Books, 2020) (P) - The Exxon Valdez oil spill left destructive effects, changing the lives of animals and plants that inhabit the area. This book takes readers on a journey from oil’s beginnings to oil’s harmful impact on the surrounding environment.
RESPECT: Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul by Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by Frank Morrison (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2020) (P) - Weatherford pays respect to Aretha Franklin’s life in this biography following her rise to stardom. From her childhood days as a gospel singer in Detroit to her installment in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Ms. Franklin’s story inspires readers to find their passion and work hard.
Running Wild: Awesome Animals in Motion by Galadriel Watson and illustrated by Samantha Dixon (Annick Press, 2020) (P) - This STEM-centered book brings wild animals to readers. It provides fascinating facts about creatures as they move. Watson covers animals from squids in the deepest part of the ocean to cheetahs racing in the savannah.
She Dared: Malala Yousafzai by Jenni L. Walsh (Scholastic Nonfiction, 2019) (I) - Malala Yousafzai is an iconic activist who advocates for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Walsh highlights Malala’s bravery and perseverance in this book chronicling the life she dares to live.
Tails from the Animal Shelter by Stephanie Shaw and illustrated by Liza Woodruff (Sleeping Bear Press, 2020) (P) - Pets of all kinds can call the animal shelter their home. Shaw highlights the great work that animal shelters have done for creatures of all sizes who come from a variety of places. Readers follow the stories of 10 different animals who are supported by their shelter.
The Atlas Obscura Explorer’s Guide for the World’s Most Adventurous Kid by Dylan Thuras & Rosemary Mosco and illustrated by Joy Ang (Workman Publishing, 2018) (I) - Thuras and Mosco take readers on a journey to 100 of the most interesting, thrilling places on Earth. Readers can explore the landmarks and attractions of many countries including Mexico, Vietnam, Zambia, and Antarctica.
The Farm That Feeds Us: A Year in the Life of an Organic Farm by Nancy Castaldo and illustrated by Ginnie Hsu (Words and Pictures, 2020) (P) – Readers will spend the day on a small scale, organic farm where the rooster crows, the fields are sowed, and there are enough pies to feed the entire county fair. When seasons change, so do the daily activities!
The Kitchen Pantry Scientist: Chemistry For Kids by Liz Lee Heinecke (Quarry Publishing, 2019) (I) - Explore the wonders of STEM from the comfort of your own home. From distilling perfume to replicating Marie Curie’s radioactive element purifier, Heinecke offers readers 25 experiments to engage kids in hands-on chemistry activities.
The Only Woman in the Photo: Frances Perkins and Her New Deal for America by Kathleen Krull and illustrated by Alexandra Bye (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2020) (P) - Krull takes on the untold story of the first woman to serve in a presidential cabinet. Frances Perkins’ influence formed the well-known New Deal under Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidency. Perkin’s story empowers readers to go forward and make a change in their community.
The Strange Birds of Flannery O’Conner by Amy Alznauer and illustrated by Ping Zhu (Enchanted Lion Books, 2020) (P) - Flannery O’Conner, an American writer, loved birds of all shapes and sizes. Alznauer details how O’Connor’s childhood interest turned into a lifelong passion, beginning with chickens and eventually graduating to peacocks.
This Book is Anti-Racist: 20 Lessons on How to Wake Up, Take Action, and Do the Work by Tiffany Jewell and illustrated by Aurelia Durand (Frances Lincoln Children’s Books, 2020) (I) - Supported by over 50 activities to develop internal anti-racism, Jewell’s journal encourages readers of all ages to reflect on the history of racism and our personal biases. Readers are empowered to begin their anti-racism journey and work toward undoing the racism that surrounds us.
We the People: The United States Constitution Explored and Explained by Aura Lewis and illustrated by Evan Sargent (Wide Eyed Editions, 2020) (YA) - Lewis makes the US Constitution accessible for young readers. Details from the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and all the Amendments help readers learn about American government.
Who Got Game? Baseball: Amazing but True Stories! by Derrick Barnes and illustrated by John John Bajet (Workman Publishing 2020) (I) - Barnes spotlights the unsung heroes of the baseball world. African American players, such as John “Bud” Fowler, female players, such as Jackie Mitchell, and Japanese players like Sadaharu Oh have paved the way for the baseball we know today.
WildLives: 50 Extraordinary Animals That Made History by Ben Lerwill and illustrated by Sarah Walsh (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2020) (I) - Lerwill highlights 50 stories of courageous animals from around the world. From contributing to lifechanging discoveries to supporting their human companions, these creatures left their mark on the world in a variety of ways.
William Still and His Freedom Stories: The Father of the Underground Railroad by Don Tate (Peachtree Publishing, 2020) (P) - William Still’s story of perseverance and resiliency is chronicled from his childhood spent in slavery to his important work in reuniting families. Tate brings this powerful story into the hands of young readers who have much to learn from Still’s moving words and actions.
Winged Wonders: Solving the Monarch Migration Mystery by Meeg Pincus and illustrated by Yas Imamura (Sleeping Bear Press, 2020) (P) - Why do monarch butterflies migrate from Canada to the United States to Mexico every year? Pincus solves this mystery of the monarch migration through collaboration between scientists, teachers, students, and adventurers.
2020 EUREKA! SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS:
The committee also announced four special recognitions. These are books that were collectively not selected for the final list but that the individual committee member loved and wanted to be on the list.
Audrey Fleming chose Everything You Need to Ace Computer Science and Coding in One Big Fat Notebook: The Complete Middle School Study Guide by Grant Smith and illustrated by Chris Pearce (Workman Publishing, 2020) (I, YA).
Rene Hohls chose When Darwin Sailed the Sea by David Long and illustrated by Sam Kalda (Wide Eyed Editions, 2020) (P, I).
Ailish Johnson chose This Is How I Grow by Dia L. Michels and illustrated by Wesley Davies (Science, Naturally! Publishing, 2020) (P).
Dr. Virginia Loh-Hagan chose This is Your Brain on Stereotypes: How Science Is Tackling Unconscious Bias by Tanya Lloyd Kyi and illustrated by Drew Shannon (Kids Can Press, 2020) (I, YA).
(P) = Primary (grades K-4) (I) = Intermediate (grades 5-8) (YA) = Young Adult (grades 9-12)
The 2020 committee members were Audrey Fleming, Rene Hohls, and Ailish Johnson with Dr. Virginia Loh-Hagan as the Administrator. As always, it was difficult to narrow down all of our submissions to 10 GOLD winners and 40 HONOR/SILVER winners. The committee is very proud of this year’s robust list. It offers titles that represent a diverse group of author voices and a wide range of topics and genres.
This list is especially valuable given Common Core’s emphasis on nonfiction and informational texts. Check out past EUREKA! Award recipients under “Awards” on http://www.californiareading.org. We hope that you enjoy reading these books as much as we did!
2020 EUREKA! GOLD AWARDS:
Crossings: Extraordinary Structures for Extraordinary Animals by Katy S. Duffield and illustrated by Mike Orodan (Beach Lane Books, 2020) (P) - This book highlights the importance of wildlife crossings in the face of increased construction and habitat destruction. Readers get to take a look at various innovative transportation systems through the lens of elk populations, titi monkeys, and salamanders.
Drawing on Walls: A Story of Keith Haring by Matthew Burgess and illustrated by Josh Cochran (Enchanted Lion Books, 2020) (I, YA) - Keith Haring was an iconic pop artist who transformed the face of the New York City art scene. Burgess explores the artistic and personal life of this LGBTQ+ artist who made himself known on canvas as well as subway walls.
Even More Fantastic Failures: True Stories of People Who Changed the World Falling Down First by Luke Reynolds (Aladdin, 2020) (I/YA) - While we all work to succeed in life, we must acknowledge the failures that helped us be better. This is the focus of Reynold’s book. He details the countless failures of very successful change makers, including Barak Obama, Emma Gonzalez, Beyonce, and John Cena. He makes failing fantastic!
Everybody Counts: A Counting Story from 0 to 7.5 Billion by Kristin Roskifte (Wide Eyed Editions, 2020) (P) - Roskifte supports children in doing the unthinkable: counting to 7.5 billion! While each character is unique in their lives and experiences, they have one thing in common: They all count.
Fred’s Big Feelings: The Life and Legacy of Mister Rogers by Laura Renauld and illustrated by Brigette Barrager (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2020) (P) - It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood with Mr. Rodgers as he explores a range of feelings with his grandfather. Renauld’s book chronicles Fred Rodger’s rise from the television screen to the steps of Capitol Hill.
Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice by Nikki Grimes and illustrated by Laura Freeman (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2020) (P, I) - Grimes’s book details the impressive life of Vice President Kamala Harris. From her childhood spent attending civil rights marches to advocating for constituents in Congress, this story will move readers to dream big and fight for a better future. Harris may be the first female U.S. VP but she won’t be the last!
Nian: The Chinese New Year Dragon by Virginia Loh-Hagan and illustrated by Timothy Banks (Sleeping Bear Press, 2019) (P, I) - The terrorizing dragon, Nian, sleeps in the mountains, only to be awakened at the start of spring. Mei must follow her destiny and defeat Nian before it is too late. Loh-Hagan retells this classic Chinese New Year legend as readers learn about the many traditions practiced during the lunar new year celebration.
Our Dogs, Ourselves: How We Live With Dogs by Alexandra Horowitz (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2020) (YA) - The bond formed between dogs and their humans is unbreakable. Horowitz gives readers a unique look into the relationship we have with dogs, highlighting both the positive and negative aspects.
T is for Thor: A Norse Mythology Alphabet by Virginia Loh-Hagan and illustrated by Torstein Nordstrand (Sleeping Bear Press, 2020) (I) – From A to Z, Loh-Hagan gives readers insights about Norse mythology including gods, monster, realms, and of course, Ragnarök. This is a great summary and springboard into the Norse world.
You’re Invited to a Moth Ball: A Nighttime Insect Celebration by Loree Griffin Burns and illustrated by Ellen Harasimowicz (Charlesbridge, 2020) (P) - When the lights go away, the moths come out to play. Nighttime is a great time for bugs to have a ball! Burns invites readers to create a moth ball, a space to capture and study these mysterious little creatures.
2020 EUREKA! SILVER/HONOR AWARDS:
Amphibian Acrobats by Leslie Bulion and illustrated by Robert Meganck (Peachtree Publishing, 2020) (P) - Come one, come all! These acrobat amphibians are putting on a show. Readers discover the amazing talents of these diverse creatures as they skydive, climb, and bounce around their habitat.
Anole Invasion by Marta Magellan and illustrated by Mauro Magellan (Eifrig Publishing, 2018) (P, I) - Magellan invites readers into the world of anoles, a type of lizard that supports the ecosystem of the forest. From pollination to population control, these native anoles are crucial to the ecosystem, but what will happen when invading anoles overtake the environment?
Beautiful Shades of Brown by Nancy Churnin and illustrated by Felicia Marshall (Creston Books, 2020) (P, I) - Churnin’s book follows the iconic story of Laura Wheeler Waring, a pioneer in the art world from Paris to the United States. As a black woman growing up in the 19th century, Waring paved the way for so many.
Born Curious: 20 Girls Who Grew Up to Be Awesome Scientists by Martha Freeman and illustrated by Katy Wu (Simon and Schuster, 2020) (I) - Groundbreaking female scientists throughout history are featured in this inspiring book that encourages all young women to dream big. Freeman’s book spotlights innovative women such as Rosalind Franklin, Marie Tharp, and Shirley Anne Jackson.
Bringing Back the Wolves: How a Predator Restored an Ecosystem by Jude Isabella and illustrated by Kim Smith (Kids Can Press, 2020) (I) - Isabella follows this unexpected tale of a devastated ecosystem and the impact that grey wolves had on Yellowstone National Park. From population restabilization to clean water ways, these predators played a big role in restoring a once distressed environment.
Comparisons Big and Small: How the World Measures Up by Clive Gifford and illustrated by Ana Seixas (Kane Miller, 2020) (P) - Big and small, this book has it all. Gifford explores the wide world of comparisons in all things speed, height, weight, and so much more. These comparisons are accessible to children of all ages.
Desert Diary: Japanese American Kids Behind Barbed Wire by Michael O. Tunnell (Charlesbridge, 2020) (I) - Tunnell offers a unique look into the life of a Japanese American child during her time at the Topaz Japanese Internment Camp. Mae Yanagi writes about her experiences there, with detailed entries about school, etc. She also shows her resiliency through it all.
Equality’s Call: The Story of Voting Rights in America by Deborah Diesen and illustrated by Magdalena Mora (Beach Lane Books, 2020) (P) - Voting rights are the cornerstone of American democracy. But, some Americans have been denied voting rights. Throughout our history, heroes have fought hard for our democracy. Diesen chronicles a long history of voting rights in the United States and pushes readers to look forward to the work that must still be done.
Feel the Fog by April Pulley Sayre (Beach Lane Books, 2020) (P) - Sayre drifts into the fog to discover how it’s made, how it disappears, and its many interesting properties. Readers of all ages will love this book’s poetic rhythm and beautiful images.
Flowers in the Gutter: The True Story of the Edelweiss Pirates, Teenagers Who Resisted the Nazis by K. R. Gaddy (Dutton Books for Young Readers, 2020) (YA) - Gaddy follows the lives of three rebellious German teenagers who actively fought against Nazi Germany and World War II. These activists had put their lives at risk; their stories remind readers that true change happens when we dare to be brave.
Golden Gate Park, An A-to-Z Adventure by Marta Lindsey and illustrated by Michael Wertz (West Margin Press, 2020) (P) - Explore San Francisco’s most famous park from A-to-Z! Art, nature, and science are all included in this detailed park tour. Lindsey takes readers on an adventure, starting with Artist Ruth Asawa’s complex wire design and ending with Z for Zebra in the notable Koret Children’s Quarter carousel.
Gridiron: Stories from 100 Years of the National Football League by Fred Bowen and illustrated by James E. Ransome (Margaret K. McElderry Books, 2020) (I, YA) - The National Football League (NFL) wasn’t always an American staple. Bowen outlines over 100 years of development from the players to the coaches to the games. Readers will learn about iconic players, the creation of the draft, and the complexities of the modern-day NFL.
H is for Honey Bee: A Beekeeping Alphabet by Robbyn Smith van Frankenhuyzen and illustrated by Eileen Ryan Ewen (Sleeping Bear Press, 2020) (P) – Honey bees make the world go round! Smith van Frankenhuyzen explores the importance of honey bees as super pollinators and highlights their contributions to maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
Harlem Grown: How One Big Idea Transformed a Neighborhood by Tony Hillery and illustrated by Jessie Hartland (Simon and Schuster, 2020) (P) - One man with a green thumb can transform a concrete lot into a fruitful farm. Hillery introduces readers to Harlem Grow, a non-profit organization that supports students in learning about healthy food options while providing fresh produce for their community.
How to Find a Bird by Jennifer Ward and illustrated by Diana Sudyka (Beach Lane Books, 2020) (P) - Young birdwatchers will love Ward’s detailed guide to finding even the quietest birds in the trees. Featuring over fifty species, readers will learn that silence and patience are key to observing the smallest and biggest feathered creatures.
I Am Not a Label: 34 Disabled Artists, Thinkers, Athletes, and Activists From Past and Present by Cerrie Burnell and illustrated by Lauren Mark Baldo (Wide Eyed Editions, 2020) (I) - A label should never stop someone from achieving their dreams. Burnell introduces readers to 34 resilient people who did not let their disability define their impact on the world. Ludwig van Beethoven, Helen Keller, Stevie Wonder, and many more are all featured in this biography anthology.
In Focus: Space by Elizabeth Jenner and illustrated by Maggie Chiang, Emma Jayne, Jessie Ford, and Sol Linero (360 Degrees, 2020) (P, I) - Jenner’s interactive book launches readers into the wide world of outer space adventures. Starting with the Big Bang, Jenner explores outer space travel, complex solar systems, and encourages readers of all ages to question what our future in space will look like.
Joey: The Story of Joe Biden by Dr. Jill Biden & Kathleen Krull and illustrated by Amy June Bates (Simon and Schuster, 2020) (P) – Dr. Biden and Krull follow Joe Biden’s life as a young boy in working-class Pennsylvania to his time as Vice President in the White House. President Biden’s story inspires readers to challenge themselves and be the leader they are born to be.
Journey to City X: Adventures in Engineering for Kids: 35 Challenges to Design the Future by Brett Schilke (Rockport Publishers, 2020) (I) – Imagine colonizing a new planet: As humans leave Earth, they must move to a new planet and build the first settlement, City X. Schilke challenges readers to consider energy, environment, food, health, and so much more for this brand-new colony. The success of this settlement is in your hands!
Lift as You Climb: The Story of Ella Baker by Patricia Hruby Powell and illus. by R. Gregory Christie (Margaret K. McElderry Publishing, 2020) (P) - Ella Baker was a powerful, influential activist and educator during the Civil Rights movement. As described in Powell’s book, Baker’s dedication and hard work empowers others to fight for racial equality.
Literally: Amazing English Words and Where They Come from by Patrick Skipworth and illus. by Nicholas Stevenson (What on Earth Books, 2019) (I) - Skipworth’s book describes the complex ways that words have evolved in the English language, literally! Readers will learn about the many words that are influenced from around the world, including words like, “companion”, “caribou”, and “Kookaburra.”
Marjory Saves the Everglades: The Story of Marjory Stoneman Douglas by Sandra Neil Wallace and illus. by Rebecca Gibbon (Simon and Schuster, 2020) (P) - Marjory Stoneman Douglas was a pioneer in the environmental preservation movement and was the lead advocate for the creation of Everglades National Park in Florida. As described by Wallace, Douglas’s passion saved many plants and animals and continues to inspire conservationists today.
Martin Luther King Jr. by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara and illustrated by Mai Ly Degnan (Frances Lincoln Children’s Books, 2020) (P) - Vegara brings Dr. King’s story to young readers, detailing his hard work and passion for racial justice through non-violence. This book educates young readers about the work that was done during the Civil Rights movement and about the work that still needs to be done.
Mayflower: The Ship that Started a Nation by Rebecca Sigel and illustrated by Michael Lauritano & Mike Love (Words and Pictures, 2020) (I) - Marking the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower’s arrival, Siegel’s book transports readers to 1620 where the pilgrims changed the Wampanoag way of life forever. Siegel engages readers through interactive maps, inventories, and artwork.
Oil by Jonah Winter and illustrated by Jeanette Winter (Beach Lane Books, 2020) (P) - The Exxon Valdez oil spill left destructive effects, changing the lives of animals and plants that inhabit the area. This book takes readers on a journey from oil’s beginnings to oil’s harmful impact on the surrounding environment.
RESPECT: Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul by Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by Frank Morrison (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2020) (P) - Weatherford pays respect to Aretha Franklin’s life in this biography following her rise to stardom. From her childhood days as a gospel singer in Detroit to her installment in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Ms. Franklin’s story inspires readers to find their passion and work hard.
Running Wild: Awesome Animals in Motion by Galadriel Watson and illustrated by Samantha Dixon (Annick Press, 2020) (P) - This STEM-centered book brings wild animals to readers. It provides fascinating facts about creatures as they move. Watson covers animals from squids in the deepest part of the ocean to cheetahs racing in the savannah.
She Dared: Malala Yousafzai by Jenni L. Walsh (Scholastic Nonfiction, 2019) (I) - Malala Yousafzai is an iconic activist who advocates for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Walsh highlights Malala’s bravery and perseverance in this book chronicling the life she dares to live.
Tails from the Animal Shelter by Stephanie Shaw and illustrated by Liza Woodruff (Sleeping Bear Press, 2020) (P) - Pets of all kinds can call the animal shelter their home. Shaw highlights the great work that animal shelters have done for creatures of all sizes who come from a variety of places. Readers follow the stories of 10 different animals who are supported by their shelter.
The Atlas Obscura Explorer’s Guide for the World’s Most Adventurous Kid by Dylan Thuras & Rosemary Mosco and illustrated by Joy Ang (Workman Publishing, 2018) (I) - Thuras and Mosco take readers on a journey to 100 of the most interesting, thrilling places on Earth. Readers can explore the landmarks and attractions of many countries including Mexico, Vietnam, Zambia, and Antarctica.
The Farm That Feeds Us: A Year in the Life of an Organic Farm by Nancy Castaldo and illustrated by Ginnie Hsu (Words and Pictures, 2020) (P) – Readers will spend the day on a small scale, organic farm where the rooster crows, the fields are sowed, and there are enough pies to feed the entire county fair. When seasons change, so do the daily activities!
The Kitchen Pantry Scientist: Chemistry For Kids by Liz Lee Heinecke (Quarry Publishing, 2019) (I) - Explore the wonders of STEM from the comfort of your own home. From distilling perfume to replicating Marie Curie’s radioactive element purifier, Heinecke offers readers 25 experiments to engage kids in hands-on chemistry activities.
The Only Woman in the Photo: Frances Perkins and Her New Deal for America by Kathleen Krull and illustrated by Alexandra Bye (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2020) (P) - Krull takes on the untold story of the first woman to serve in a presidential cabinet. Frances Perkins’ influence formed the well-known New Deal under Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidency. Perkin’s story empowers readers to go forward and make a change in their community.
The Strange Birds of Flannery O’Conner by Amy Alznauer and illustrated by Ping Zhu (Enchanted Lion Books, 2020) (P) - Flannery O’Conner, an American writer, loved birds of all shapes and sizes. Alznauer details how O’Connor’s childhood interest turned into a lifelong passion, beginning with chickens and eventually graduating to peacocks.
This Book is Anti-Racist: 20 Lessons on How to Wake Up, Take Action, and Do the Work by Tiffany Jewell and illustrated by Aurelia Durand (Frances Lincoln Children’s Books, 2020) (I) - Supported by over 50 activities to develop internal anti-racism, Jewell’s journal encourages readers of all ages to reflect on the history of racism and our personal biases. Readers are empowered to begin their anti-racism journey and work toward undoing the racism that surrounds us.
We the People: The United States Constitution Explored and Explained by Aura Lewis and illustrated by Evan Sargent (Wide Eyed Editions, 2020) (YA) - Lewis makes the US Constitution accessible for young readers. Details from the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and all the Amendments help readers learn about American government.
Who Got Game? Baseball: Amazing but True Stories! by Derrick Barnes and illustrated by John John Bajet (Workman Publishing 2020) (I) - Barnes spotlights the unsung heroes of the baseball world. African American players, such as John “Bud” Fowler, female players, such as Jackie Mitchell, and Japanese players like Sadaharu Oh have paved the way for the baseball we know today.
WildLives: 50 Extraordinary Animals That Made History by Ben Lerwill and illustrated by Sarah Walsh (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2020) (I) - Lerwill highlights 50 stories of courageous animals from around the world. From contributing to lifechanging discoveries to supporting their human companions, these creatures left their mark on the world in a variety of ways.
William Still and His Freedom Stories: The Father of the Underground Railroad by Don Tate (Peachtree Publishing, 2020) (P) - William Still’s story of perseverance and resiliency is chronicled from his childhood spent in slavery to his important work in reuniting families. Tate brings this powerful story into the hands of young readers who have much to learn from Still’s moving words and actions.
Winged Wonders: Solving the Monarch Migration Mystery by Meeg Pincus and illustrated by Yas Imamura (Sleeping Bear Press, 2020) (P) - Why do monarch butterflies migrate from Canada to the United States to Mexico every year? Pincus solves this mystery of the monarch migration through collaboration between scientists, teachers, students, and adventurers.
2020 EUREKA! SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS:
The committee also announced four special recognitions. These are books that were collectively not selected for the final list but that the individual committee member loved and wanted to be on the list.
Audrey Fleming chose Everything You Need to Ace Computer Science and Coding in One Big Fat Notebook: The Complete Middle School Study Guide by Grant Smith and illustrated by Chris Pearce (Workman Publishing, 2020) (I, YA).
Rene Hohls chose When Darwin Sailed the Sea by David Long and illustrated by Sam Kalda (Wide Eyed Editions, 2020) (P, I).
Ailish Johnson chose This Is How I Grow by Dia L. Michels and illustrated by Wesley Davies (Science, Naturally! Publishing, 2020) (P).
Dr. Virginia Loh-Hagan chose This is Your Brain on Stereotypes: How Science Is Tackling Unconscious Bias by Tanya Lloyd Kyi and illustrated by Drew Shannon (Kids Can Press, 2020) (I, YA).
(P) = Primary (grades K-4) (I) = Intermediate (grades 5-8) (YA) = Young Adult (grades 9-12)
California Reading Association’s
2019 EUREKA! Nonfiction Children’s Book Awards
2019 EUREKA! GOLD AWARDS:
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2019 EUREKA! HONOR AWARDS:
(P) = Primary (grades K-4) (I) = Intermediate (grades 5-8) (YA) = Young Adult (grades 9-12)
- Accused! The Trials of the Scottsboro Boys: Lies, Prejudice, and the Fourteenth Amendment by Larry Dane Brimmer (Boyds Mills & Kane, 2019) (YA)
- Alexander Graham Bell for Kids: His Life and Inventions with 21 Activities by Mary Key Carson (Chicago Review Press, 2018) (I)
- Anna Strong and the Revolutionary War Culper Spy Ring by Enigma Alberti and illus by Laura Terry (Workman Publishing, 2019) (I)
- Born Just Right by Jordan Reeves and Jen Lee Reeves (Simon and Schuster, 2019) (I, YA)
- Carter Reads the Newspaper by Deborah Hopkins and illustrated by Don Tate (Peachtree Publishing, 2019) (P)
- Code This! Puzzles, Games, Challenges, and Computer Coding Concepts for the Problem-Solver in You by Jennifer Szymanski (National Geographic Kids, 2019) (I, YA)
- Courageous Women of the Vietnam War by Kathryn Atwood (Chicago Review Press, 2018) (YA)
- Dancing Hands: How Teresa Carreño Played the Piano for President Lincoln by Margarita Engle and illustrated by Rafael Lope (Simon and Schuster, 2019) (P, I)
- Dogs in Space: The Amazing True Story of Belka and Strelka by Vix Southgate and Iris Deppe (Kane Miller and Friends Publishing, 2019) (P)
- Hey Kiddo: How Lost My Mother, Found My Father, and Dealt with Family Addiction by Jarrett J. Krosoczka (Scholastic, 2018) (YA)
- In Search of Dinosaurs by Dougal Dixon and illustrated by Danielle Fabbri (Quarto Publishing, 2019) (P, I)
- Just Like Rube Goldberg: The Incredible True Story of the Man Behind the Machines by Sarah Aronson and illustrated by Robert Neubecker (Simon and Schuster, 2019) (P, I)
- Karl’s New Beak: 3-D Printing Builds a Bird a Better Life by Lela Nargi (Capstone Publishing, 2019) (P, I)
- Little Larry Goes to School: The True Story of a Timid Chimpanzee Who Learned to Reach New Heights by Gerry Ellis with Mary Rand Hess (National Geographic Kids, 2019) (P)
- Malala Yousafzai: Warrior with Words by Karen Leggett Abouraya and illustrated by Susan L. Roth (Lee and Low Books, 2019) (P)
- Moon Mission: The Epic 400-Year Journey to Apollo 11 by Sigmund Brouwer (Kids Can Press, 2019) (I)
- Pollen: Darwin’s 130-Year Prediction by Darcy Pattison and illustrated by Peter Willis (Mims House Publishing, 2019) (P, I)
- Queer Heroes: Meet 53 LQBTQ Heroes from Past & Present by Arabelle Sicardi and illustrated by Sarah Tanat-Jones (Wide-Eyed Editions, 2019) (I, YA)
- Save the Crash-test Dummies by Jennifer Swanson and illustrated by TeMika Grooms (Peachtree Publishing, 2019) (I)
- Stretch to the Sun: From a Tiny Sprout to the Tallest Tree by Carrie A. Pearson and illus by Susan Swan (Charlesbridge, 2018) (P)
- Sweet Dreams, Sarah by Vivian Kirkfield and illustrated by Chris Ewald (Creston Books, 2019) (P)
- Teddy: The Remarkable Tale of a President, A Cartoonist, A Toymaker, and A Bear by James Sage and illustrated by Lisk Feng (Kids Can Press, 2019) (P)
- The Apollo Mission for Kids: The People and Engineering Behind the Race to the Moon by Jerome Pohlen (Chicago Review Press, 2019) (I)
- The Big Book of Monsters: The Creepiest Creatures from Classic Literature by Hal Johnson and illustrated by Tim Sievert (Workman Publishing, 2019) (I)
- The Book Rescuer: How A Mensch from Massachusetts Saved Yiddish Literature for Generations to Come by Sue Macy and illustrated by Stacy Innerst (Simon and Schuster, 2019) (P, I)The Boy Who Grew a Forest: The True Story of Jadav Payeng by Sophia Gholz and illustrated by Kayla Harren (Sleeping Bear Press, 2019) (P, I)
- The Eternal Soldier: The True Story of How a Dog Became a Civil War Hero by Allison Crotzer Kimmel and illustrated by Rotem Teplow (Little Bee Books, 2019) (P)
- The Forest in the Trees by Connie McLennan (Arbordale Publishing, 2019) (P)
- The Heart of a Boy: Celebrating the Strength and Spirit of Boyhood by Kate T. Parker (Workman Publishing, 2019) (I)
- The Lost Book of Adventure by Teddy Keen (Frances Lincoln Children’s Book, 2019) (I, YA)
- The Poison Eaters: Fighting Danger and Fraud in our Food and Drugs by Gail Jarrow (Boyds Mills & Kane, 2019) (I, YA)
- Undaunted: The Wild Life of Birute Mary Galdikas and Her Fearless Quest to Save Orangutans by Anita Silvey (National Geographic Kids, 2019) (I)
- Wild in the Streets: 20 Poems of City Animals by Marilyn Singer and illustrated by Gordy Wright (Quarto Publishing, 2019) (P, I)
- Wildheart: The Daring Adventures of John Muir by Julie Bertagna and illus by William Goldsmith (Yosemite Conservatory, 2019) (P, I)
- Yes, I Can Listen! by Steve Metzger and illustrated by Susan Szecsi (Chicago Review Press, 2019) (P)
(P) = Primary (grades K-4) (I) = Intermediate (grades 5-8) (YA) = Young Adult (grades 9-12)
2018 EUREKA! GOLD AWARDS:
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2018 EUREKA! HONOR AWARDS:
- Back from the Brink: Saving Animals from Extinction by Nancy Castaldo (HMH Books for Young Readers, 2018) (I)
- Between the Lines: How Ernie Barnes Went from Football Field to the Art Gallery by Sandra Neil Wallace and illustrated by Bryan Collier (Simon & Shuster/Paula Wiseman Books, 2018) (P)
- Blacklisted!: Hollywood, the Cold War, and the First Amendment by Larry Dane Brimner (Calkins Creek, 2018) (I, YA)
- Charlie Takes His Shot by Nancy Churnin and illustrated by John Joven (Albert Whitman & Company, 2018) (P)
- Days With Dad by Nari Hong (Enchanted Lion Books, 2017)
- Do Doodle Bugs Doodle? by Corinne Demas and Artemis Roehrig and illustrated by Ellen Shi (Persnickety Press, 2018) (P, I)
- Dreamers by Yuyi Morales (Neal Porter Books, 2018) (P, I)
- Everything You need To Ace Math in One Big Fat Notebook by Workman Publishing (Workman Publishing Company, 2016) (I)
- Fantastic Failures: True Stories of People Who Changed the World by Falling Down First by Luke Reynolds (Aladdin, 2018) (P, I)
- Flowers by Gail Gibbons (Holiday House, 2018)
- Gabi’s Fabulous Functions by Caroline Karanja and illustrated by Ben Whitehouse (Picture Window Books, 2018) (P)
- Game Changers: The Story of Venus and Serena Williams by Lesa Cline-Ransome and illustrated by James E. Ransome (Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books, 2018) (P)
- Hey-Ho, to Mars We’ll Go! by Susan Lendroth and illustrated by Bob Kolar (Charlesbridge, 2018) (P)
- How to Build a Hug: Temple Grandin and Her Amazing Squeeze Machine by Amy Guglielmo and Jacqueline Tourville and illustrated by Giselle Potter (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2018) (P)
- How Sweet the Sound: The Story of Amazing Grace by Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by Frank Morrison (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2018) (P)
- Hubots: Real-World Robots Inspired by Humans by Helaine Becker and illustrated by Alex Ries (Kids Can Press, 2018)
- I Am the Rain by John Paterson (Dawn Publications, 2018) (P)
- I Have the Right To: A High School Survivor’s Story of Sexual Assault, Justice, and Hope by Chessy Prout with Jenn Abelson (Margaret K. McElderry, 2018) (YA)
- Leaf Litter Critters by Leslie Bulion and illustrated by Robert Meganck (Peachtree Publishers, 2018) (P)
- Maggie: Alaska’s Last Elephant by Jennifer Keats Curtis and illustrated by Phyllis Saroff (Arbordale Publishing, 2018) (P)
- Midnight Teacher: Lilly Ann Granderson and Her Secret School by Janet Halfmann and illustrated by London Ladd (Lee & Low Books, 2018) (P)
- Our Stories, Our Voices: 21 YA Authors Get Real About Injustice, Empowerment, and Growing Up Female in America edited by Amy Reed (Simon Pulse, 2018) (YA)
- President Lincoln’s Killer and the America He Left Behind by Jessica Gunderson (Compass Point Books/Capstone, 2018) (I)
- Rewilding: Giving Nature a Second Chance by Jane Drake and Ann Love (Annick Press, 2018) (I)
- Smart Girl’s Guide: Sports & Fitness: by Therese Kauchak Maring and illustrated by Brenna Hansen (American Girl, 2018) (P, I)
- Secrets of American History: Fearless Flyers, Dazzle Painters, and Code Talkers! by Elizabeth Dennis and illustrated by Valerio Fabbretti (Simon Spotlight, 2018) (P)
- Super Cats: True Stories of Felines that Made History by Elizabeth MacLeod (Annick Press, 2017) (P, I)
- The Brilliant Deep: Rebuilding the World’s Coral Reefs by Kate Messner and illustrated by Matthew Forsythe (Chronicle, 2018) (P)
- The Elephant by Jenni Desmond (Enchanted Lions Books, 2018) (P)
- The Flying Girl: How Aida de Acosta Learned to Soar by Margarita Engle and illustrated Sara Palacios (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2018) (P)
- The True Tale of a Gaintess: The Story of Anna Swan by Anne Renaud and illustrated by Marie Lafrance (Kids Can Press, 2018) (P)
- Titanic’s Last Hours: The Facts by Meish Goldish (Bearport Publishing, 2017) (P, I)
- Trash Revolution: Breaking the Waste Cycle by Erica Fyvie and illustrated by Bill Slavin (Kids Can Press) (P, I)
- Turn This Book into a Beehive! by Lynn Brunelle and illustrated by Anna-Maria Jung (Workman Publishing, 2018) (P, I)
- Turtle Island: The Story of North America’s First People by Eldon Yellowhorn and Kathy Lowinger (Annick Press, 2017) (I, YA)
- W is for Welcome: A Celebration of America’s Diversity by Brad Herzog (Sleeping Bear Press, 2018) (P)
- What a Wonderful Word by Nicola Edwards and illustrated by Luisa Uribe (Kane Miller Books, 2018) (P)
- What Do You Do with a Voice Like That? The Story of Extraordinary Congresswoman Barbara Jordan by Chris Barton and illustrated by Ekua Holmes (Beach Lane Books, 2018) (P)
- Wild Buildings and Bridges: Architecture Inspired by Nature by Etta Kaner and illustrated by Carl Wiens (Kids Can Press, 2018) (P, I)
- Write On, Irving Berlin! By Leslie Kimmelman and illustrated by David C. Gardner (Sleeping Bear Press, 2018) (P)
California Reading Association’s
2017 EUREKA! Nonfiction Children’s Book Awards
2017 EUREKA! GOLD AWARDS:
- ABCs From Space: A Discovered Alphabet by Adam Voiland (Simon & Schuster /Paula Wiseman Books, 2017) (P, I)
- Beauty and the Beak: How Science, Technology, and a 3D-Printed Beak Rescued a Bald Eagle by Deborah Lee Rose and Jane Veltkamp (Persnickety Press, 2017) (P, I)
- Bound By Ice: A True North Pole Survival Story by Sandra Neil Wallace and Rich Wallace (Calkins Creek, 2017) (I, YA)
- Chomp! Fierce Facts About the Bite Force, Crushing Jaws, and Mighty Teeth of Earth’s Champion Chewers by Brady Barr (National Geographic Kids, 2017) (P, I)
- Death on the River of Doubt: Theodore Roosevelt’s Amazon Adventure by Samantha Seiple (Scholastic Press, 2017) (YA)
- Muddy: The Story of Blues Legend Muddy Waters by Michael Mahin and illustrated by Evan Turk (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2017) (P, I)
- Pocket Full of Colors: The Magical World of Mary Blair, Disney Artist Extraordinaire by Amy Guglielmo and Jacqueline Tourville andillustrated by Brigette Barrager (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2017) (P)
- Take A Picture of Me, James Van Der Zee by Andrea J. Loney and illustrated by Keith Mallett (Lee & Low Press, 2017) (P, I)
- The Elephant Keeper: Caring for Orphaned Elephants in Zambia by Margriet Ruurs and illustrated by Pedro Covo (Kids Can Press, 2017) (P, I)
- Trudy’s Big Swim: How Gertrude Ederle Swam the English Channel and Took the World by Storm by Sue Macy and illustrated by Matt Collins (Holiday House, 2017) (P, I)
- Up! Up! Up! Skyscraper by Anastasia Suen and illustrated by Ryan O’Rourke (Charlesbridge Press, 2017) (P)
- Zoo Scientists to the Rescue by Patricia Newman and photographs by Annie Crawley (Millbrook Press, 2017) (P, I)
2017 EUREKA! HONOR AWARDS:
(P) = Primary (grades K-4) (I) = Intermediate (grades 5-8) (YA) = Young Adult (grades 9-12)
- A Book of Bridges: Here to There and Me to You by Cheryl Keely and illustrated by Celia Krampien (Sleeping Bear Press, 2017) (P)
- A Kids’ Guide To America’s First Ladies by Kathleen Krull and illustrated by Anna DiVito (HarperCollins, 2017) (I, YA)
- Balderdash! John Newbery and the Boisterous Birth of Children’s Books by Michelle Markel and illustrated by Nancy Carpenter (Chronicle Books, 2017) (P, I)
- Before She Was Harriet by Lesa Cline-Ransome and illustrated by James E. Ransome (Holiday House, 2017) (P, I)
- Caroline’s Comets: A True Story by Emily Arnold McCully (Holiday House, 2017) (P)
- Engineered!: Engineering Design At Work by Shannon Hunt and illustrated by James Gulliver Hancock (Kids Can Press, 2017)
- Fault Lines in the Constitution: The Framers, Their Fights, and the Flaws That Affect Us Today by Cynthia Levinson and Sanford Levinson (Peachtree Publishers, 2017) (I, YA)
- Guy Stuff: The Body Book for Boys by Cara Natterson and illustrated by Micah Player (American Girl, 2017) (I)
- Hatching Chicks in Room 6 by Caroline Arnold (Charlesbridge, 2017) (P)
- Lines, Bars and Circles: How William Playfair Invented Graphs by Helaine Becker and illustrated by Marie-Eve Tremblay (Kids Can Press, 2017)
- Loving vs. Virginia: A Documentary Novel of the Landmark Civil Rights Case by Patricia Hruby Powell and illustrated by Shadra Strickland (Chronicle Books, 2017) (YA)
- Manjhi Moves A Mountain by Nancy Churnin and illustrated by Danny Popovici (Creston Books, 2017) (P, I)
- Motor Girls: How Women Took the Wheel and Drove Boldly Into the Twentieth Century by Sue Macy (National Geographic Children’s Books, 2017) (I, YA)
- On Duck Pond by Jane Yolen and illustrated by Bob Marshall (Cornell Lab Publishing Group, 2017) (P)
- Out of School and into Nature: The Anna Comstock Story by Suzanne Slade and illustrated by Jessica Lanan (Sleeping Bear Press, 2017) (P, I)
- Periodic Table by Sean Callery and Miranda Smith (Scholastic Press, 2017) (I, YA)
- Poison: Deadly Deeds, Perilous Professions, and Murderous Medicines by Sarah Albee (Crown Books, 2017) (I, YA)
- Poop Detectives by Ellen Lawrence (Bearport Publishing, 2017) (P)
- Saved by the Boats: The Heroic Sea Evacuation of September 11 by Julie Gassman and illustrated by Steve Moors (Capstone Press, 2016) (I)
- Skateboards (Made By Hand) by Patricia Lakin (Aladdin, 2017)
- Scientist Academy by Steve Martin and illustrated by Essi Kimpimaki (Kane Miller, 2017) (I, YA)
- Stormy Seas: Stories of Young Boat Refugees by Mary Beth Leatherdale and illustrated by Eleanor Shakespeare (Annick Press, 2017) (I, YA)
- Swan: The Life and Dance of Anna Pavlova by Laurel Snyder and illustrated by Julie Morstad (Chronicle Books, 2017) (P, I)
- The Banana Leaf Ball: How Play Can Change the World by Katie Smith Milway and illustrated by Shane Evans (Kids Can Press, 2017) (P, I)
- The Heart of Everything That is (Young Readers Edition): The Untold Story of Red Cloud, An American Legend by Bob Drury and Tom Clavin (Margaret K. McElderry Books, 2017) (YA)
- The Secret Life of the Red Fox by Laurence Pringle and illustrated by Kate Garchinsky (Boyds Mills Press, 2017) (P, I)
- The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist by Cynthia Levinson and illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2017) (P, I)
- This Is How We Do It: One Day in the Lives of Seven Kids from around the World by Matt Lamothe (Chronicle Books, 2017) (P, I)
- Why, Fly Guy? Answers to Kids’ Big Questions by Tedd Arnold (Scholastic Inc., 2017) (P)
- Word Play by Adam Lehrhaupt and illustrated by Jared Chapman (Arthur A. Levine Books, 2017) (P)
(P) = Primary (grades K-4) (I) = Intermediate (grades 5-8) (YA) = Young Adult (grades 9-12)
California Reading Association’s
2016 EUREKA! Nonfiction Children’s Book Awards
2016 EUREKA! GOLD AWARDS:
- Ada’s Violin: The Story of the Recycled Orchestra of Paraguay by Susan Hood and illustrated by Sally Wern Comport (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2016) (P, I)
- Bubonic Plague: When Plague Invaded America by Gail Jarrow (Calkins Creek, 2016) (I, YA)
- Fashion Rebels: Style Icons Who Changed the World through Fashion by Carlyn Cerniglia Beccia (Aladdin, 2016) (I, YA)
- Good Trick Walking Stick by Sheri Mabry Bestor and illustrated by Jonny Lambert (Sleeping Bear Press, 2016) (P)
- I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsberg Makes Her Mark by Debbie Levy and illustrated by Elizabeth Baddeley (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2016) (P, I)
- Look and Learn: Birds (PBS Kids) by Sarah Parvis (Downtown Bookwords, 2016) (P)
- Miss Mary Reporting by Sue Macy and illustrated by C.F. Payne (Paula Wiseman Books, 2016) (P, I)
- Rocks, Minerals, & Gems: The Definitive Visual Catalog of the Treasure beneath your Feet by Sean Callery and Miranda Smith (Scholastic Nonfiction, 2016) (I, YA)
- Sachiko: A Nagasaki Bomb Survivor’s Story by Caren Stelson (Carolrhoda Books, 2016) (I, YA)
- Samurai Rising: The Epic Life of Minamoto Yoshitsune by Pamela S. Turner and illustrated by Gareth Hinds (Charlesbridge, 2016) (YA)
- The Music in George’s Head: George Gershwin Creates Rhapsody in Blue by Suzanne Slade and illustrated by Stacy Innerst (Calkins Creek, 2016) (P, I)
- Water Wow! A Visual Exploration by Antonia Banyard and Paula Ayer and illustrated by Belle Wuthrich (Annick Press, 2016) (P, I, YA)
- A Girl Called Vincent: The Life of Poet Edna St. Vincent Millay by Krystyna Poray Goddu (Chicago Review Press, 2016) (I, YA)
- Answering the Cry for Freedom: Stories of African Americans and the American Revolution by Gretchen Woelfle and illustrated by R. Gregory Christie (Calkins Creek, 2016) (I, YA)
- Astronaut Academy by Steve Martin (Kane Miller, 2016) (P, I)
- At the Marsh in the Meadow by Jeanie Mebane and illustrated by Gerald Guerlais (Sleeping Bear Press, 2016) (P)
- Big Top Burning: The True Story of an Arsonist, a Missing Girl, and The Greatest Show on Earth by Laura A. Woollett (Chicago Review Press, 2015) (I, YA)
- Blood Brother: Jonathan Daniels and His Sacrifice for Civil Rights by Rich Wallace and Sandra Neil Wallace (Calkins Creek, 2016) (YA)
- Brain Games: The Mind-Blowing Science of Your Amazing Brain by Jennifer Swanson (National Geographic Kids, 2015) (I)
- Children Just Like Me: A New Celebration of Children Around the World by (DK Children, 2016) (P, I)
- Dating and Sex: A guide for the 21st Century Teen Boy by Andrew P. Smiler (Magination Press, 2016) (YA)
- Dive!: World War II Stories of Sailors and Submarines in the Pacific by Deborah Hopkinson (Scholastic, 2016) (I, YA)
- Flying Frogs and Walking Fish by Steve Jenkins and Robin Page (HMH Books for Young Readers, 2016) (P)
- Fresh Delicious: Poems from the Farmer’s Market by Irene Latham and illustrated by Mique Moriuchi (WordSong, 2016) (P)
- Grover Cleveland, Again! by Ken Burns and illustrated by Gerald Kelley (Knopf Books for Young Readers, 2016) (I, YA)
- Hopping Ahead of Climate Change: Snowshoe Hares, Science, and Survival by Sneed B. Collard III (Bucking Horse Books, 2016) (I)
- Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker by Patricia Hruby Powell and illustrated by Christian Robinson (Chronicle Books, 2016) (I)
- Lift Your Light a Little Higher: The Story of Stephen Bishop, Slave-Explorer by Heather Henson and illustrated by Bryan Collier (Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books, 2016) (P)
- Living Fossils: Clues to the Past by Caroline Arnold and illustrated by Andrew Plant (Charlesbridge, 2016) (P, I)
- Maker Lab: 28 Super Cool Projects by Jack Challoner (Smithsonian/DK Children, 2016) (P, I)
- Marvelous Cornelius: Hurricane Katrina and the Spirit of New Orleans by Phil Bildner and illustrated by John Parra (Chronicle Books, 2016) (P)
- Monster Science: Could Monsters Survive (and Thrive!) in the Real World? By Helaine Becker and Phil McAndrew (Kids Can Press,2016) (P, I)
- Mountain Chef: How One Man Lost His Groceries, Changed His Plans, and Helped Cook Up the National Park Service by Annette Bay Pimental and illustrated by Rich Lo (Charlesbridge, 2016) (P, I)
- Octopuses One to Ten by Ellen Jackson and Robin Page (Beach Lane Books, 2016) (P)
- Secrets of Animal Camouflage: A Shine-A-Light Book by Carron Brown and Wesley Robins (Kane Miller, 2016) (P)
- Solving the Puzzle Under the Sea: Marie Tharp Maps the Ocean Floor by Robert Burleigh and illustrated by Raul Colon (Paula,Wiseman, 2016) (P)
- The Distance Between Us: A Memoir by Reyna Grande (Aladdin, 2016) (YA)
- The Marvelous Thing That Came from a Spring: The Accidental Invention of the Toy That Swept the Nation by Gilbert Ford,(Atheneum, 2016) (P)
- The Soda Bottle School: A True Story of Recycling, Teamwork, and One Crazy Idea by Laura Kutner and Suzanne Slade and,illustrated by Aileen Darraugh (Tilbury House, 2014) (P,I)
- Tiny Stitches: The Life of Medical Pioneer Vivien Thomas by Gwendolyn Hooks and illustrated by Colin Bootman (Lee and Low, 2016) (P, I)
- Vanished: True Tales of Mysterious Disappearances by Elizabeth MacLeod (Annick Press, 2016) (I, YA)
- Vietnam: A History of the War by Russell Freedman (Holiday House, 2016) (I, YA)
California Reading Association’s
2015 EUREKA! Nonfiction Children’s Book Awards
2015 EUREKA! GOLD AWARDS:
- A Friend for Lakota by Jim and Jamie Dutcher (National Geographic Kids, 2015) (P)
- Ada Byron Lovelace and the Thinking Machine by Laurie Wallmark, illus. by April Chu (Creston Books, 2015) (P,I)
- Elephant Man by Mariangela DiFiore, illus. by Hilde Hodnefjeld, transl. by Rosie Hedger (Annick Press, 2015) (I)
- Enchanted Air: Two Cultures, Two Wings by Margarita Engle (Athenaeum Books for Young Readers, 2015) (YA)
- Fatal Fever: Tracking Down Typhoid Mary by Gail Jarrow (Boyds Mill Press, 2015) (I, YA)
- Shadow Catcher by Michael Burgan (Capstone Press, 2015) (I)
- Swing Sisters: The Story of the International Sweethearts of Rhythm by Karen Deans, illus. by Joe Cepeda (HolidayHouse, 2015) (P)
- The Rain Wizard by Larry Dane Brimner (Boyds Mill Press, 2015) (YA)
- The Secret Galaxy by Fran Hodgkins, photos by Mike Taylor (Tilbury House Publishers, 2015) (P, I)
- Why’d They Wear That? by Sarah Albee (National Geographic Kids, 2015) (I, YA)
- A Chicken Followed Me Home! Questions and Answers about a Familiar Fowl by Robin Page (Beach Lane Books, 2015) (P)
- Abe Lincoln: His Wit And Wisdom From A-Z by Alan Shroeder, illus. by John O’Brien (Holiday House, 2015) (I)
- Book Of Nature Poetry by J. Patick Lewis (National Geographic Kids, 2015) (P, I)
- Courage & Defiance: Stories of Spies, Saboteurs, and Survivors in World War II Denmark by Deborah Hopkinson (Scholastic Press, 2015) (I, YA)
- Digging for Tyrannosaurus Rex by Thomas R. Holtz, Jr. (Capstone Press, 2015) (P, I)
- Dinosaurs Live On! and Other Fun Facts by Laura Lyn DiSiena and Hannah Eliot, illus. by Aaron Spurgeon (Little Simon, 2015) (P)
- Earmuffs for Everyone! How Chester Greenwood Became Known as the Inventor of Earmuffs by Meghan McCarthy, illus. by Meghan McCarthy (Paula Wiseman Books, 2015) (P)
- Ebola: Fears and Facts by Patricia Newman (Lerner Publishing Group, 2015) (I)
- Egg: Nature’s Perfect Package by Steve Jenkins & Robin Page (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2015) (P. I)
- Firebirds Valuing Natural Wildfires And Burned Forests by Sneed B. Collard III (Bucking Horse Books, 2015) (I)
- Foodprints by Paula Ayer (Annick Press, 2015) (I, YA)
- Funny Bones by Duncan Tonatiuh (Abrams Books for Young Readers, 2015) (P)
- Fur, Fins, and Feathers: Abraham Dee Bartlett and the Invention of the Modern Zoo by Cassandre Maxwell (Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, 2015) (P)
- Emmanuel’s Dream by Laurie Ann Thompson (Schwartz & Wade, 2015) (P, I)
- First Flight Around The World by Tim Grove (Abrams Books for Young Readers, 2015) (I)
- Hot Pink by Susan Goldman Rubin (Abrams Books for Young Readers, 2015) (I, YA)
- If You Love Honey by Martha Sullivan, illus by Cathy Morrison (Dawn Publications 2015) (P)
- Life in America: Comparing Immigrant Experiences by Brynn Baker (Capstone Press, 2015) (I)
- Malala Yousafzai: Warrior with Words by Karen Abouraya, illus. by L.C. Wheatley (StarWalk Kids Media, 2014) (I)
- Mighty Mole and the Super Soil by Mary Quattlebaum, illus. by Chad Wallace (Dawn Publications, 2015) (P)
- Octopuses! by Laurence Pringle, illus. by Meryl Henderson (Boyds Mill Press, 2015) (I)
- One Plastic Bag: Isatou and the Recycling Women of Gambia by Miranda Paul, illus. by Elizabeth Zunon (Lerner Publishing Group, 2015) (P)
- Pinstripe Pride: The Inside Story of the New York Yankees by Marty Appel (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2015) (I, YA)
- Spidermania: Friends on the Web by Alexandra Siy, photos by Dennis Kunkel (Holiday House, 2015) (I)
- Somewhere There Is Still a Sun: A Memoir of the Holocaust by Michael Gruenbaum with Todd Hasak-Lowy (Aladdin, 2015) (I, YA)
- The Case for Loving by Selina Alko, illus. by Sean Qualls (Arthur A. Levine Books, 2015) (P)
- The Fruits We Eat by Gail Gibbons (Holiday House, 2015) (P)
- The Poem That Will Not End by Joan Bransfield Graham, illus. by Kyrsten Brooker (Two Lions, 2014) (P, I)
- The Inker’s Shadow by Allen Say (Scholastic Press, 2015) (I)
- This is Not a Math Book by Anna Weitman (Kane Miller, 2015) (I, YA)
- Thomas Jefferson Grows A Nation by Peggy Thomas, illus. by Stacy Innerst (Boyds Mill Press, 2015) (I)
- Treasury of Norse Mythology by Donna Jo Napoli, illus. by Christina Balit (National Geographic Kids, 2015) (I, YA)
- Trombone Shorty by Troy Andrews (Abrams Books for Young Readers, 2015) (P)
- Twenty-Two Cents: Muhammad Yunus and the Village Bank by Paula Yoo, illus. by Jamel Akib (Lee & Low, 2014) (I)
- Untamed: the Wild Life of Jane Goodall by Anita Silvey (National Geographic Kids, 2015) (I)
California Reading Association’s
2014 EUREKA! Nonfiction Children’s Book Awards
2014 EUREKA! GOLD AWARDS
2014 EUREKA! HONOR AWARDS:
- Bone Collection: Animals by Rob Scott Colson
- Grandfather Gandhi by Anne Gandhi and Bethany Hegedus, illustrated by Evan Turk
- Hidden Girl: The True Story of a Modern-‐Day Child Slave by Shyima Hall and Lisa Wysocky
- If…: A Mind-‐Bending New Way of Looking at Big Ideas and Numbers by David J. Smith, illustrated by Steve Adams
- Mogie: The Heart of the House by Kathi Appelt, illustrated by Marc Rosenthal
- Mumbet’s Declaration of Independence by Gretchen Woelfe, illustrated by Alix Delinois
- Separate is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez and Her Family’s Fight for Desegregation by Duncan Tonatiuh
- Stubby the War Dog: The True Story of World War I’s Bravest Dog by Ann Bausum
2014 EUREKA! HONOR AWARDS:
- A World War II Timeline by Elizabeth Raum
- Baseball Is… by Louise Borden, illustrated by Raul Colon
- Batman Science by Tammy Enz and Agnieszka Biskup
- Because They Marched: The People’s Campaign for Voting Rights That Changed America by Russell Freedman
- Before the World Was Ready: Stories of Daring Genius in Science by Claire Eamer, illustrated by Sa Boothroyd
- Bugged: How Insects Changed History by Sarah Albee, illustrated by Robert Leighton
- Call of the Klondike: A True Gold Rush Adventure by David Meissner and Kim Richardson
- Dreaming in Indian: Contemporary Native American Voices edited by Lisa Charleyboy and Mary Leatherdale
- Eye to Eye: How Animals See The World by Steven Jenkins
- Freedom Riders: A Primary Source Exploration of the Struggle for Racial Justice by Heather E. Schwartz
- Inspiring Stories of Sportsmanship by Brad Herzog
- Hot Dog! Eleanor Roosevelt Throws a Picnic by Leslie Kimmelman, illustrated by Victor Juhasz
- It’s Raining! by Gail Gibbons
- Little Melba and Her Big Trombone by Katheryn Russell-‐Brown, illustrated by Frank Morrison
- Malcolm Little: The Boy Who Grew Up to Become Malcolm X by Ilyasah Shabazz, illustrated by AG Ford
- Noodle Magic by Roseanne Greenfield Thong, illustrated by Meilo So
- Phillip Reid Saves the Statue of Freedom by Steven Sellers Lapham and Eugene Walton, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie
- Pure Grit: How American World War II Nurses Survived Battle and Prison Camp in the Pacific by Mary Cronk Farrell
- Queen Victoria’s Bathing Machine by Gloria Whelan, illustrated by Nancy Carpenter
- Schools of Hope: How Julius Rosenwald Helped Change African American Education by Norman H. Finkelstein
- Searching for Sarah Rector: The Richest Black Girl in America by Tonya Bolden
- Strike! The Farm Worker’s Fight for Their Rights by Larry Dane Brimner
- Summoning the Phoenix: Poems and Prose about Chinese Musical Instruments by Emily Jiang, illustrated by April Chu
- The Family Romanov: Murder, Rebellion, and the Fall of Imperial Russia by Candace Fleming
- The Girl from the Tar Paper School: Barbara Rose Johns and the Advent of the Civil Rights Movement by Teri Kanefield
- The Griffin and the Dinosaur: How Adrienne Mayor Discovered a Fascinating Link Between Myth and Science by Marc Aronson and Adrienne Mayor, illustrated by Chris Muller
- The Kite That Bridged Two Nations: Homan Walsh and the First Niagara Suspension Bridge by Alexis O’Neill, illustrated by Terry Widener
- The Right Word: Roget and His Thesaurus by Jen Bryant, illustrated by Melissa Sweet
- Vulture Verses: Love Poems for the Unloved by Diane Lang, illustrated by Lauren Gallegos
- Voices from the March on Washington by J. Patrick Lewis and George Ella Lyon
- Weeds Find a Way by Cynthia Jenson-‐Elliot, illustrated by Carolyn Fisher