The Evelyn Thurman Young Readers Book Award is given to honor the memory of former WKU librarian, Evelyn Thurman, who made significant contributions to children’s librarianship and literacy during her 25 years of service. To learn more about Evelyn and her contributions, please visit her biography page.

The 2007 Recipient of the Evelyn Thurman Young Readers Book Award is Albert E. Bell.

Books eligible for the Evelyn Thurman Young Readers Book Award fall into two categories, to be awarded on alternating years: children’s picture/early reader books (grades K-4) and books for older readers (grades 5-8). Books must be: a) written or illustrated by a Kentucky author or illustrator; or b) have a significant Kentucky-related theme. A Kentucky author or illustrator is defined as an author/illustrator meeting one or more of the following qualifications: a) a native-born Kentuckian; b) an author/illustrator living in Kentucky; c) an author/illustrator whose permanent home address is Kentucky but who does not at present live in Kentucky.

The winner will visit WKU on February 16, 2008, for a Super Saturday session, sponsored by the Center for Gifted Studies. The award winner will give a presentation and/or discuss the writing process with students (grades 1-7), who will be given a chance to ask questions and interact with the author.

The recipient will be awarded a monetary prize and a certificate at a reception.