"Fearless Bill"

[Lisa]

Most children are afraid of something, whether it a monster under the bed or a stranger at the store. G.K. Chesterston said "Fairytales are more than true; not because they tell us that dragons can be beaten."

This book award is named for my father, the only person I know that isn't afraid of anything. Fearless Bill will be given to a children's picture book, published in the past 10 years, that tells a story of a child overcoming their fear. The book must clearly define the fear and tell of how that fear was defeated.

Please complete your nomination by Monday, October 13, 2008.

[Cherina]

Roller Coaster

Facing a roller coaster for the first time can be a scary thing. The vertical plummet and the upside-down loops intimidate even the most experienced riders. The character in the story works up enough nerve to ride the roller coaster. Even though she is terrified at first, the little girl confronts her fear and ends up absolutely loving the ride.

This is a wonderful book about confronting your fears. The story demonstrates that everyone gets scared and motivates children to face their worries head on. The illustrations and text work together in the book to simulate the movement of the roller coaster. Readers can actually get a sense of being on the ride. This story is fun for children and adults alike.

[Jacqueline]

The Scaredy Cats
This is a good book about being afraid of everything and not being able to experience the good things in life, which really goes with this award well.

[Loray]

Where's God When I am Scared

[Jaylynn]

Froggy Learns to Swim

"Frogs are supposed to be great swimmers. 'Not me!' says Froggy, who's afraid of the water. But with a little encouragement, some practice, and the help of a silly song or two, Froggy develops into an expert frog-kicker!"

[Brandin]

Some Things Are Scary
Book about children facing everyday fears. Really practical to discuss fears with children.

[Ryan]

Harry and the Dinosaurs Say "Raahh!"

This book is a great book for helping children how to overcome a fear. In this book, Harry is going to the dentist with his dinosaurs. The one dinosaur is extremely nervous because he has a lot of teeth and he is worried they will drill on them. By pushing a magic button, he is able to grow big and overcome these fears. This book is great for children and can help them overcome fears of the dentist or anything related.

[Amanda]

100th Day Worries
Jessica is a worrier. Now is very anxious about what to bring into her classroom for the 100th day of school. She spends a lot of time fretting over what to bring. With help from her family she ends up having a great idea!

[Ashley]

When Addie Was Scared

This book talks about a girl who is afraid of everything, even things that aren't even there. It isn't till a hawk tries to attack her grandma's chicken that she gets the courage to stand up against it. From that day on she knows that she will have that inner courage if she ever needs it.

[Lisa]

And the Winner Is.......

Every book nominated for this award was a pleasure to read. However the winning book touched a special place in my heart. As a mother of a worrier I could feel the stress that the main character felt. I know first hand how a little thing can make your life seem uncontrollable. My decision was tough, but I wanted to make sure that I chose a book that the main character was able to resolve his/her problem and what she learned from it. As Ralph Fletcher said, "Your ending is important-it's the last thing your reader will read."

My choice for the "Fearless Bill" award was 100th Day Worries written by Margery Cuyler. This book was nominated by Amanda Mitchell.