‘I Grew Up On A Farm' nominated for Charlotte Award

Warwick — “I Grew Up On A Farm,” by Alan K. Lewis and illustrated by Bob Fletcher has been nominated for a 2008 Charlotte Award by the New York State Reading Association. Published by Keene Publishing of Warwick, the children’s book is one of ten books in the primary reader category nominated for the award. Named for the main character in E.B. White’s “Charlotte’s Web,” the purpose of the Charlotte Award is to encourage students to read outstanding literature and ultimately become life-long readers. Additionally, the award recognizes the authors and illustrators of such literature. Students in New York State will read titles on the ballot in three categories n primary, intermediate and young adult — and vote for their favorites. In 2006, Charlotte Award entries received 14,000 votes from children all over the state. Award votes for 2008 are due by April 15 of next year and winners will receive their awards at the 42nd Annual New York State Reading Association Statewide Conference in March 2009. “I Grew Up On A Farm” is an autobiographical sketch of Lewis’ life on a working farm in Middletown during the 1950s. The author currently lives outside of Middletown with his wife, two children and his Airedale, Spencer. He works as an assistant principal at a large elementary school located just one mile from where he grew up on the farm featured in this book. “Alan Lewis brings back memories of a time gone by, before Nintendo, before instant messaging and before microwave ovens,” states Diane Tinney, publisher. “Uniquely illustrated with black and white photographs expanded to full color drawings, this delightful children’s book engages readers of all ages.” The New York State Reading Association is an affiliate of the International Reading Association comprised of more than 30 local reading councils having a total membership of over 6,500 educators from across New York State. The organization includes classroom teachers, librarians, reading specialists, parents, college educators and researchers. Teachers and librarians can find the online ballot for the Charlotte Award nominees at www.nysreading.org/Awards/charlotte/index.html. For review copies of “I Grew Up On A Farm,” to request a visit from Alan Lewis or Bob Fletcher, log on to www.keenebooks.com, call Diane Tinney at 987-7750 or e-mail dtinney@keenebooks.com.