Trumbull Author's Book Finalist for Children's Literature Award

Trumbull author and educator Frances Gilbert has been selected as a finalist for the Children’s Literature Independently Published Principals’ Award (CLIPPA) for her book, Today the Teacher Changed our Seats. It is one of just 10 books selected as finalists for the CLIPPA, which will be announced on Oct. 1.

The CLIPPA honors outstanding children’s books that offer fun, learning and creativity and were self-published by independent authors. Entries were judged on originality, learning quality and use of language standards by a judging committee comprising nine elementary school principals, educators and authors from across the country.

Today the Teacher Changed our Seats is a read-to or read-aloud book for younger children. It is a story that teaches the mathematical concept of grouping while addressing a child’s fear of being excluded and teaches children how they can resolve problems.

Gilbert, who teaches middle school, is author of several other children’s books and stories for adults. The book is illustrated by Ben Quensel.

The CLIPPA is sponsored by Kabuki Helps, a community of parents and teachers committed to making learning fun.

“We created these awards to recognize and encourage independent authors, who face many challenges in getting their stories into the hands of young readers,” said Lisa Hayes, president of Kabuki Helps. “There is a long, honored tradition of self-publishing in children’s literature. In fact, some of our greatest children’s books, like The Tale of Peter Rabbit, would have not existed if the author had waited for a traditional publisher to accept them.”

The two award winners’ books will be featured on the Kabuki Helps website and the authors will receive a variety of cash and other prizes, including support in promoting their books. For more about the prizes and a list of the judges, visit www.clippaward.com.

Based off a release from Kabuki Helps.