TWO MICHIGAN BOOKSTORES WIN THE 2013 WNBA PANNELL AWARD

The Women’s National Book Association is proud to announce the winners of the 2013 WNBA Pannell Award given annually since 1983 to two bookstores that excel in contributing to their communities in ways that bring books and young people together. The winner in the General Bookstore category is Nicola’s Books of Ann Arbor, MI; and the Children’s Specialty Store category winner is The Bookbug of Kalamazoo, MI.

A jury of five book industry professionals deliberated for four weeks, then selected the winners based on creativity, responsiveness to community needs and an understanding of young readers. Jurors complimented all of the nominees for valuable contributions they make to their communities. The two winners, however, were cited for their “over and above” commitment and “partnering skills to benefit children, families, and the community at large” (Nicola’s Books); as well as having a “terrific history of civic engagement, actively engaging in all aspects of the local community to stay relevant and of service to children and their families” (Bookbug).

In addition to WNBA, the Pannell Award is underwritten by a generous gift from Penguin Young Readers Group. Each winning store will receive a check for $1,000 and framed original art donated this year by James Dean of Pete the Cat fame (HarperCollins) and Susan Stockdale, author and illustrator of Stripes of All Types (Peachtree).  Presentation of the awards will be at the Children’s Book and Author Breakfast on May 31st at BookExpo America in New York.