Delighted to learn that MANATEE SUMMER has been chosen for the 2024-2025 Sunshine State Young Readers Award program. And in the fine company of lots of wonderful middle-grade and YA books!
MANATEE SUMMER grew out of memories of my childhood in central Florida, where the summer storms come sudden and strong and I often saw manatees swimming in the canal that ran through my neighborhood. It's special and surreal to have the book recognized in my home state, which plays such a huge role in the story.
And speaking of places that hold a special place in my heart: MANATEE SUMMER was also a 2023-2024 Vermont Golden Dome Book Award nominee!
Much gratitude to the educators and librarians who curate these state reading lists and help kids discover new stories.