Geisel awards

The Theodor Seuss Geisel award, most often referred to simply as the Geisel award, is relatively new.  First given in 2006, this award recognizes the author and illustrator of the best beginning readers published during the prior year. 

Beginning readers are books for children who are just learning to read.  A classic example of a beginning reader, besides much of Dr. Seuss’ work, would be the Dick and Jane books (See spot. See spot run.).  This category of literature also include books with a few sentences per page and even ones with short chapters.  A few are even graphic novels!

Since the Geisel was first awarded in 2006 there have been 35 books recognized (8 winners and 27 honors).  I have read all of them – mostly this year.   I liked them all, but there were a few that I gave a 5 star rating to on GoodReads. 

Mercy Watson Goes for a Ride by Kate DiCamillo     

Benny and Penny in the Big No-No! by Geoffrey Hayes

Up, Tall and High by Ethan Long

I Broke My Trunk! by Mo Willems

Little Mouse Gets Ready by Jeff Smith

We Are in a Book!by Mo Willems

See my GoodReads ratings for the Geisel award by clicking here. 
To see all of the winners and honors listed by year, or to find out more about this award, check out the official website here.