Released August 5, 2008

COLLEGE STATION, Texas – The "Growing Good Kids – Excellence in Children's Literature Award" has been presented to four books by the American Horticultural Society and the Texas AgriLife Extension Service’s National Junior Master Gardener program.

The award recognizes children's books that effectively promote an appreciation for gardening, plants and the environment, according to Randy Seagraves, Junior Master Gardener national curriculum coordinator.

The winning books are: “The Old Tree” by Ruth Brown, “If I Were a Tree” by Dar Hosta, “The Runaway Garden” by Jeffery L. Schatzer and “Mother Earth and Her Children” by Sibylle von Olfers.

“We hope this award brings new recognition and a wider audience of young readers to these very deserving titles," said Seagraves.

Such books help bridge the gap for children who may not be as connected with the outdoors as in the past, according to the horticulture society.

"With studies showing a growing disconnect between children and nature, books that inspire curiosity and encourage exploration of the outdoors for young readers are invaluable tools for bridging this divide," said Stephanie Jutila, the society's education programs manager.

Award nominations for books published in 2008 will be accepted now through April 24, 2009. For more information, visit http://www.jmgkids.us or contact Seagraves at 979-845-8565 or seagraves@tamu.edu.

--30--

http://agnews.tamu.edu/showstory.php?id=633

Contact: Randy Seagraves, 979-845-8565, seagraves@tamu.edu