Local Author, Meggan Hill and Photographer, Susan M. Graunke
Receive the 2009 New York Book Festival Children's Book Award for
Their Book Nico and Lola

Nico and Lola was announced the first place winner on June 1, 2009.

Barrington, Ill. —June 9 , 2009— Local author Meggan Hill and photographer Susan M. Graunke have won the 2009 New York Book Festival Children’s Book Award for their new picture book, Nico and Lola. The annual competition honors books that deserve greater recognition in the world's publishing capital.

Hill and Graunke are overwhelmed by the feedback they have received for Nico and Lola. In addition to winning the New York Book Festival Award, Nico and Lola was named the Children’s Book Midwest Connections Pick by the Midwest Booksellers Association for May-July 2009.

Meet Meggan Hill, Susan M. Graunke and Lola:

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum Lincoln Park, IL Book reading and signing June 25, 2009 – 11:30am	Barrington 4th of July Celebration Barrington, IL "Lunch with Lola" Reading and signing July 3, 2009 – 12:00pm
Butterfly Books DePere, WI "Dog Days of Summer with Lola" Reading, Q & A, and signing July 8, 2009 – 11:00am (following puppy camp)	East Dundee Library Dundee, IL Book reading and signing July 9, 2009 – 2:00pm
Barrington Area Library Barrington, IL Read to Rover – Reading and signing July 11, 2009 – 11:00am	Lambs Farm Libertyville, IL “Moonlight Moovies” Book reading and signing August 14, 2009 – 6:30pm

The public is invited to attend these free, family friendly events. “We are so excited that the books message is resonating with readers. Meeting with children and families who love the book has been the real reward for us,” said Hill.

About Nico and Lola

ISBN 978-0-615-23040-5, Publisher: Genuine Prints, LLC

In this touching children’s book, a boy named Nico must search his heart for ways to be kind while caring for a little dog named Lola. Tender messages are woven into captivating photographs throughout the story, as a boy and a dog together share kindness.

Every child who learns and shares kindness from a pet has the power to make a difference and make our world a little better place. “It’s a big idea coming from just two little beings we hope will resonate in schools, libraries and homes.” A book for readers of all ages, this tale reminds each of us we can always be just a little bit kinder in everything we do. A book to read, share and always carry in your heart.

Aboutthe Author - Meggan Hill

Meggan Hill is a graduate of the University of San Diego with a degree in Psychology. She has two young children and cherishes raising them in the presence of their beloved animals.  Hill is passionate about stories which give meaningful messages to young minds and young hearts and believes that kindness can be inspired by anyone, even an adorable, little pug with a "curly-whirly tail." This is her first book.

Nico and Lola still enjoy time together - playing tag, sharing special snacks and taking naps on their favorite blanket. They continue to be the very best kind of friends.

Aboutthe Photographer – Susan M. Graunke

Susan M. Graunke is the owner of Kickapoo Farms in Barrington, Illinois.  She is a graduate of Northern Illinois University and began studying photography in 2006. She is an avid outdoors woman and golfer who lives in Barrington, Illinois with her husband Terence and their pet dogs. The couple has two grown children.

Both author and photographer have lived in Barrington, Illinois, for more than 10 years where they have worked together. Graunke and Hill also offer school visits and presentations. They enjoy encouraging students to explore the worlds of reading and writing. For more information, check their website: www.nicoandlola.com, or contact Michele Kophs, Event Coordinator at 360.597.3432.

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