Children’s literacy is one of the most important issues facing our society today.

According to the Canadian Children’s Literacy Foundation, more than one million Canadian children have below-grade-level reading skills; in addition, 27 per cent of children starting Grade 1 lack some of the developmental skills they need to learn to read.

We know that healthy societies are reading societies. It’s not just about children in school, either: it’s about adults who can go on to get better jobs, bolster the economy, and, of course, lead more enriched lives.

Still, it all starts with the kids.

With that, the Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards, which honour excellence in children’s literature, have announced their 2023 winners. Three BC authors have taken home top prizes:

• Gold Medal in the Cultural Experience Category: Oolichan Moon by Samantha Beynon, illustrated by Lucy Trimble
• Gold Medal in the Activity Book: Educational, Science, History Category: The Science and Superpowers of Seaweed by Amanda Swinimer 
• Silver Medal in the Activity Book: Educational, Science, History Category: A Kid’s Guide to Plants of the Pacific Northwest by Philippa Joly

The full list of winners (AKA a reading list for your baby/niece/nephew/godchild/student) can be found here.