1. Theodor Seuss
Geisel Award
a.k.a. Dr. Seuss
(March 2, 1904 – September 24, 1991)
“So the writer who breeds
more words than he needs, is
making a chore for the reader
who reads.” ~ Dr. Seuss

2. In honor of Dr. Seuss for his creativity and
imagination in motivating children to read.

3. Purpose of Award:
To celebrate the most distinguished
American books for
beginning readers
(Pre-K through Grade 2).

4. Why is this award important ?
Books that are chosen:
Encourage and support beginning
readers.
Motivate young children to read.
Create a positive and successful
reading experience from start to finish.

5. Facts:
Given each year to an author and
illustrator of a book published in the
United States during the preceding year.
The award was established in 2004 and
first presented in January of 2006.
The winner receives a bronze medal.
Honor books receive certificates.

6. Book Criteria:
Subject matter must be intriguing.
May or may not contain short chapters.
New words should be added slowly
enough to make learning them a positive
experience.
Words should be repeated to ensure
knowledge retention.

7. Book Criteria (cont.):
Sentences must be simple and
straightforward.
Must be a minimum of 24 pages but no
longer than 96 pages.
Illustrations demonstrate the story being
told.
Plot advances from one page to the next.

8. Theodor Seuss Geisel
Award Books
2011 Medal Winner:
Bink & Gollie
Written by
Kate DiCamillo

9. Theodor Seuss Geisel
Award Books
2011 Honor Books:

10. Past Medal Winners:

11. Past Honor Books:

12. Resources:
ALSC’s Theodor Seuss Geisel Award
http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/alsc/awardsgrants/bookmedia/
geiselaward/index.cfm
Dr. Seuss Biography
http://www.biography.com/articles/Dr-Seuss-9479638
Seussville
http://www.seussville.com/main.php?section=events&eventID=general
Book Covers
http://www.flr.follett.com