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Amber Brown Grant

Paula DanzigerPaula Danziger was one of the most beloved figures in the world of children’s books, a writer who was both a fearless truth teller and an uproariously funny personality. Paula loved to celebrate--to celebrate books, to celebrate children, to celebrate getting books and children together. One way she did that was by speaking in schools all across the country.

When Paula passed away in 2004--much too young at the age of 59--the SCBWI wanted to find a way to commemorate her life and good work. It occurred to us that there was no better way to honor her than to help carry on the celebration of connecting books and kids that happens when writers and illustrators come to schools to speak, as Paula did so often. That is why we have created the Amber Brown grant (named in honor of Paula’s most beloved character). It’s a way to continue connecting children and the authors and illustrators who create for them.

This grant is offered in the spirit of Paula’s joyous approach to life, and we hope that every school that uses it to bring an author or illustrator to speak to their students will make that day a true celebration--a celebration of books, of literacy, of children, of life.

Each year two schools will be rewarded with an all expense paid visit by a well respected children’s author or illustrator.  Additionally, one runner up school will be selected and rewarded with books valued at $250.00.

Some of the past authors visits include:

E.B. Lewis at Lilla G. Frederick Pilot Middle School in Dorchester, Massachusetts

George Shannon to the First Place School in Seattle, Washington




Pam Muñoz Ryan at the Lakewood School in Carpentersville, Illinois 


Eligibility
Any school with the desire and commitment to enrich their curriculum with a guest author or illustrator is eligible to apply. However, this grant is primarily focused on bringing an author or illustrator to a school that cannot or has not been able to afford this privilege.

Grant Amount
Two schools will be rewarded with an all expense paid visit by a well respected children’s author or illustrator. The chosen schools will also receive a $250 stipend to assist in creating this memorable event to celebrate reading, learning, and children’s literature and $250 worth of books by the visiting author. Additionally, one runner up school will be selected and rewarded with books valued at $250.00.

Requirements
Applicants must fill out the application in its entirety and submit it before the deadline (see below). All applications must include a statement of support from your principal.

Deadline
Applications may be submitted between November 1st and April 1st. Send applications to:

      SCBWI Amber Brown Grant
      8271 Beverly Blvd.
      Los Angeles, CA 90048

The winning school will be determined by a select committee of published SCBWI members. Announcements about the grant recipient will be published in the SCBWI Bulletin and on the SCBWI website, blog and social networks.

To view and print Adobe Acrobat files, you will need the latest version of Adobe® Acrobat® Reader® Software.

Trouble with the form? Call the SCBWI Executive Office at (323) 782-1010, or email
webmaster@scbwi.org.

 Photo of Paula Danziger ©
Sigrid Estrada, courtesy Penguin Young Readers Group. Used with permission.