Show Me Readers Award
Each year, Missouri schoolchildren in grades 1-3 vote for their favorite book from a list of nominated titles. The Show Me Readers Award is awarded to the author of this book by the Missouri Association of School Librarians.
Find these books and more online at http://catalog.coolcat.org
2012
by Major Brian Dennis
The story of a wild dog who befriended Marine Major Brian Dennis in Iraq, and, when they were separated, trekked seventy miles through the desert winter to rejoin his friend.
2011
by Kirby Larson
Based on a true story, Two Bobbies takes place in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina when many pets were lost or abandoned. A dog and cat wander together through the devastated city and miraculously survive hunger, floods and other dangers. When they are finally taken to an animal shelter, the volunteers discover that the cat is blind and could not have survived without the dog's help. Although their owner or owners are never found, the two friends, re-named Bob Cat and Bobbi, find a new home and a happy ending to their ordeal. The story includes an authors' note and a photograph of the real Bob Cat and Bobbi.
2010
by Mary Casanova
A stray dog moves into George's formerly peaceful home, dazzling the man and woman of the house with lively tricks and antics that just leave George exhausted.
2009
by Eileen Spinelli
A cat gives birth to a litter of kittens in an abandoned building that catches fire while she is out searching for food.
2008
by Jennifer Armstrong
When the Broadway Fire House acquires a motorized fire engine, Magnus the fire horse is not ready to retire.
2007
by Lola M. Schaefer
Based on the true story of a bird of prey's survival after being struck by a poacher's arrow.
2006
2005
by Coleen Salley
A retelling of a classic tale in which a well-intentioned young possum continually takes his mother's instructions much too literally.
2004
by Stephanie Calmenson
After the principal of P.S. 88 is turned into a frog by a bumbling magician, the frog bargains for the chance to act as principal until Mr. Bundy returns from his "family emergency."
2003
by Libby Phillips Meggs
A homeless cat spends several seasons trying to survive the elements until at last a suburban family adopts him.
2002
by Helen Lester
All his classmates make fun of Rodney because he can't pronounce his name, but it is Rodney's speech impediment that drives away the class bully.
2001
by Jerdine Nolen
A farmer's young daughter shares numerous adventures with the dragon that she raises from infancy.
2000
by Janell Cannon
A young python does not want to grow slow and boring like the older snakes he sees in the tropical jungle where he lives.
1999
Darla doesn't want a dirty dog around her Dairy Delight, but Duke patiently tries every tactic to convince her that her shop is his home.
1998
by Marsha Arnold
As the Name Day celebration approaches, a young kitten tries to deserve a noble name, by following the path of the beautiful Bengal tiger.
1997
After losing running, climbing, throwing, and burping competitions to her obnoxious older brother, a young girl makes a wish on a falling star.
1996
A forgetful boy gets himself into trouble when he repeats what each person he meets on the road says to him.
1995
by Robert D. San Souci Illustrated by Brian Pinkney
Unhappy with her life at home, Sukey receives kindness and wealth from Mama Jo the mermaid.
