The 2017 Charlotte Zolotow Award

Summary: Alan the alligator, known for scaring jungle critters with his big, scary teeth, wakes up to find his false teeth missing. Without them, his fearsome reputation crumbles. Can Alan discover a new way to belong in the jungle, or will he remain toothless and timid? Join Alan on a playful journey of self-discovery and unexpected friendships, where he learns that there's more to him than just his teeth. Will he find a new talent or remain the jungle's gentle giant?

Summary: Thunder Boy Jr. dreams of a name that captures his own adventures, not just his father's legacy. As he imagines names like Touch the Clouds and Not Afraid of Ten Thousand Teeth, he wonders if he'll ever find one that fits. Just when hope seems lost, his father surprises him with a name that shines as brightly as their bond. Will this new name help him step out of his father's shadow and into his own light? Discover the heartwarming journey of identity and family in this beautifully illustrated tale.

Summary: Dive into the enigmatic world of the giant squid, a creature as large as whales yet hidden in the ocean's depths. Scientists piece together its story from tantalizing clues: scars on whales, broken beaks, and inky escapes. These fragments were all we had until a groundbreaking film captured the squid in its natural habitat. This nonfiction picture book invites you to explore the mysterious life of this elusive giant, blending visual and poetic storytelling. What secrets does the deep sea hold, and what more can we discover about this hidden titan of the ocean?