Lyons Wins Christopher Award for "Tiara's Hat Parade"

Raleigh-based author Kelly Starling Lyons was honored with a Christopher Award for Tiara’s Hat Parade (Kindergarten and up, Albert Whitman & Company). The book, illustrated by Nicole Tadgell, Chesapeake, Va., is one of 12 for adults and young people by 17 authors and illustrators recognized as the Awards mark their 72nd year. The author and illustrator join creators of 10 winning TV/cable and feature films.

After the family hat shop closes down when a new store opens that sells cheaper ones, "Tiara's Hat Parade" tells a tale about a spirited African American girl with a gift for storytelling who develops a creative plan to reignite her mother’s passion for hat-making.

The #ChristopherAwards were created in 1949 to celebrate authors, illustrators, writers, producers and directors whose work “affirms the highest values of the human spirit,” and reflects The Christophers' motto, “It’s better to light one candle than to curse the darkness,” said Tony Rossi, director of communications.

Kelly Starling Lyons is a children’s book author whose mission is to center Black heroes, celebrate family, friendship and heritage and show all kids the storyteller they hold inside. Her 12+ award-winning titles span easy readers, picture books and chapter books, nonfiction and fiction, standalone and series. In addition to "Tiara's Hat Parade," a Read Across America recommended read, her latest picture books are Caldecott Honor Book, "Going Down Home with Daddy;" Bank Street Best selection, "Sing a Song: How Lift Every Voice and Sing Inspired Generations;" Junior Library Guild title, "Dream Builder: The Story of Architect Philip Freelon. In addition she has written "Jada Jones," a chapter book series, and "Ty's Travels," her easy reader series. She is a founding member of The Brown Bookshelf, presents at schools, libraries and conferences nationwide and is the 2021 Piedmont Laureate for the Triangle area of North Carolina.

Known for creating realistic yet whimsical characters and scenes, Nicole Tadgell’s work has been extensively honored. Born in Detroit, Michigan, art has always been both an escape. Frequent moves challenged her natural shyness, especially in new schools where she was the only black kid in class. “I always had pencils and paper nearby. It helped me make sense of the world around me or create imaginary worlds to live in for a while,” she says. She continues to bring stories to life while advocating for diversity in children’s literature.

The Christophers, a nonprofit founded in 1945 by Maryknoll Father James Keller, is rooted in the Judeo-Christian tradition of service to God and humanity. More information about The Christophers is available at www.christophers.org.