2012 Judge: Barbara O’Connor

Barbara O’Connor draws on her Southern roots to create middle grade books, including The Small Adventure of Popeye and Elvis, The Fantastic Secret of Owen Jester, and How to Steal a Dog. Her books have been recognized for many distinctions, including winning several state children’s choice awards (including her home state of South Carolina), Parents Choice Gold Award, and ALA Notables. Currently living in cold New England (where no one eats boiled peanuts or says, “I like to died”), she spends her days writing, visiting schools for author programs and workshops, and wasting time on the internet. Her latest novel, On the Road to Mr. Mineo’s, will be published by FSG/Macmillan in Fall 2012. Learn more about Barbara at www.barbaraoconnor.com.

Filed under: 2012, Judge