In conjunction with the Library of Congress Center for the Book, The Colorado Book Awards annually celebrates the accomplishments of Colorado’s outstanding authors, editors, illustrators, and photographers. Finalists were selected in May, and reading events were held at libraries across Colorado Springs. The winners were announced at a celebration event at The Penrose House Convention Center in Colorado Springs on Saturday, June 10, 2023, where “Swim, Jim!” received the gold medal in the Children’s Literature category.

“Swim, Jim!” was published by Paula Wiseman Books/Simon & Schuster in 2022 and is Kaz Windness’s debut written and illustrated picture book for children. Watch the acceptance speech here: 

Kaz’s second book with the publisher, “Bitsy Bat, School Star,” just released on June 6, 2023, and is an Independent Publisher’s top picture book pick, a Barnes & Noble exclusive edition, and received a Kirkus star review. Visit Kaz at www.WindnessBooks.com.  

Follow Kaz on all your favorite social media: https://linktr.ee/KazWindness

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