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Image caption: (R-L): author Gwendolyn Mukes and illustrator Alex Wallace.<\/em><\/p>\n
The Lynn McIntosh Award for Excellence, previously known as the Director\u2019s Award, is presented by the Oklahoma Center for the Book to recognize books of special merit. The award acknowledges a title that transcends traditional categories by addressing subjects of deep significance and historical importance.<\/p>\n
The awarded book, \u201cGwen Didn\u2019t Care,\u201d beautifully illustrated by Alex Wallace, provides a poignant depiction of a day in the life of young Gwen as she navigates the realities of Jim Crow laws during a visit to the Oklahoma City Zoo. Despite the harshness of segregation, the story, told with vibrant and captivating illustrations, offers a powerful lesson on racial equality and historical awareness in an accessible, engaging, and entertaining manner for young readers.<\/p>\n
Gwendolyn Mukes, apart from her writing, is renowned for her role in the historic 1958 Oklahoma City Sit-In Movement alongside Clara Luper. Her transformative work in education and civil rights has made her a celebrated national figure. Upon retiring from education nearly 10 years ago, Gwen became an actress and splits her time between Oklahoma and California. She can be spotted in various commercials, movies, TV shows and print ads.<\/p>\n
This year’s ceremony, held on Saturday, May 11, at the Oklahoma History Center, saw a diverse array of literary talents, with 28 finalists selected from 179 entries. The Oklahoma Book Awards annually celebrate the state’s literary achievements in categories including fiction, non-fiction, children and young adult, poetry, and combined design, illustration, and photography.<\/p>\n