High praise for a local author.
Christy Obalek’s children’s book, “The Thing About Birds” has been named a finalist for the Elizabeth Mrazik-Cleaver Canadian Picture Book Award, given to a Canadian illustrator in recognition of outstanding artistic talent.
10 finalists were selected from 134 books submitted by publishers to the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) Canada, a non-profit organization committed to bringing books and children together as a way to foster understanding and friendship between children of different cultures.
Written and illustrated by Christy Obalek, “The Thing About Birds” was published by Heritage House in September, 2025, and follows friends Ellie and Ollie as they try to figure out what makes a bird a bird.
The winner of the Canadian Picture Book Award will be announced at the IBBY Canada annual meeting of members on Saturday, March 28. The recipient receives a cheque for $1,000 dollars and a certificate.
