"Witch's Brew," a children's book by Chicagoland-based author Megan Dagnino, is a finalist in the Children's Novelty and Gift Book category in the prestigious 13th annual International Book Awards competition, hosted by the American Book Fest.
LEMONT, Ill., July 6, 2022 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- "Witch's Brew," a children's book by Chicagoland-based author Megan Dagnino, is a finalist in the Children's Novelty and Gift Book category in the prestigious 13th annual International Book Awards competition, hosted by the American Book Fest.
"The 2022 International Book Awards received thousands of entries from all over the world. By placing in this year's awards, you have surpassed 80% of your fellow entrants," Jeffrey Keen, president and chief executive officer of American Book Fest, said to Dagnino in an email. More than 400 winners and finalists were announced June 3 in over 90 categories for both mainstream and independent titles.
"Witch's Brew" was published in August 2021 by Fig Factor Media and illustrated by Daniella Turano. Geared to children ages 2 to 10, Dagnino uses the friendly witch, Eldora, and her adorable and curious Goldendoodle pup, Mae, to spread Halloween cheer and encourage readers to create their own special "brews" by assigning silly names to 10 foods presented in the book. For example, bat brains are raisins and spiderwebs are popcorn.
"I am honored and humbled that the International Book Awards chose 'Witch's Brew' to be a finalist and beyond thrilled that they see this book in all its glory on that level," said Dagnino. "I have such pride in 'Witch's Brew' and this fuels my excitement in spreading it to the world!"
Dagnino, a former oncology nurse and a school nurse, said the book also has an interactive element with a special video via a QR code in the book. In the guise of Eldora, Dagnino creates her "brew" and encourage the viewers to help her add and stir ingredients. Dagnino concocted the perfect magical recipe counting book to get children to create life long memories by using their imaginations.
Because the book is a finalist, the honor brings a level of validity and solidarity that cannot be obtained any other way, she said.
"This book brings so much joy to children, families and classrooms that if I can spread that joy to more, all the grit and hard work is worth it," she said. "There's nothing that warms my heart more than to see children's eyes light up and their imaginations start to sparkle when they read/do the 'Witch's Brew.'"
"Witch's Brew" has been extremely successful since it launched. In 2021, "Witch's Brew" made the Amazon best seller list in multiple categories, including Children Interactive Adventure Books, Children Custom and Traditions, and Cooking with Kids.
"Witch's Brew" also was featured on WGN Chicago and Fox News Chicago. Dagnino has done podcast and radio interviews, school and bookstore readings, birthday and Halloween parties to fundraisers and Girl Scout events.
"My favorite story is from a mom who messaged me saying that her little girl sleeps with her book every night," Dagnino said. "It just melts my heart that the children get such a connection with 'Witch's Brew.' The feedback and reviews have been amazing and this positivity of being a finalist adds such momentum in moving forward to create more magic in 'Witch's Brew!'"
"Witch's Brew" is available on Amazon in hardcover, paperback and e-book formats. For more information, visit http://www.witchsbrewbook.com/.
About "Witch's Brew":
"Witch's Brew" is a delightful interactive experience geared towards families with children ages 2-10. While reading an engaging lighthearted rhyme, the children are also counting their favorite snacks and creating a "spooky" and delicious treat! As they listen to the tale, they use their imaginations to add the individual elements of the snack to the "brew," which assists in not only holding their attention, but also creating anticipation for the next element. The 10 individual ingredients make this an interactive counting book for our youngest readers, but young and old alike will enjoy the tale and creative activity. A book and interactive experience that will spark any child's creativity and leaning all while creating a yummy treat! For more information about the book, visit http://www.witchsbrewbook.com/.
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SOURCE Megan Dagnino
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