The Johnson County Library will host a reception for Elizabeth C. Bunce on Sunday, March 22 from 2  pm  to 4 pm at the Lackman Neighborhood Library. She’ll be honored for receiving the first ever American Library Association’s William C. Morris Award for her debut young adult novel, Curse Dark as Gold (Arthur A. Levine Books, March 208). Come listen to Elizabeth talk about Curse, enjoy refreshments and buy a copy of her amazing book.

“At the dawn of the Industrial Revolution, Charlotte Miller strikes a bargain with the malevolent Jack Spinner, who can transform straw into gold, to save her family’s mill.   With masterly writing and vivid characterization and setting, Bunce weaves a powerfully seductive tale of triumph over evil.”

The William C. Morris YA Debut Award celebrates impressive new voices in young adult literature that illuminate the teen experience and enrich the lives of readers through excellence, demonstrated by:

• Compelling, high quality writing and/or illustration
• The integrity of the work as a whole
• Its proven or potential appeal to a wide range of teen readers

“Bunce has crafted a story that superbly embodies the criteria for this award. Her work is compelling and has broad teen appeal,” said Chair Bonnie Kunzel. “Thoughtful reflection and spirited discussion characterized this outstanding committee’s work as its members selected a shortlist that honors the influence of William C. Morris on the field of young adult publishing.”

Congratulations, Elizabeth!!