UK Alum Wins Evelyn Thurman Young Readers Book Award

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 28, 2015) — University of Kentucky theatre and advertising alumna Alecia Whitaker is the recipient of the ninth Evelyn Thurman Young Readers Book Award for her book "Wildflower." The award, presented by Western Kentucky University (WKU) Libraries, recognizes excellence in young adult books that share a story based on a Kentucky related theme or those that are written or illustrated by a Kentucky author or illustrator.

The Thurman Young Readers Book Award is presented annually and was created to honor the memory of former WKU librarian Evelyn Thurman, who made significant contributions to children's librarianship and literacy throughout her 25 years of service to the university and community.

"Wildflower" is about a young 16-year-old girl who is discovered by a country music label while she's performing in her family's bluegrass band. Throughout the book she must learn to stay true to her roots while being a star on the rise living in the big city of Nashville, Tennessee. "Wildflower," the first book in a series of three, explores the importance of being yourself and following your dreams.

Alecia Whitaker grew up on a small farm in the state of Kentucky, but now resides in New York City with her husband and sons. "Wildflower" is Whitaker's second novel. She has also published various essays, the one-act play "Becoming Woman" funded by a grant from the Kentucky Foundation for Women, and her first novel "The Queen of Kentucky."

Aside from her success as a writer, Whitaker has appeared on TV numerous times, including appearances on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" and "The Big Idea," as well as turns as a contestant on the game shows "Deal or No Deal" and "Let's Ask America." Whitaker is also the host of a twice weekly web show called "The Baby Book" that talks about her real life experiences of being a mom in New York City.

Whitaker will receive the Thurman Award at a luncheon in November, where she will receive a monetary award and commemorative plaque. During her stay in Kentucky, Whitaker will visit local schools as part of the Southern Kentucky Book Fest's "Fall into Books" program.

MEDIA CONTACT: Whitney Hale, 859-257-8716; whitney.hale@uky.edu