FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 7, 2007
CONTACT: Martyn Beeny, martyn.beeny@state.sd.us, (605) 773-8161

South Dakota State Historical Society’s great year for books continues

PIERRE, S. D.—The South Dakota State Historical Society’s The Discontented Gopher: A Prairie Tale is a finalist for a Mom’s Choice Award in the Chapter Books: Age 5-8 category. 

Nationally recognized, the Mom’s Choice Awards are presented each year to family-friendly books demonstrating stellar and notable design and content by the Just for Mom Foundation. Carolyn Digby Conahan’s warm and endearing illustrations have lent L. Frank Baum’s Aberdeen-based children’s story an exciting new look—one that has captured the eyes of these national judges.

The winner of each category will be announced at a gala event in Times Square, New York City, in October. The South Dakota State Historical Society Press will be represented at the black-tie awards ceremony. 

“This is a wonderful opportunity for us,” said Nancy Tystad Koupal, director of the Press. “To be a part of a major national awards ceremony is a sign of the progress we are making, and The Discontented Gopher is a further indication of the quality of books the Press is publishing.”

The Discontented Gopher tells the story of Zikky the Gopher, who is granted riches beyond his wildest dreams. Seeking adventure, he puts himself in danger at every turn, before ultimately achieving hard-earned wisdom.

The Discontented Gopher is available for $14.95 plus shipping and tax. It can be purchased from most bookstores or directly from the Press by visiting www.sdshspress.com, www.discontentedgopher.com or calling (605) 773-6009.  Visit www.momschoiceawards.com for more information about the annual awards.