And the WINNER of the 2008 Independent Bookseller of the Year is . . .

. . . ALEX UHL of A Whale of a Tale Children's Bookshoppe in Irvine, California. Let the confetti fly! Congratulations, Alex! From all that we have heard and seen of you, we can't think of anyone more deserving to be next in line for this title.

Alex's extraordinary shoppe was featured last week on our blog, and if you didn't get a chance then, please do swim on over to their website and take a look. I can't think when I've seen such a line-up of celebrated authors and dignitaries.

We'll be interviewing Alex later during the next week or two, as she needs time for her **crown fitting** before the coronation. And, we'll have a few last words from our beloved outgoing queen, Kris Vreeland of Vroman's in Pasadena!

I can tell you that when I made the call to Alex today, she said she was "terribly appreciative and overwhelmed!" We are so delighted to be arranging a special dinner out for her and a date of her choice. This dedicated bookseller has not had a single-day-off since last December! She works seven days a week. Omigod. She considered her trip to BEA this weekend a "vacation".

So, stay tuned for more about Alex . .

Speaking of winners! Hope you saved some confetti because it is time to let 'er rip for SUSAN SCHMID who is our READER WINNER in the drawing for those that nominated indies this month. All of you that made nominations were put in the drawing, not just those that were picked for features. We really appreciated everyone's input! Susan nominated the Learning Post in Urbandale, Iowa, which we blogged about on May 14th. Susan will be the recipient of our biggest prize ever-- ten children's books, a Shrinking Violet mug, and assorted book bag fun! So happy for you, Susan! I'll email you privately to get your address.

And, yes, we absolutely will post the SCBWI Summer Nationals fAiRy gOdsIsTeRs Grant recipient here, too. We are finalizing the details of that now. What an exciting month this has been!

Speaking of Cinderellas and footwear, no one yet has correctly put the Converse sneaker or strappy sandal on the right person. (See BEA post) I'm just saying-- there could be a prize out there waiting to be had.

Giddily,

Mary Hershey