Living the Dream Book Award

The annual “Living the Dream” Book Award recognizes a multicultural children’s book that furthers Dr. King’s dream of a nation where children will “not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.” As part of MCS’ Public School Outreach program, 5th grade students from MCS and public school partners choose the winning book. The selection process takes an entire year and involves determining a list of criteria, reviewing children’s books published in the prior calendar year, discussing the books in small groups, and finally debating the merits of the final selections. Once the children choose a winner, they invite the author and illustrator to accept the award, which they often do in person.