Cookbook by St. Brigid School 4th Graders Selected as Finalist in National Competition

Studentreasures Publishing has announced 50 finalists in the 2024-2025 National Book Challenge. The Christmas Cookie Cookbook, written and illustrated by Mrs. Webster and Ms. Connolly's 4th grade classes at St. Brigid School in South Portland, was selected as one of the top 50 books this year. For this honor, each of the classes will receive a $50 gift card and every student will receive a published author certificate. These books were published earlier this year through Studentreasures’ free publishing program.

“Even if we didn't place in the top three, we are still proud to have placed in the top 50 submissions this year! Students have asked me for months about whether we were finalists. Since it took so long to hear back, I told them we probably didn't progress, but it was an honor to be considered, nonetheless. I'm thrilled their hard work finally paid off!” Said Ms. Connolly. 

These books were selected from entries across the country. The considerations to be awarded as a Top 50 book are originality, creative storyline and colorful illustrations. This nationwide contest was open to more than 77,000 books submitted to Studentreasures for free publishing this school year.

“At Studentreasures, we are fortunate to witness tremendous creativity and talent from classrooms around the country,” said Chad Zimmerman, President and Chief Executive Officer at Studentreasures. “We especially congratulate all the students for earning this unique achievement and completing a project that provides lasting memories and a one-of-a-kind keepsake.”

About the book:

The Christmas Cookie Cookbook has been a tradition in the fourth grade for the past three years. Students and their families were encouraged to submit a family-favorite cookie recipe that was special to them. Students worked hard in the classroom typing, illustrating, and writing thoughtful reasons why they chose that specific recipe. The result was this published collection of recipes families can cherish for years to come!

About Studentreasures Publishing

Studentreasures has helped over 18 million students become proud, published authors and provides engaging, hands-on writing lessons in classrooms across the U.S. and Canada. Studentreasures’ National Book Challenge provides an opportunity to win classroom grants, shine a spotlight on students' creativity and create proud, published authors. To learn more, visit Studentreasures.com