Children’s book author Lisa Yee

Please join us for the 49th annual Kerlan Award, honoring Lisa Yee, the award-winning author of more than 20 books for children and young adults including her recent titles, Maizy Chen’s Last Chance and The Misfits. The child of two public school teachers, Lisa Yee is a third-generation Chinese American. Born and raised in Los Angeles, her groundbreaking book, Millicent Min, Girl Genius, features one of the first Asian American protagonists in contemporary children’s literature.

About the program

• 5:30 p.m. – Doors open and book sales by Red Balloon Bookshop
• 6 p.m. – Program begins
• Reception and book signing following the program

The Kerlan Award is given yearly in recognition of singular attainments in the creation of children’s literature and in appreciation for the generous donation of unique resources to the Kerlan Collection.

ASL interpreters will be present for the program in person and via livestream.

About Lisa Yee

Lisa Yee is the author of a Maizy Chen’s Last Chance, which is a Newbery Honor book, National Book Award Finalist, and winner of the Asian Pacific American Children’s Literature Award. Her latest novel is a New York Times Bestseller — The Misfits, about a group of awkward undercover crime fighters. She is also the author of over 21 books for young people, including the groundbreaking Millicent Min, Girl Genius; Stanford Wong Flunks Big-Time; and the DC Super Hero Girls series. Lisa is a frequent contributor to NPR’s Books We Love. A third-generation Chinese American, she divides her time between Western Massachusetts and Los Angeles — but you can always find her at www.LisaYee.com.

Event details

What: The 49th Annual Kerlan Award, Honoring Lisa Yee
When: Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2024 | Doors open at 5:30 p.m. | Program: 6-7 p.m. | Reception: 7-8 p.m.
Where: Elmer L. Andersen Library and online | Parking and directions

This event is sponsored by the Kerlan Collection | kerlan.umn.edu and by the Friends of the Kerlan Collection, and is a Bookend Event of the Twin Cities Book Festival.

Notice of photography

Photographs taken at the event may be used in University of Minnesota print and online publications, promotions, or shared with the Libraries community. If you prefer not to be photographed, please let the photographer know during the event! Thank you.