With her short note this afternoon, MCA award-winning author Maria T. diVencenzo made our day. Heck, maybe even our week.

Maria’s newest book, The Scariest Dream Ever, is a finalist for the IBPA Best Picture Book of the Year, also known as the Benjamin Franklin Award.

Last year, Maria DiVencenzo won her first Mom’s Choice Award for The Star of Christmas (Gold, Children’s Picture Book, Seasonal/Holiday/Festivals category).  Earlier this year The Scariest Dream Ever earned her gold again, this time in the Children’s Books, Bedtime Stories category.

Each year, on the eve before the start of BookExpo America, the Independent Book Publishers Association celebrates – and recognizes excellence – in independent publishing. Why “Benjamin Franklin”? Because he is America’s most cherished publisher/printer.

The Awards reception begins at 6:00 pm on May 23, 2011, and the awards presentation begins at 7:00 pm. If you don’t have the opportunity to see Maria there, stop by the Mom’s Choice Awards Booth (#2264) on Tuesday to congratulate her!