50th annual Kerlan Award honoring Jim McMullan

Please join us Oct. 28 to celebrate 50 years of the Kerlan Award, while honoring illustrator Jim McMullan!

Illustrator Jim McMullan

Jim McMullan has created images for magazine stories, books for adults and children, record covers, United States postage stamps, murals, and animated films. A highlight of his career is illustrating the popular series of vehicle books, (including I Stink!, a monologue by a garbage truck), written by his wife, the author, Kate McMullan, which Amazon has transformed into the animated series, The Stinky and Dirty Show.

This hybrid event is free and open to all. Please register if you plan to attend.

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.

Event details

What: The 50th annual Kerlan Award, honoring Jim McMullan
When: Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025 | 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 and by the Friends of the Kerlan Collection.