Best New Young Author

Ellison Blakes

Austin fourth grader Ellison Blakes isn’t even a full-time author, but he demonstrates the professionalism of a seasoned scribe. El’s Mirror – the 9-year-old’s debut book, written in tandem with local luminary father, Bavu – describes the challenges of El’s kindergarten year as a marginalized student facing the unexpected challenges of his learning environment. El’s Mirror reflects a style of writing aimed toward younger people, but carries substantive moral weight to influence parents, mentors, and educators as well.