The late Sheila Barry was a highly regarded publisher at Groundwood Books and a beloved editor to all who worked with her. Her legacy includes many wonderful award-winning books for children.
During her time as publisher, Groundwood Books achieved international recognition and was honoured with major awards including the Bologna Prize for Best Publisher of the Year for North America, numerous Governor General’s Awards and multiple inclusions on the New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book list.
According to author Sara O’Leary, “Sheila Barry was the Superhero of Canadian Children’s Literature.” Sheila was a lot of fun to work with and had many gifts – one of the most important being her amazing ability to pair an author and illustrator to create beautiful and timely picturebooks.
The new Sheila Barry Best Canadian Picturebook of the Year Award is a fitting and well-deserved tribute to her. She would be pleased.