OCEAN ISLE BEACH, N.C. – Award-winning author and educator Lisa M. Pritchard is celebrating a remarkable year of recognition for her debut picture book, Dirt Dog Invites Prissy Poodle to the Prom, after the book was named Children’s Book of the Year by the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA) Golden Scroll Awards.
The honor follows a growing list of national recognitions for the heartwarming children’s book, including:
Released in March 2026, Dirt Dog Invites Prissy Poodle to the Prom is the first book in the Dirt Dog and Friends series for children ages 4–8. Through lovable animal characters, humor, and heartfelt adventures, the series encourages children to look beyond outward appearances and discover that true worth is found in kindness, courage, perseverance, and strong character.
Inspired by the timeless truth of 1 Samuel 16:7, the story reminds young readers that while people often judge by appearance, God looks at the heart.
Pritchard, a former Teacher of the Year and literacy educator, believes children’s books can be both engaging and meaningful.
“My prayer is that every child who reads Dirt Dog will know they are valuable, loved, and capable of making a difference through kindness. I want children to laugh, enjoy the adventure, and quietly discover that character will always matter more than appearance.”
Concerned by declining literacy rates and the growing need for positive, character-building resources, Pritchard created the Dirt Dog and Friends series to encourage children to develop a love of reading while learning lessons about friendship, compassion, courage, gratitude, respect, and faith.
The series has continued to grow beyond traditional books. Families can now enjoy the official Dirt Dog and Friends theme song, while several new educational resources are scheduled for release this fall, including:
The adventure will continue in Spring 2027 with Book Three, introducing another heartwarming story from the lovable residents of Friendship Falls.
Parents, grandparents, teachers, librarians, churches, and homeschool families have embraced the series for its engaging storytelling, discussion questions, and positive messages that naturally encourage conversations about kindness, confidence, perseverance, and faith.
For more information about the award-winning Dirt Dog and Friends series, printable activities, games, upcoming releases, and author appearances, visit www.dirtdogandfriends.com.
About Lisa M. Pritchard
Lisa M. Pritchard is an award-winning children’s author, educator, speaker, and literacy advocate. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from High Point University and a Master of Education from North Carolina State University. During her education career, she served on county and state literacy teams, led professional development workshops, and was recognized as Teacher of the Year. Guided by her Christian faith, Pritchard writes stories that help children develop kindness, courage, confidence, strong character, and a lifelong love of reading.
Media ContactCompany Name: Literary TitanContact Person: Lisa M. PritchardEmail: Send EmailCountry: United StatesWebsite: www.dirtdogandfriends.com
