The first-grade class at All Saints Academy, with a big assist from teacher Julie Reilly won third place in a national contest for their book “So You Want to Be a Tooty Fairy.” (Photos provided)
The first-grade class at All Saints Academy, with a big assist from teacher Julie Reilly won third place in a national contest for their book “So You Want to Be a Tooty Fairy.” (Photos provided)
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Julie Reilly and her first-grade class at All Saints Catholic Academy in Albany won third place and a $500 grant in the 2021-22 National Book Challenge hosted by Studentreasures Publishing.

Each of the first-grade authors were recognized for their contributions to their book, “So You Want to Be a Tooth Fairy,” which was published earlier this year through Studentreasures’ free publishing program. The book was selected for its originality, creative storyline and colorful illustrations out of the more than 63,000 possible entries.

“I am certainly very proud of my students and all the effort and creativity they put into this book. It has been a great experience for them to go through the entire writing process,” Reilly said. “Watching them grow as readers, writers and illustrators while working collaboratively as a group and witnessing their excitement throughout the project has been so much fun.”

Reilly’s class came up with the idea for the book to educate their peers on the different kinds of teeth and to practice dental hygiene through a story about how someone could become a tooth fairy. The first-grade authors researched, wrote and illustrated the different types of teeth and how to properly take care of them.

“At Studentreasures, we are fortunate to witness tremendous creativity and talent from class rooms around the country and all students who publish a book,” said Chad Zimmerman, president and chief executive officer. “We especially congratulate Miss Reilly and her students for earning this unique achievement and completing a project that provides lasting memories and a one-of-a-kind keepsake.”