IBPA Awards judge gives Simon's Mansion the highest score (10) in each category. "I gave this book a 10 in writing because of the great use of language with complex descriptions such as the one on page 40 of “fast freeze productions.” There are so many engaging minor characters such as Clarice and Twiggy. Each character in this novel is so well drawn and the dialogue is sharp, authentic, and believable. Even the dog Cicero and the goat Ferdinand are endearing characters. I loved the relationship that develops between crotchety Vivian and kindly Thad. The respectful but conflicted relationship between Simon and sister Connie who is intelligent, caring, but very religious and well-meaning is fascinating as well. The author does a great job of moving the story forward through dialogue instead of using excessive description and exposition. The setting and time and place are all vividly portrayed. There are message machines, telexes, modems, cassette players, VHS tapes, and call...
