Phoenix Supports Art Contest For Popular Children’s Book Series

Jeremy Jackrabbit, the beloved children’s book character, is back! Jeremy Jackrabbit Travels Safely is the newest title in a series of Jeremy Jackrabbit adventure books, and the latest story highlights the importance of pedestrian safety.

With the support of District 1 Councilwoman Thelda Williams and District 7 Councilman Michael Nowakowski, the City of Phoenix has partnered with local authors, Sasha and Rodney Glassman, to hold an art contest to promote the latest book in the series and showcase the talent of Phoenix-area youth.

“We are thrilled to invite student artists from across the Valley to share their talent and help us tell the story of Jeremy Jackrabbit,” Rodney Glassman said.

Artwork will be selected to illustrate the book that will be published by the Glassman’s in 2020. More than 50,000 copies of the book will be distributed for free to each kindergarten student in Maricopa County.

“Pedestrian safety is a top priority and it is important to constantly educate all who share the road,” Councilwoman Williams said. “Sharing an important message successfully takes strong partnerships; I’m grateful that the Glassman’s have stepped up to this project and that our sponsors and partners are providing support.”

“Jeremy Jackrabbit has been a staple in Phoenix schools for nearly a decade, teaching children the importance of everything from recycling to water conservation,” Councilman Nowakowski said. “Phoenix kids can now help design Jeremy’s next adventure, a cause that is a top priority for myself and the city, road safety.”

Youth artists may enter up to two drawings done in any art medium. Illustrations may be in color or black and white, but may not be larger that 11×17 inches. Colored backgrounds are preferred. Artwork may be submitted at select Phoenix community centers or by mail by Friday, Nov. 22, 2019 at 5 p.m. The text of the book, which should be used by youth as a prompt for their artwork, contest entry form, submission locations and additional information is available at Phoenix.gov/Parks/JeremyJackrabbit.

The pedestrian safety message shared in the book and an opportunity to submit artwork for publication will be integrated into the city’s Parks and Recreation Department Phoenix Afterschool Center (PAC) curriculum this fall. PAC is offered at school sites citywide. Experienced city recreation staff lead structured activities and provide homework help for youth ages 6 to 13 during afterschool hours.