Oswego, Ill. (March 16, 2023) — Congratulations to Oswego High School English teacher and OHS alumni Michael Leali on earning the 2023 Golden Kite Award for his first novel entitled, The Civil War of Amos Abernathy.  This was Michael's debut novel and was published in June, 2022. Since being published, his book has earned many national accolades, with the 2023 Golden Kite award being the first major award.

The Golden Kite award was instituted in 1973 and is the only children’s literary award judged by a jury of peers. Michael's novel was one of more than a thousand books entered to be reviewed. The Golden Kite Awards recognizes excellence in children’s literature in seven categories: Young Reader and Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, Nonfiction Text for Younger Readers, Nonfiction Text for Older Readers, Picture Book Text, Picture Book Illustration, and Illustration for older Readers.  

Michael, currently has his second book, Matteo being published and is scheduled to be released on May 23, 2023. Congratulations, Michael, for your accomplishment!