BANGOR – Maine Discovery Museum has announced the winners of its Time of Wonder Children’s Book Award, given annually to a book that captures the sense of wonder and imagination of the most enduring children’s literature. This year the panel of judges chose both a picture book and a novel, both published last year, to receive the award.

The winners are “The Three Questions,” written and illustrated by Jon J. Muth, published by Scholastic Press, and “Ruby Holler” by Sharon Creech, published by HarperCollins Publishers.

“The Three Questions,” based on a story by Russian author Leo Tolstoy, is retold as a conversation between a boy and his animal companions, who offer their own answers to the child’s question about leading a good life.

“Ruby Holler,” the latest novel by well-known children’s author Sharon Creech, is a Dickensian delight, replete with dastardly villains, heart-warming heroes, and a pair of unforgettable protagonists, the “trouble twins,” foster children Florida and Dallas.

The Time of Wonder panelists also selected the following Recommended Titles for 2002: “A Story for Bear,” Dennis Haseley, illustrated by Jim LaMarche (Harcourt Inc.); “Little Dog and Duncan,” Kristine O’Connell George, illustrated by June Otani (Clarion Books); “The Sea Chest,” Tony Buzzeo, illustrated by Mary GrandPre (Dial Books for Young Readers); “Summerland,” Michael Chabon (Talk Miramax Books).

The 2001 Time of Wonder Awards was presented to the “The Other Side” by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by E.B. Lewis (G. Putnam’s Sons). The second annual Time of Wonder Awards will be presented as part of Time of Wonder Children’s Book Festival in October. Maine Discovery Museum welcomes inquires about its programs. For more information, contact Andrea Stark, director of education and exhibits, at astark@mainediscoverymuseum.org, or 262-7200.