We’re over the moon (pun intended) to share some exciting news! Our beloved picture book, Missy Moo the Highland Coo, has just been awarded Silver in the Best Picture Book – Preschool category at the 2025 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards!
The Moonbeam Awards celebrate excellence in children’s publishing and honour stories that inspire creativity, compassion, and a lifelong love of reading. Seeing Missy Moo recognised among the top children’s books in North America is an incredible milestone for our small, independent press here in Ontario.
“I’m so thrilled to see Missy Moo recognised at an international level,” says Kelsey Marshalsey, founder of Brown Paper Fox and author-illustrator of the award-winning book. “It’s a story rooted in kindness, confidence, and connection — and this award feels like a celebration of the joy she’s brought to families everywhere.”
About Missy Moo the Highland Coo
Written and illustrated by Kelsey Marshalsey, Missy Moo the Highland Coo follows a confident young Highland cow as she explores her pasture and learns to embrace exactly who she is.
With its gentle rhymes and heartfelt message, Missy Moo has quickly become a favourite among families, educators, and young readers across Canada and beyond.
Since her debut, Missy Moo’s world has grown to include a lift-the-flap board book, a plush toy, and a colouring book.
About the Moonbeam Awards
Now in their 19th year, the Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards honour outstanding books from small presses, authors, and illustrators around the world. Winners are selected for their originality, emotional depth, and ability to spark imagination in young readers — values we hold close at Brown Paper Fox.
We’re endlessly grateful to everyone who’s supported Missy Moo on her journey, from local bookstores to the families who’ve shared her story at bedtime. This recognition belongs to all of you.
Thank you for cheering her on and for continuing to believe in the magic of independent publishing.
Explore Missy Moo the Highland Coo and more at www.brownpaperfox.com
View more recipients of the 2025 Moonbeam Children's Book Awards at www.moonbeamawards.com