Every spring United Way of Freeborn County, along with business sponsors, supports the publication and distribution of a locally written and illustrated children’s book.

The 2011 Children’s Book is titled “Timmy Learns a Lesson.” It was written by local ninth-grader Nicole Borneman, and addresses the topic of bullying.

The United Way is looking for its 2012 book author. Guidelines are as follows:

Book ideas will be reviewed by a small committee of local experts in early childhood education. To be considered for publication, the committee has set the following guidelines:

• Must be an original story by a local author (all ages accepted)

• Have 24 pages or fewer

• Contain on average 12 to 40 words per page with large print

• Include illustrations (photographs or sharp/color images are preferred)

• Use language that is appropriate for children in kindergarten through second grade

The deadline for submissions is Oct. 21. Submissions will be reviewed by the panel and the author will be notified in November. The book will be finalized during the spring/summer of 2012 and published in the spring of 2013.

Manuscripts and illustrations should be sent to United Way of Freeborn County, 341 S. Broadway, Albert Lea, MN 56007. Submissions can also be dropped off at the United Way office, located in the first level of U.S. Bank in downtown Albert Lea.