Vincent: Starry Starry Night Wins Big at 2025 IBPA Book Awards

Celebrated for its artistry, storytelling, and emotional resonance, the children’s book inspired by McLean’s iconic song continues to shine.

Vincent: Starry Starry Night, a children’s book inspired by Don McLean’s iconic ballad “Vincent (Starry, Starry Night),” continues to earn national acclaim—this time taking home a Silver Award from the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) for Best Children’s/Young Adult Cover Design. Authored by Judith A. Proffer and illustrated by Yoko Matsuoka, the book introduces young readers to the life and art of Vincent van Gogh with emotional depth, artistic flair, and themes of creativity, empathy, and emotional resilience.

The award is a significant recognition from the IBPA, which has honored excellence in independent publishing for 40 years. Known for its rigorous judging and focus on design and editorial quality, the IBPA Book Awards remain one of the most respected distinctions in the publishing world. For Vincent: Starry Starry Night, the Silver Medal is a testament to the book’s stunning visuals, designed to capture young imaginations while honoring the emotional essence of van Gogh’s legacy.

“I’m quite proud of the work that Judith Proffer and Yoko Matsuoka have created and very pleased with this honor granted to them by the IBPA,” said Don McLean. “I hope that many will discover the beauty of this children’s book!”

Since its release, Vincent has been more than just a children’s book—it’s become a cross-generational celebration of art and storytelling. Recently, it was featured at The Creative Coalition’s National Arts Summit in Las Vegas, where copies were shared with more than 500 prominent figures in arts, education, and cultural policy. This spotlight further emphasized the book’s growing relevance as a teaching tool and artistic tribute.

Adding to its list of honors, Vincent also received a Bronze Medal for Illustration at the Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards, which recognize books that inspire young readers, promote imagination, and encourage a lifelong love of literature. The award placed the book among an elite group of titles known for enriching the lives of children and families.

The idea behind Vincent: Starry Starry Night began with McLean’s hauntingly beautiful tribute to van Gogh. The book transforms the emotion of that song into a visual and narrative experience for a new generation. Through Matsuoka’s expressive illustrations and Proffer’s gentle storytelling, readers are guided through van Gogh’s struggles and triumphs in a way that feels both accessible and deeply meaningful.

“Meteor 17’s commitment to cultural impact made lending my song to Spencer and Judy to inspire them to craft such a beautiful story Vincent: Starry Starry Night a natural choice,” McLean said. “It’s a beautiful reminder of how art and literature can start meaningful conversations, especially with younger generations.”

For Spencer Proffer, founder of Meteor 17 Books, the accolades are more than just awards—they’re validation of a mission. “All of the accolades for Vincent: Starry Starry Night are a true affirmation of our mission at Meteor 17—to tell stories that matter,” he said. “The continued recognition of this book underscores its universal message and enduring relevance.”

With each new honor, Vincent: Starry Starry Night solidifies its place as a modern classic—a poignant example of how music, literature, and visual art can intersect to create something enduring. More than just a tribute to a legendary artist, the book is a bridge between generations, inviting readers young and old to find beauty in resilience, light in darkness, and inspiration in creativity.

Vincent: Starry Starry Night is available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, ThriftBooks, and other retailers.

For more information about the Independent Book Publishers Association and a full list of 2025 IBPA Book Award winners, visit ibpabookaward.org.