WEST MILFORD Mary Bono of West Milford has been honored by Highlights for Children for her illustration of the poem “Winter Clothes,” which was published in the January 2006 issue. Bono’s illustration was named “Verse Page Illustration of the Year” by the Highlights editorial, art, and production staff. Bono’s textile and clay illustration depicts a very bundled-up child preparing for a walk outdoors. “I was charmed by Karla Kuskin’s poem,” said Bono. “It immediately suggested incorporating a simple carved-styrofoam form. I also dressed’ the figure in fleece and crocheted a hat and scarf.” In recognition of her achievement, Bono received an eight-inch pewter plate engraved with her name, the title of the winning illustration, and the issue in which it appeared. The pewter plates are handcrafted in Honesdale, Pa., the home of Highlights since its beginning in 1946. Now in its 62nd year, Highlights, edited for children up to age 12, goes to approximately two million homes, schools, libraries, and professional offices, and has the largest circulation of any children’s periodical in the country. Each year the staff of Highlights votes for the authors and illustrators whose work it considers to be the best in the year. Editor in Chief Emeritus Kent L. Brown Jr. established the tradition in 1982 as a way to show appreciation to freelance contributors for excellent work. Bono studied fine arts and graphic design at the Cooper Union, graduating with a B.F.A., and has studied illustration at the School of Visual Arts. A graphic designer for many years, she has also completed museum-commissioned sculptures and eventually shifted her focus to editorial illustration, most recently to children’s books, magazines, games, and educational publications. A member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, she has illustrated books (including “Ugh! A Bug,” which she also wrote) and numerous pieces for magazines. “I’ve always explored art through numerous materials and techniques,” Bono said. “I come from a family of craftsmen.” In her free time, Bono enjoys gardening and endeavors to learn to recognize trees, wildflowers, and birds. When asked why she decided to illustrate for Highlights, Bono replied, “This was my first assignment [for Highlights]. I knew Highlights as a high-profile magazine with a long history, so it must have a solid connection with children. I have subsequently developed a strong belief in the philosophy and an appreciation for the working relationship.”