Children's Book Awards
Comprehensive guide to awards for children's book authors and illustrators. From the Newbery and Caldecott to regional and diversity awards, discover competitions for your children's literature.
About Children's Book Awards
Children's literature has some of the most prestigious and recognized awards in publishing. The Newbery Medal (for writing) and Caldecott Medal (for illustration) are awarded annually by the American Library Association and significantly impact book sales and library acquisitions.
Awards cover all children's age groups: board books, picture books, early readers, chapter books, and middle grade. Many awards also recognize diverse voices and specific cultural perspectives in children's literature.
Major Children's Book Awards
Newbery Medal
Most distinguished contribution to American literature for children. The highest honor for children's writing in the US.
Caldecott Medal
Most distinguished American picture book for children. The highest honor for picture book illustration.
Carnegie Medal
UK's oldest and most prestigious children's book award for outstanding writing.
Kate Greenaway Medal
UK's premier award for illustration in children's books.
Hans Christian Andersen Award
International award for lifetime achievement in children's literature. The "Nobel Prize" of children's books.
Diversity & Multicultural Awards
Awards celebrating diverse voices and perspectives in children's literature.
Coretta Scott King Award
Recognizing African American authors and illustrators of outstanding books for children and young adults.
Pura Belpre Award
Honoring Latino/Latina writers and illustrators whose work best portrays the Latino cultural experience.
Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature
Honoring books about Asian/Pacific Americans and their heritage.
American Indian Youth Literature Award
Identifying and honoring the best writing and illustrations by and about American Indians.
Picture Book Awards
Middle Grade & Chapter Book Awards
Children's Book Awards FAQ
What's the difference between Newbery and Caldecott?
The Newbery Medal honors the most distinguished contribution to American children's literature (writing), while the Caldecott Medal honors the most distinguished American picture book illustration. A book can win both if the writing and art are both exceptional.
Can self-published children's books win awards?
Most ALA awards require traditional publication, but many awards welcome self-published children's books. The IPPY Awards, Mom's Choice Awards, and Moonbeam Children's Book Awards accept indie titles.
How does a book get nominated for the Newbery?
The Newbery selection committee considers all eligible books published in the previous year. Publishers may send copies for consideration, but books don't need to be submitted to be eligible.
What are Honor Books?
Honor Books (also called "runners-up") are distinguished books that didn't win the medal but merit recognition. Newbery and Caldecott Honor Books receive silver stickers and often become bestsellers.