Young Adult Book Awards
Comprehensive guide to awards for YA fiction writers. Find competitions for teen literature across all genres.
About Young Adult Awards
Young adult literature has grown into a major publishing category with prestigious dedicated awards. The Michael L. Printz Award is considered the genre's highest honor, while the William C. Morris Award recognizes debut YA authors. Genre-specific awards also honor YA mystery, romance, and speculative fiction.
Major YA Awards
Michael L. Printz Award
ALA award for literary excellence in young adult literature. The highest YA honor.
William C. Morris Award
ALA award for debut YA book by a first-time author.
National Book Award for Young People's Literature
Prestigious NBA category covering both children's and YA books. Prize: $10,000
Carnegie Medal
UK's oldest children's/YA book award, often won by YA titles.
Genre-Specific YA Awards
YA Awards FAQ
What age range is "young adult"?
YA typically targets readers ages 12-18, with protagonists in this age range. The line between upper middle grade and YA can blur around age 12-14.
Can YA books win adult literary awards?
Yes! Some YA titles have been considered for awards like the Booker Prize, and literary YA often bridges the adult/teen divide.