What is the Jane Addams Children's Book Award

The Jane Addams Children’s Book Award annually recognizes children’s books of literary and aesthetic excellence that effectively engage children in thinking about peace, social justice, global community, and equity for all people. A national committee of members with passion for and expertise in children’s literature and social justice is responsible for making the choices each year.

2021 Jane Addams Children’s Book Awards

Winner

A Wish in the Dark
Books for Older Children by Christina Soontornvat
Winner

We Are Water Protectors
Books for Younger Children by Carole Lindstrom, Illustrated by Michaela Goade
Honor

Finish the Fight
Books for Older Children
Honor

Land of the Cranes
Books for Older Children
Honor

Black Is a Rainbow Color.
Books for Younger Children
Honor

Ocean Speaks: How Marie Tharp Revealed The Ocean’s Biggest Secret
Books for Younger Children

Browse all Jane Addams Children’s Book Award Titles

2020 Finalists Announcement and Titles

View Books for Peace & Social Justice: A Panel Discussion with 2021 winning author, Christiana Soontornvat along with Jane Addams Children’s Book Award Selection Committee members held as part of the American Montessori Society’s 2021 Virtual Convention

2019 Jane Addams Children’s Book Awards

Winner

Ghost Boys
Books for Older Children by Jewell Parker Rhodes
Ghost Boys is a timely and haunting depiction of two African American boys who die before reaching manhood, victims of violence. Drawing on traditions that view ancestors as [...]
Winner

The Day You Begin
Books for Younger Children by Jacqueline Woodson
The Day You Begin demonstrates the power of sharing stories to break down barriers and build community. The Selection Committee noted [...]
Honor

The Day War Came
Books for Younger Children
Honor

We Rise, We Resist, We Raise Our Voices
Books for Older Children
Honor

The Night Diary
Books for Older Children
Honor

Julián is a Mermaid
Books for Younger Children