The 2026 ALA Youth Media Awards winners were announced on Monday, January 26, in Chicago, celebrating exceptional contributions to children’s literature. These awards honor a range of authors and illustrators whose works have significantly impacted the literary landscape for young audiences.
Highlights of the 2026 ALA Youth Media Awards
- John Newbery Medal: Awarded to Renée Watson for All the Blues in the Sky.
- Randolph Caldecott Medal: Cátia Chien illustrated Fireworks, written by Matthew Burgess.
- Theodor Seuss Geisel Award: Given to Jonathan Fenske for Stop That Mop!.
- Children’s Literature Legacy Award: Candace Fleming was recognized for her lasting contributions.
- Excellence in Early Learning Digital Media: Awarded to Weather Hunters by WeatherHunters, Inc. and Silver Creek Falls Entertainment.
Notable Audiobook Awards
- Odyssey Award for Children’s (0-14):Clack, Clack! Smack! A Cherokee Stickball Story produced by Arnie Cardillo and Debra Cardillo.
- Odyssey Award for Young Adult (12-18):Trans History: From Ancient Times to the Present Day produced by Iris McElroy and Juan Garcia Ticoulat.
Additional Recognition in Children’s Literature
- Robert F. Sibert Medal: Awarded to Sara Andrea Fajardo for Alberto Salas Plays Paka Paka con la Papa.
- Mildred L. Batchelder Award:Croco, published by Tapioca Stories.
- Pura Belpré Awards: Honors Latino/a writers such as Lupe Ruiz-Flores for The Pecan Sheller.
- Coretta Scott King Book Awards: Jewell Parker Rhodes awarded for Will’s Race for Home.
Emerging Talent and Special Categories
- William C. Morris Award: Recognized DeAndra Davis for All the Noise at Once.
- Stonewall Book Awards: Honored Halfway to Somewhere by Jose Pimienta.
- American Indian Youth Literature Awards: Featured Andrea L. Rogers for Chooch Helped.
This year’s awards spotlight the importance of diversity and representation in literature for children and young adults. The honored works reflect a rich tapestry of experiences, offering valuable insights and fostering an appreciation for multicultural narratives.
