At some point in your journey as a children’s book author, you may find yourself wondering:
“Should I submit my book for an award?”
Children's book awards can feel exciting, validating, and even a little mysterious—especially if you’re not sure where to begin or what the process involves. I want to bring clarity to this for you, so you can move forward with confidence, not confusion.
I’m going to walk you through what children’s book awards are, which ones you might consider, what the submission process looks like, and what truly matters most as you pursue this path.
We’ll Cover:
What Are Children’s Book Awards?
Children’s book awards are opportunities for a panel of judges to review, evaluate, and recognize your book.
These judges are often experienced readers, educators, authors, or professionals within the publishing world. They carefully read through submissions and assess books based on specific criteria, such as storytelling, message, illustrations, and overall impact.
One thing I want you to know is this: awards are not something that simply “happens” to your book—you apply for them.
That means you have to be intentional. You get to choose where you submit, when you submit, and which opportunities align best with your goals.
Popular Awards You Can Submit Your Book To
There are many awards available for children’s books, and each one has its own focus and criteria. Here are a few that I often see authors explore:
Mom’s Choice Awards
This is one of the more well-known awards in the children’s space. It recognizes family-friendly content and is often looked at by parents, educators, and librarians.
Independent Publisher Book Awards (IPPY Awards)
The IPPY Awards focus on independently published books and celebrate excellence in publishing outside of traditional large publishing houses.
Purple Dragonfly Book Awards
This award highlights creativity and originality in children’s literature. It’s a wonderful option if your story brings something unique and meaningful to young readers.
Reader’s Favorite Book Awards
This award includes a wide range of categories and offers detailed feedback alongside recognition, which many authors find valuable.
As you explore these, I encourage you to visit each award’s website, read through their categories, and understand what they’re looking for. Each one is a little different.
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What Is the Submission Process Like?
Every award has its own submission process, so attention to detail is very important here.
Most awards will ask you to do some or all of the following:
- Mail a physical copy of your book
- Submit a digital PDF version
- Complete an online application form
- Pay a submission fee
Yes, there is typically a fee involved. This supports the judging process and the people who dedicate their time to reviewing each book.
I want to share something personal with you.
Years ago, I had the opportunity to be part of a judging process. I was sent a box of books, and I carefully went through each one, evaluating specific elements based on a detailed rubric.
It was meaningful work—but it was also a lot of work.
So when you submit your book, know that there are real people on the other side taking the time to read, assess, and honour the effort you’ve put into your story. That’s why following the submission guidelines matters so much. Cross your t’s, dot your i’s, and give your book the best possible chance to be reviewed properly.
What Should You Keep in Mind Before Submitting?
There are a few important mindset shifts I want to offer you here.
Not Every Award Is “Gold”
Some awards offer different levels of recognition—gold, silver, bronze, or star ratings.
If your book receives recognition at any level, I want you to pause and appreciate that, because it means your work stood out.
Be Thoughtful About Where You Apply
Since there are fees involved, take time to choose awards that feel meaningful to you.
You do not need to apply to everything. You can be selective and intentional.
Awards Add Credibility
Receiving an award can support your book in practical ways. For example, if a school is considering inviting you in for a visit, seeing that your book has received recognition can help build trust and confidence.
This, in turn, can become part of your author story.
My Best Advice If You Want Your Book to Win Awards
I’m going to keep this simple and honest.
Write an amazing book.
Not a perfect book. Not a strategic book. An amazing one.
A book that connects with children. A book that makes them feel something. A book that helps them, comforts them, teaches them, or makes them smile.
Because at the end of the day, awards are a reflection of impact.
When your story truly resonates with a child, you’ve already done something meaningful. The recognition may follow—but the impact is what matters most.
This is something I come back to again and again in my work with authors—your focus belongs on the child reading your book.
If you’re considering submitting your children’s book for awards, here’s where you can begin:
Research a few awards that align with your book
Carefully review their submission guidelines
Prepare your materials (physical or digital copies)
Choose intentionally where to submit
Focus on progress, not perfection
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If this idea of submitting your book for awards feels exciting, I want you to hold onto that.
And if it feels a little intimidating, that’s okay too.
You are learning something new. You are growing as an author. You are moving forward.
You can write a book that reaches children, you can take brave steps to share it with the world, and you can build something meaningful, one page at a time.