Coretta Scott King Book Awards

The Coretta Scott King Book Awards recognize African American authors and illustrators whose books for children and teens celebrate Black culture and history alongside values that connect all readers. The awards commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and pay tribute to Coretta Scott King for her lifelong work for peace and justice.

Two librarians founded the awards in 1969, and the first went to Lillie Patterson in 1970. A prize for illustrators followed, first presented in 1974, and the John Steptoe Award for New Talent was added in 1995 to recognize writers and artists early in their careers. A round table of the American Library Association now runs the selection, naming author and illustrator winners and honor books each January. It also presents the Virginia Hamilton Award for lifetime achievement.

Open to African American authors and illustrators of books written for children and young adults. Winners and honor books are named separately for authors and for illustrators.