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Saint Paul, MN – Planting People Growing Justice Leadership Institute (PPGJLI) is now accepting submissions for its annual Children’s Book Awards, recognizing excellence in published picture books by Black authors and illustrators.

The awards were created to promote literacy and increase diversity in children’s books by uplifting the voices of writers of African descent and creators.

Why Submit?

The PPGJLI Children’s Book Awards offer more than recognition—they provide a platform for emerging and established authors to amplify their voices and impact the next generation of readers.

Selected winners will:

• Be recognized by a community panel of judges
• Gain visibility among educators, families, and national literacy networks
• Contribute to a growing movement advancing representation in children’s literature

Who Should Apply

• Published authors and illustrators of African descent
• Creators committed to equity, inclusion, and social change
• Books that inspire, educate, and empower children and families

Submissions are encouraged from both emerging and established creators whose published works reflect culture, identity, and community.

Submission Details

• Deadline: April 15, 2026
• Entries are reviewed by a panel of community leaders and literary professionals
• Selected works highlight storytelling that promotes literacy, leadership, and positive social change

A Growing Movement

Through initiatives like the Children’s Book Awards and the 100 Black Authors Campaign, PPGJLI continues to expand access to diverse books and ensure all children can see themselves reflected in the stories they read.

“Our goal is to empower authors and inspire young readers through stories that matter,” said Dr. Artika Tyner, PPGJLI founder. “Every submission helps build a more inclusive literary future.”

How to Apply

Submit your work and learn more at: https://www.ppgjli.org/ppgjli-childrens-book-awards

2025 PPGJLI Book Award Winners

Book of the Year: Minnesota

• Sowda Mohamed (The Magic Headscarf)
• Anthony Walsh (Hockey Is for Everybody: Anthony’s Goal)
• Habiba Mohamed (You Are Not Alone)

Best Illustration: Minnesota

• Lena Bee (My Rainbow Days)
• Meleck Davis (The Big Leaf Leap)

National Book of the Year

• Christiana Smith (Jada’s Dream Girls)

2024 PPGJ Book Award Winners

Best Illustration: Minnesota

• Lanesa Bejnarowicz (Nap Time)

Book of the Year: Minnesota

• Nasra Noor (My Mommy is a School Teacher)

Social Change

• Rose McGee (Can’t Nobody Make a Sweet Potato Pie Like Our Mama!)

• Isaiah Allen (A Smile) *honorable mention

Black History

• Mizz Mercedez (Going Back to Rondo)

National Book of the Year

• Portia Bright Pittman (A Bright Day at the State Capitol: There Ought to be a Law) + Activity Book

• Lesley Bracero and Natoia Franklin (BJ Doesn’t Cry) *honorable mention

• Elise M. Washington (Tika Speaks) *honorable mention

About PPGJLI

Planting People Growing Justice Leadership Institute (PPGJLI) is an award-winning nonprofit dedicated to promoting literacy, leadership, and social change. Through programs like Leaders are Readers, PPGJLI has donated over 50,000 books and inspired thousands of young readers across the Twin Cities and beyond.

Media Contact
Company Name: Planting People Growing Justice® Leadership Institute
Contact Person: Jacklyn Milton
Email: Send Email
Phone: (651) 303-6566
City: Saint Paul
State: Minnesota
Country: United States
Website: www.ppgjli.org