The Black Caucus of the American Library Association, Inc. (BCALA) and School Library Journal (SLJ) proudly announce the winners of the Children & Young Adult Literary Awards.

These awards honor outstanding books that celebrate the diversity of the Black experience, offering young readers essential windows, mirrors, and sliding glass doors to see themselves and their communities reflected in literature.

The recipients will be recognized at the 2025 American Library Association (ALA) Annual Conference in Philadelphia, PA in June.

Fiction

🏆 Winner: Bright Red Fruit – Safia Elhillo. Make Me a World. ISBSN 9780593381205.
In this poignant novel-in-verse, Safia Elhillo explores the complexities of identity, love, and belonging as a Sudanese American teen grapples with cultural expectations and personal desires. Grounded in Kujichagulia (self-determination), the story highlights the power of self-definition in a world filled with external pressures. It also aligns with Black Identities, showcasing the multiplicity of Black experiences, particularly for those straddling different cultures. Through poetic storytelling, Elhillo creates a deeply resonant journey of self-acceptance and healing that encourages readers to embrace the full spectrum of their identities.

🎖 Honor: The Reckoning – Wade Hudson. Crown. ISBN 9780593647776.
Wade Hudson delivers a powerful middle-grade novel that follows the young protagonist, Lamar, as he navigates friendship, self-awareness, and the realities of injustice in his community. Rooted in Ujima (collective work and responsibility), the story emphasizes the importance of standing together to confront societal challenges. It also embraces Black Agency, Resistance, and Perseverance, encouraging young readers to question systems of power, recognize injustice, and take action. Through engaging storytelling, Hudson highlights the courage it takes to challenge unfairness, the power of unity, and the belief that even young voices can spark meaningful change. This timely and thought-provoking book reminds us that history is not just something to learn from—it's something to shape.
 

Nonfiction

🏆 Winner: A Voice of Hope: The Myrlie Evers-Williams Story – Nadia Salomon, illustrated by London Ladd. Philomel. ISBN 9780593525913.

This beautifully illustrated biography honors the life and activism of Myrlie Evers-Williams, whose relentless pursuit of justice helped shape the civil rights movement. Her journey is deeply rooted in Imani (faith), as she remained steadfast in believing that change was possible despite overwhelming obstacles. The book also embodies Black Agency, Resistance, and Perseverance, highlighting Myrlie Evers-Williams's leadership and resilience in the face of systemic oppression. Through this inspiring narrative, readers of all ages learn that hope and determination are essential forces in the fight for justice.

🎖 Honor: Black Girl You Are Atlas – Renée Watson. Penguin/Kokila. ISBN 9780593461709.
Renée Watson's engaging blend of poetry, prose, and imagery celebrates Black girlhood, resilience, and beauty. Rooted in Kuumba (creativity), this book uses artistic expression to affirm self-worth and identity. It also aligns with Black Identities, amplifying and recognizing Black women and girls as central to cultural and societal change. Watson's storytelling is both a declaration and an affirmation, reminding readers that their dreams, emotions, and identities are valid and worthy of celebration and love.
 

Debut

🏆 Winner: Something Like Right – H.D. Hunter. Farrar. ISBN 9780374389987.
Hunter's young adult debut novel follows Zay as he struggles with choices that could shape his future, tackling resilience, loyalty, and redemptive themes. His journey is guided by Nia (purpose) as he learns that his decisions must align with a greater vision for himself, his community, and his family. The novel also embodies Sankofa, the principle of learning from the past to move forward. Through a heartfelt and realistic portrayal of coming-of-age challenges, Hunter delivers a moving story that encourages readers to seek wisdom from the past while forging a new path forward.

🎖 Honor: How to Lose a Best Friend – Jordan K. Casomar. MTV Bks. ISBN 9781665932097.
Casomar delves into the joys and heartbreaks of friendship, exploring themes of grief, emotional resilience, and self-discovery. This young adult debut novel is rooted in Ujamaa (cooperative economics), as the story emphasizes the importance of reciprocity and support systems in relationships. It also aligns with Black Joy, showcasing moments of love, connection, and happiness as an essential part of Black storytelling. Through a relatable and heartfelt narrative, Casomar affirms that friendships may change, but the lessons they teach us endure.
 

Graphic Novel

🏆 Winner: Safe Passage – G. Neri, illustrated by David Brame. Tu Bks. ISBN 9781643790343.
This gripping graphic novel follows a young man at a crossroads. Darius struggles to navigate the dangers of his environment while seeking a way forward. Rooted in Kujichagulia (self-determination), the story highlights the power of choice and the challenge of breaking cycles of hardship. It also embraces Power and Oppression, exploring how systemic inequities shape the protagonist's reality and the literal and figurative barriers they must overcome. Through bold visuals and emotionally charged storytelling, Neri and Brame encourage young people to reclaim their narratives and futures.

🎖 Honor: Big Jim and the White Boy: An American Classic Reimagined – David F. Walker, illustrated by Marcus Kwame Anderson. Ten Speed. ISBN 9780593836118.
This reimagining of an American classic sheds new light on race, power, and the human connection. Umoja (unity) is at the heart of this retelling, emphasizing the importance of relationships and solidarity in the face of historical and systemic divides. It also aligns with the Decolonization of the Mind, challenging dominant narratives and reclaiming Black perspectives in storytelling. Walker and Anderson craft a compelling, thought-provoking tale that urges readers to question, reflect, and reimagine the stories that shape our collective memory while envisioning a more just and inclusive future.
 

Appreciation & looking ahead

On behalf of the entire committee, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Black Caucus of the American Library Association and School Library Journal for their unwavering dedication to uplifting Black stories and voices. Stay tuned for an upcoming discussion guide designed to spark critical conversations and deepen engagement with these powerful books. And remember—Black history isn't confined to one month. Let's celebrate, learn, and uplift these narratives all year long. May we continue to honor our past, embrace our present, and shape a future filled with knowledge, unity, and empowerment. 
 

Committee members:

Tamela Chambers Chicago Public Library
Donna Gray New York City School Library System
Karen Lemmons Detroit Public Schools
Cherese McKnight District of Columbia Public Schools
Stacey Nunn Baltimore County Public Schools