Award-Winning Books

Last updated: January 27, 2026

Looking for a great kids' book? Whether it's the Newbery Medal, the Coretta Scott King Book Award, or a Pura Belpre Award, the must-read books on this list have all been honored by one of the United States' top book prizes. You'll find picks for all ages—from early readers to teen bookworms—in a range of genres. From gorgeous picture books that have won a Caldecott Medal or Honor or a Michael L. Printz award for best books for teens to distinguished reads for all ages about disability, queer, and Indigenous experiences, they're all worth checking out. These excellent award winners are on their way to becoming classics in children's literature. And for more essential books, try our list of the 50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12 or the 50 Books All Teens Should Read Before They're 18.