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2022 Children’s and YA Book Awards Winners
It’s time! What better way to kick off Children’s Book Week than with the announcement of our Children’s Book Award Winners? This year, we had so many incredible options in each category that it was incredibly difficult to decide. After tallying the votes, we have our winners in Picture Book, Middle Grade and Young Adult and an overall winner as well. Last year’s overall winner was Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston. Which book will it be this year?!
Picture Book Winner
Our picture book shortlist was full of amazing stories about animals, inclusivity, kindness, and bravery. Each book is a great addition to any little one’s library, but we did have one book that we simply couldn’t get out of our heads! That book? Knight Owl!
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In his author-illustrator debut, Christopher Denise’s clever wordplay and detailed illustrations for Knight Owl give it the feel of an instant classic. Since the day he hatched, Owl dreamed of becoming a real knight — but he’ll have to be creative when facing the fearsome dragon. Owl’s quest to become a formidable knight is perfect for fans of Dragonboy and Attack of the Underwear Dragon.
Young Reader Winner
This year’s young reader shortlist was full of books of friendship, adventure, self-discovery, and fighting for what’s right. We’re so lucky to live in a time when all these amazing books are released, but alas, we had to have one winner. Hooky captured the hearts of so many readers, and we’re excited to announce that it’s the winner of our Young Reader category!
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Based on the much-loved WEBTOON comic, Hooky is a heartfelt and hilarious graphic novel about twin witches Dani and Dorian who miss the bus to their magical school and need to find a mentor — fast. Bright manga-style art beautifully illustrates the dialogue as readers delve deeper into this magical universe complete with danger, deception and, of course, dragons.
Young Adult Winner
Our young adult shortlist had so many amazing fantasies, books that keep you on the edge of your seat, and books full of love, self-acceptance, and friendships. With so many fantastic reads, we just wish we could press pause and catch up on our TBRs, but if you bump any from our shortlist to the top of your list, we highly recommend our Young Adult Winner: Iron Widow!
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A feminist sci-fi story inspired by Chinese history? Sign us up. Iron Widow is a richly imagined, nonstop alien adventure that is truly unlike anything we’ve ever read. A vibrant and unrelenting trio of main characters make this story a true standout, along with a shocking ending that will leave readers clamoring for the sequel.
Overall Winner
We are incredibly excited about this year’s Overall Winner! Not only does it have fantastic illustrations and adventure, but it also has fantastic wordplay that will have families reading it over and over again! That’s right, our Overall Winner is none other than Knight Owl! This book has been one that everyone instantaneously falls in love with, and we couldn’t be more thrilled!
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“Knight Owl marks my author-illustrator debut. To have it recognized as the Barnes & Noble Children’s and YA Book Award Winner, and to sit alongside so many wonderful books, is an incredible honor,” said author and illustrator, Christopher Denise. “I’m overjoyed that this little Owl has captured the hearts of readers, and so grateful to Barnes & Noble for choosing it. I think I’ll celebrate like Owl would, with a really good slice of pizza.”
Here is what Barnes & Noble booksellers are saying about the Overall Winner, Knight Owl:
“With charming illustrations and an inspiring message, Knight Owl is sure to be appreciated by both readers young and old. You’ll lose yourself in the timeless, dreamy world that Christopher Denise has crafted and fall in love with the adorable titular character. Our world needs more heroes like Owl — hopefully, this book will recruit an army’s worth!” –Bookseller Chris G., New York, NY
“The pictures are fantastic and so imaginative and the story itself delivers. Not only is it extremely cute but it is also inspiring for young impressionable minds. I cannot recommend this book enough!” –Bookseller Kaitlin M., Fargo, ND
“Knight Owl was a wonderful read from cover to cover! I loved the underlying theme that if you follow your heart and dream big, you have the power within to make anything happen. This is sure to be a wonderful new bedtime adventure for all.” –Bookseller Elizabeth G., Manchester, NH
“This book is adorable and simply has the best illustrations. Owl will give readers so many warm fuzzies that they’ll want to snuggle up with the book. It is such a cute story about friendship and looking out for one another. And pizza!” –Bookseller Allyson, G., Fort Collins, CO
“I love the messages of friendship, kindness and cleverness that permeates throughout this story. Knight Owl piqued my interest as soon as I saw the cover — look how adorable Owl is! — and the pages inside the book delivered. This sweet story is sure to be an immediate classic.” –Bookseller Lindsay B., Glastonbury, CT