The 2026 Coretta Scott King Award

Summary: In a tense Texas town, Lala, a young cellist with the gift of foresight, foresees a tragedy—a Black boy's death. As racial tensions rise, she faces a harrowing choice: intervene to save him or let events unfold, potentially igniting transformative change. With her grandmother's visions complicating matters, Lala must decide whose life to prioritize. Can she sacrifice one to save many, or will she defy fate to protect the innocent? As protests loom, Lala's decision could alter the course of history. What will she choose?

Summary: In Great Mountain, Mississippi, Henson Blayze, a 13-year-old football prodigy, faces a life-altering choice. After a shocking event, he questions his role in a town that values him only for his talent. As the community splits over his decision to speak out, Henson must decide if he will continue to entertain those who may not see him as human or pursue a different path. This powerful tale explores race, identity, and the struggle for justice, revealing how much—and how little—has changed over time.

Summary: In the Jim Crow South, young André Leon Talley dreams beyond his humble beginnings. Escaping into the glossy pages of fashion magazines, he falls for elegance and style, despite judgment and bullying. Against all odds, André crafts his own fashion fairytale, rising to become a global icon. Discover his inspiring journey from rural North Carolina to the heights of the fashion world, where his legacy shines brightly. Will his story inspire the next generation of dreamers?

Summary: In a transformative summer, three Black boys journey to the South, where laughter and exploration in Mississippi's woods forge a bond that transcends their differences. Under the watchful eyes of Grandmama and Mama Lara, they navigate the joys and challenges of friendship, playing games and sharing secrets. As they sled on cardboard and play marco polo, their camaraderie grows, revealing the unspoken connections that unite them. This lyrical tale captures the essence of a summer that changes everything, highlighting the tender ties of friendship and the freedom found in shared adventures.