Children's book award · 1974–2026

Golden Kite Award Books

Browse children's books recognized by the Golden Kite Award, including winners and honored titles from 1974 through 2026.

The most recent cycle

The 2026 Golden Kite Award

2026 Golden Kite Award Winner · Picture Book Illustration

Sale price

$1899

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2025

When Alexander Graced the Table

By Alexander Smalls, Denene Millner, Frank Morrison (Illustrator)

A young boy must create the perfect dish to impress his family at Sunday dinner.

Golden Kite Award (2026)

40 pages

4.3/5 Goodreads · 220 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Summary: Young Alexander eagerly anticipates Sunday dinners, a cherished family tradition. This time, he's tasked with crafting a dish that captures the warmth and sweetness of their gatherings. Can he create something that delights everyone and makes his father proud? With a recipe for icebox lemon pie, Alexander embarks on a culinary adventure that celebrates family and togetherness.

2026 Golden Kite Award Winner · Picture Book Text

Sale price

$1899

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2025

We Go Slow

By Mariahadessa Ekere Tallie, Aaron Becker (Illustrator)

A girl and her grandfather discover everyday wonders by slowing down in their bustling city.

Golden Kite Award (2026)

32 pages

4.1/5 Goodreads · 229 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Summary: A young girl and her grandfather embark on a leisurely stroll through their vibrant city, savoring each sensory experience. From the melody of a bird's song to the taste of fresh mango slices, they uncover the beauty in everyday moments. As they explore, their bond deepens, reminding us of the joy found in slowing down and truly observing the world around us. What small wonders will they encounter next on their journey?

2026 Golden Kite Award Winner · Nonfiction for Younger Readers

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 5–9 · 2025

Some of Us

By Rajani LaRocca,, Huy Voun Lee (Illustrator)

Explore the journey to US citizenship and the diverse paths that lead to becoming American.

Golden Kite Award (2026)

32 pages

4.3/5 Goodreads · 164 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Summary: What does it mean to become an American? This captivating tale follows individuals from diverse backgrounds as they navigate the complex journey of immigration and naturalization. Through lyrical prose and stunning artwork, discover how people from all walks of life come to the United States to live, work, and contribute to their communities. As they embrace their new home, they face the challenge of maintaining their identity while striving to become naturalized citizens. This story celebrates the rich tapestry of experiences that shape our nation and the enduring spirit of those who seek to participate in its democracy.

2026 Honor Books

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1899

Chapter Book · Ages 6–9 · 2025

Gabby Torres Gets a Billion Followers

By Angela Dominguez · Gabby Torres series

A young girl faces online trouble while trying to promote her club.

Golden Kite Honor (2026)

160 pages

3.6/5 Goodreads · 358 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Summary: Nine-year-old Gabby Torres is determined to make her mark by promoting her environmental club online. But when her social media efforts attract unwanted attention, Gabby must navigate the tricky waters of digital drama. With her parents doubting her readiness, Gabby is set on proving she can handle the chaos. Will her tenacity be enough to overcome the challenges of fourth grade and the online world? Dive into Gabby's world where humor meets heart in a tale of youthful ambition and unexpected hurdles.

Sale price

$1899

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2025

Fireworks

By Matthew Burgess, Catia Chien (Illustrator)

Two siblings await a dazzling fireworks show on a steamy July day.

Caldecott Medal (2026)Charlotte Zolotow Honor (2026)Golden Kite Honor (2026)

44 pages· 316 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud

4.3/5 Goodreads · 1,184 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Summary: On a sweltering July day, two siblings eagerly await the night’s fireworks display. As the city buzzes with anticipation, the Fourth of July sky promises a breathtaking spectacle. Will the night deliver the magic they hope for? Experience the wonder as words and art ignite the sky, capturing the essence of summer's most vibrant celebration.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$2374

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2025

Lu and Ren's Guide to Geozoology

By Angela Hsieh

A girl ventures into a magical land to find her missing grandmother, uncovering secrets and friendships along the way.

Golden Kite Honor (2026)

256 pages

4.1/5 Goodreads · 671 ratings

$24.99Save 5%

Summary: Lu embarks on a quest across Lirrin to find her missing grandmother, a famed geozoologist. With Ren, an old friend, she uncovers secrets about mystical creatures and hidden truths. What mysteries lie in Ah-ma's untold stories, and what is Ren concealing? Discover the bonds of friendship and family in this enchanting journey.

Every year

Golden Kite Award Winners by Year

The honorees

Books Recognized by the Golden Kite Award

Sale price

$799

Stones in Water

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 1997

Boys face peril in a work camp; a secret could doom them.

Sale price

$2499

The Paper Dragon

Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 1997

A humble painter must face a fearsome dragon to save his village.

Sale price

$1980

Seedfolks

Chapter Book · Ages 10–15 · 1997

A neglected lot becomes a garden, uniting a fractured community with hope and transformation.

Sale price

$899

To Market, to Market

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1997

A market trip leads to chaos as animals take over the house.

Sale price

$1099

Small Steps

Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 1996

A young girl battles polio, facing fear and finding strength to walk again.

Sale price

$1899

The Moorchild

Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 1996

A changeling girl must confront her past to right a wrong and find her place between two worlds.

Sale price

$1099

Leah's Pony

Board Book · Ages 4–8 · 1996

A girl and her pony face a drought threatening their family farm.

Sale price

$899

Minty

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1996

A young girl's rebellious spirit fuels her dreams of freedom and escape.

Sale price

$899

The Watsons Go to Birmingham—1963

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 1995

A family's road trip leads them into a pivotal moment in history.

Sale price

$999

Catherine, Called Birdy

Chapter Book · Ages 10–15 · 1994

A young woman battles unwanted suitors and family expectations in medieval times.

Sale price

$1099

Kids at Work

Chapter Book · Ages 10–12 · 1994

A photographer's lens exposes child labor horrors, sparking change.

Sale price

$999

Big Fat Hen

Picture Book · Ages 3–6 · 1994

Count along with a playful nursery rhyme filled with colorful hens and chicks.

Sale price

$899

The Ear, the Eye, and the Arm

Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 1994

In 2174 Zimbabwe, three children escape home, facing perilous adventures and sinister forces.

Sale price

$1299

Eleanor Roosevelt

Chapter Book · Ages 10–12 · 1993

Explore Eleanor Roosevelt's journey from childhood to global influence.

Sale price

$1699

By the Light of the Halloween Moon

Picture Book · Ages 6–9 · 1993

A girl's toe-tapping tune awakens hidden Halloween creatures.

Sale price

$2080

Make Lemonade

Chapter Book · Ages 12–18 · 1993

A teen's college dreams hinge on a life-changing babysitting job.

Sale price

$2330

Lives of the Musicians

Chapter Book · Ages 9–11

Uncover the humorous tales of 20 legendary composers and musicians.

Sale price

$1899

Santa Calls

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1993

Three kids race to save Christmas from evil elves at the North Pole.

Sale price

$1799

Chicken Sunday

Picture Book · Ages 6–9 · 1992

A quest for an Easter hat reveals the true meaning of family and understanding.

Sale price

$1599

The Fortune-Tellers

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1992

A carpenter's attempt to become a seer leads to chaos in his village.

Sale price

$1699

The Wright Brothers

Chapter Book · Ages 10–13 · 1991

Two brothers defy gravity, launching the Age of Flight.

Sale price

$1499

The Boys' War

Chapter Book · Ages 10–12 · 1990

Young boys face the brutal realities of the Civil War.

Sale price

$1699

Home Place

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1990

Discover the echoes of a vanished home deep in the woods, where past and present intertwine.

Sale price

$799

The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle

Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 1990

A lone girl faces a deadly sea voyage with a mutinous crew and a murderous captain.

Golden Kite Award Books

The 2026 Golden Kite Award

Golden Kite Award Winners by Year

Books Recognized by the Golden Kite Award

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