Established in 1991, the Children’s Africana Book Award (CABA) is presented annually to the authors and
illustrators of the best children’s and young adult books on Africa published or republished in the U.S.. CABA has three major objectives (1) to encourage the publication of children’s and young adult books that contribute to a better understanding of African societies and issues, (2) to recognize literary excellence, and (3) to acknowledge the research achievements of outstanding authors and illustrators.
Africa Access, the Outreach Council of the African Studies Association (ASA), and Howard University Center for African Studies jointly administer the award(s). The awards are presented in two categories: Picture Books and Chapter Books.
The award includes an honorarium, travel and accommodations for the CABA celebration weekend, and plaque presented in Washington D.C. each spring.
Eligibility
- Books should be suitable for children and young adults ages 4-18.
- A significant portion of the book’s content should be about Africa.
- Books must be copyrighted in the year preceding the awards ceremony.
- Books must be available in hardback or paperback for purchase in the U.S. and published in English.
- Bi-lingual books that include English are eligible. Translations are eligible in the year first published in English.
Nomination
Email AfricaAccess@aol.com for information on mailing titles.
Nominations should be submitted no later than December 31st of the year the book is published.
Nominations for awards are made directly by publishers, who may nominate as many separate titles for a given year’s competition as they desire. Nominations should be submitted as soon as possible but no later than December 31st of the year the book is published. Each book is read and evaluated by African Studies and Children’s Literature scholars. Reviews of nominated titles are posted on Africa Access Review.
Review a Book:
We are seeking African studies scholars with content knowledge to review children’s books. Knowledge of children’s literature is not necessary. Basic guidelines will be provided. Your reviews help educators, librarians, and parents make educated choices about the books they purchase and share. Your review also helps narrow the pool of CABA finalists. Sign up for a review HERE.
To Order Award Seals:
Award Seals are available to award-winning publishers. The cost for adhesive award seals depends on the quantity ordered. Over 50, the seals cost $0.20 each; 50 or fewer seals cost $0.50 each. A free electronic version of the seal is available to award-winning publishers. Email AfricaAccess@aol.com.