Terms and Definitions
Three awards are given annually to recognize and honor books for their distinguished portrayal of people living with a disabling condition.
- younger children, ages 0 to 8
- middle grades, ages 9 to 13
- teens, ages 14 to 18.
- The person with the disability may be the protagonist or a secondary character.
- Definition of disability. Dr. Schneider has intentionally allowed for a broad interpretation by her wording, the book “must portray some aspect of living with a disability, whether the disability is physical, mental, or emotional.” This allows each committee to decide on the qualifications of particular titles. Books with death as the main theme are generally disqualified.
- The books must be published in English. The award may be given posthumously.
- Term of eligibility extends to publications from the preceding year, e.g. 2013 awards are given to titles published in 2012.
- When a picture book wins the award, the $5000.00 will be divided equally between the author and illustrator.