2026 Grateful American Book Prize Now Accepting Submissions
Award Honors Outstanding American History Books for Middle‑Grade Readers
The Grateful American Book Prize is now accepting submissions for exceptional American history books that ignite curiosity and inspire readers ages 11–15.
Each year, the Prize honors outstanding historical fiction, nonfiction, and biographies that bring the American story to life for middle‑grade audiences. Eligible titles must be traditionally published between August 1, 2025, and July 31, 2026.
Founded by David Bruce Smith and the late Dr. Bruce Cole, former Chairman of the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Prize was created to address a growing need for engaging history education. Thought‑provoking books, they believed, can spark a lifelong appreciation for America’s past.
Award Highlights
- Grand Prize: $13,000, a lifetime membership to The New York Historical, and a commemorative silver medallion designed by artist Clarice Smith
- Two Honorable Mentions: $500 each and a commemorative silver medallion
Authors and publishers are encouraged to submit works that make history vivid, accessible, and meaningful for young readers. Self‑published books are not eligible.
Submission deadline: Friday, July 31, 2026.
Submit online via the Grateful American Book Prize Submission Form.
For more information, visit the submission page or contact:
Grateful American Book Prize
info@gratefulamericanbookprize.org | 703‑688‑2233




