BGHB Submission Guidelines

First awarded in 1967, the Boston Globe–Horn Book Awards recognize and reward excellence in literature for children and young adults.

1. Books must be published in the United States between June 1, 2025, and May 31, 2026. First U.S. editions of books previously published elsewhere are eligible, but reissued editions, textbooks, e-books, and audiobooks will not be considered, nor will manuscripts.

2. Judges will select one winner and may designate up to two honor books in each of the following categories:

• Fiction and Poetry
• Nonfiction
• Picture Book

3. Books should be submitted by publishers, although the judges reserve the right to honor any eligible book. While we do not limit the number of titles a publisher may submit, we urge publishers to use their best judgment and send only those titles that they believe are distinguished enough to warrant consideration.

4. For 2025-2026: Publishers should submit books in pdf form via email (or other electronic methods) to bghb at hbook.com and kflynn at hbook. com. Please clearly indicate BGHB Award submissions in the subject line and include a complete list of all submitted titles with their publication dates. Simultaneous submissions of available audiobook downloads would be welcome. 

5. Publishers are urged to send their submissions as soon as possible after publication. No books will be accepted after May 15, 2026. There will be no extensions to this deadline. 

6. In early 2026, the committee may contact publishers to request physical copies of specific titles.

7. Winners and Honor Books will be announced in June 2026. The awards ceremony will be held in the fall of 2026.

For more information, contact the Boston Globe–Horn Book Awards administrator at bghb at hbook.com.