Sydney Taylor Book Awards Celebrate Excellence in Jewish Children's Literature

The Sydney Taylor Book Awards, presented by the Association of Jewish Libraries, recently recognized outstanding contributions to Jewish children's literature during a virtual livecast from Chicago. The gold medal for middle-grade readers was awarded to Marcella Pixley for her novel-in-verse, “Neshama,” which tells the story of a sixth-grade girl who connects with the ghosts of her Jewish ancestors. The award committee praised the book as “a lyrical, deeply Jewish story about identity, grief, and resilience.”

Tales of ghosts, grief and Shabbat joy win top prizes in Jewish children’s literature

In the young adult category, Abby White's “D.J. Rosenblum Becomes the G.O.A.T,” a coming-of-age mystery, received the gold medal. This narrative follows a girl approaching her bat mitzvah who seeks to prove that her cousin did not die by suicide, blending emotional depth with humor. The picture book award went to Suzy Ultman for “Shabbat Shalom: Let’s Rest and Reset,” which is noted for its playful art and succinct text, marking a significant achievement as potentially the first board book to win this honor.

Tales of ghosts, grief and Shabbat joy win top prizes in Jewish children’s literature

The Body-of-Work award was presented posthumously to Uri Shulevitz, a prominent figure in Jewish children's literature, who passed away in 2025. The committee recognized his contributions as foundational, highlighting his ability to illuminate Jewish culture while reflecting universal experiences. Shulevitz's notable works include “The Golem” and “The Travels of Benjamin of Tudela,” which draw from his Jewish roots and historical narratives.

Tales of ghosts, grief and Shabbat joy win top prizes in Jewish children’s literature

Melanie Koss, chair of the award committee, emphasized that this year's winners exemplify excellence through vibrant storytelling and rich perspectives that foster empathy and understanding of Jewish culture. The awards will be presented in June at the AJL’s annual conference in Evanston, Illinois, celebrating the achievements of authors and illustrators who contribute to the literary landscape for children and teens.

Tales of ghosts, grief and Shabbat joy win top prizes in Jewish children’s literature

While the awards celebrate Jewish literature, some critics argue that the focus on specific cultural narratives may limit broader representation within children's literature. However, supporters maintain that such recognition is essential for preserving and promoting Jewish identity and experiences in literature.

Tales of ghosts, grief and Shabbat joy win top prizes in Jewish children’s literature

The winners of the Sydney Taylor Book Awards will be honored at the AJL’s annual conference, where discussions on the future of Jewish children's literature are expected to take place. Additionally, the AJL announced Jessica Russak-Hoffman as the recipient of its new manuscript award for “How to Catch a Mermaid (When You’re Scared of the Sea),” further highlighting the ongoing development of Jewish narratives for young readers.

Tales of ghosts, grief and Shabbat joy win top prizes in Jewish children’s literature

• “a lyrical, deeply Jewish story about identity, grief, and resilience.” — Sydney Taylor Book Awards Committee

Tales of ghosts, grief and Shabbat joy win top prizes in Jewish children’s literature

• “This year’s winners and honorees exemplify excellence in Jewish children’s literature through vibrant storytelling and rich perspectives that foster empathy, understanding, and a deep appreciation for culture and community,” — Melanie Koss, Chair of the Award Committee

Tales of ghosts, grief and Shabbat joy win top prizes in Jewish children’s literature

• “illuminate Jewish culture and reflect universal experience,” — Sydney Taylor Book Awards Committee on Uri Shulevitz

Tales of ghosts, grief and Shabbat joy win top prizes in Jewish children’s literature