Karen Cushman Late Bloomer Award
The Karen Cushman Late Bloomer Award supports unpublished children’s book creators over 50 who are working on new projects, recognizing late-blooming talent in children’s literature.
Funder: Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Work-in-Progress Awards, Karen Cushman Late Bloomer category)
Funding Amounts: $500 cash award plus free tuition to any SCBWI conference (excludes travel/lodging/expenses)
Summary: Recognizes and supports unpublished children’s book authors or author/illustrators over age 50 working on works-in-progress.
Key Information: Must be an SCBWI member and not traditionally published in children's literature.
Description
The Karen Cushman Late Bloomer Award, presented by the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), honors unpublished authors or author/illustrators aged 50 and above who are working on children’s literature. Established by Newbery Award winner Karen Cushman and her husband Philip Cushman, this award aims to encourage and support late-blooming talent in the field. One winner is selected from submissions to the SCBWI Work-in-Progress Awards, offering both recognition and tangible support to those embarking on their creative journey later in life.
