Orbis Pictus Award® for Outstanding Nonfiction for Children
The Orbis Pictus Award honors outstanding nonfiction books for children that excel in accuracy, engagement, and educational value for K-8 students.
Funder: National Council of Teachers of English
Due Dates: September 15, 2026 (Book nomination) | December 1, 2026 (Committee application) | December 8, 2026 (Committee membership application process)
Funding Amounts: No direct monetary award; recipients receive a plaque, certificates, and official seals for winning, Honor, and Recommended books.
Summary: Annual award recognizing excellence in nonfiction writing for children, honoring outstanding books published in the United States.
Description
The Orbis Pictus Award® for Outstanding Nonfiction for Children, presented by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), celebrates exceptional nonfiction books for children each year. Established in 1989, the award highlights works that demonstrate accuracy, engaging style, effective organization, and significant curricular contribution for K-8 education. Each cycle, the committee selects one winning book, up to five Honor books, and up to eight Recommended books. Winners are recognized at the NCTE Annual Convention, and awarded books receive official seals to distinguish their excellence.
