The Coretta Scott King Awards, 1970-2009

This comprehensive guide collects four decades of distinguished African American children's literature recognized by one of publishing's most prestigious honors. Smith curates the complete history of Coretta Scott King Award winners and honor books, providing essential context about the authors, illustrators, and cultural significance behind each selection. The volume serves as both a celebration of literary excellence and an invaluable resource for understanding the evolution of Black storytelling in youth literature.

What makes this collection particularly compelling is how it documents the expanding scope of African American experiences represented in children's publishing over time. Educators building diverse classroom libraries, parents seeking meaningful stories, and young readers exploring their literary heritage will all find this reference indispensable. Beyond simply listing award recipients, Smith illuminates the cultural conversations and artistic breakthroughs that shaped four generations of groundbreaking children's literature.