2026 Grateful American Book Prize Call for Submissions
The Grateful American Book Prize is now accepting submissions for outstanding historical fiction, non-fiction, and biographies for readers, ages 11 to 15. Eligible books must be published between August 1, 2025, and July 31, 2026.
Founded by David Bruce Smith and the late Dr. Bruce Cole, the Prize seeks to promote engagement with American history among young readers. The winner will receive a $13,000 award, a lifetime membership to The New York Historical, and a medallion designed by artist Clarice Smith. Two Honorable Mention recipients will receive $500, each, and the medallion.
According to Smith, the teaching of history has declined in recent decades, leaving many young people unfamiliar with foundational figures such as George Washington and Benjamin Franklin. In response, and in partnership with the late Dr. Bruce Cole, former Chairman of the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Prize was established to inspire historical literacy. As Dr. Cole observed, “we are a country of historical amnesiacs,” and engaging books may help address this challenge.
Submissions must be made online via the Grateful American Book Prize Submission Form by Friday, July 31, 2026. Self-published books do not qualify. For further details, visit the submission page.
Media Contact:
Grateful American Book Prize
info@gratefulamericanbookprize.org
703-688-2233
FINAL CALL!
Don’t Miss Your Chance to Be Part of History!
Submit Your Book for the 2025 Grateful American Book Prize
Deadline: Thursday, July 31, 2025
The Grateful American Book Prize is accepting submissions for its prestigious 2025 award. We recognize outstanding historical fiction and nonfiction that captivates young readers, celebrating high-quality books and biographies about pivotal American history and figures.
Prize Details:
- Grand Prize: A $13,000 cash award (commemorating the 13 original Colonies), a lifetime membership to The New York Historical, and a silver medallion designed by renowned artist Clarice Smith.
- Honorable Mentions (Two): $500 each and the silver medallion.
Key Eligibility Requirements:
- Publication Date: Books must be published between August 1, 2024, and July 31, 2025.
- Target Audience: Writing style must appeal to 11-to-15-year-olds (7th to 9th grade levels).
- Content: Must focus on important American historical people and events. Historical accuracy is paramount; even fictitious stories must be thoroughly researched.
- Publisher: No self-published books will be accepted.
- Edition: Prior editions are not eligible.
How to Enter:
- Submission Method: Submit your book via our online form.
- Entry Fee: Free to enter.
- Submission Deadline: Thursday, July 31, 2025.
About the Grateful American Book Prize
David Bruce Smith’s Grateful American Foundation was founded on President’s Day 2014, with a mission to restore enthusiasm in American history for kids—and adults.
The Grateful American Book Prize was co-founded by David Bruce Smith and Dr. Bruce Cole, the former chairman of the National Endowment for the Humanities, in 2015. It is awarded annually to the authors of books for children, ages 11 to 15; they can be works of historical fiction, fiction, non-fiction, and biographies. “We are looking for excellence in writing and storytelling.”
The Ultimate Opportunity for Historical Storytellers!
The Grateful American Book Prize is now accepting submissions for its annual award, recognizing exceptional historical fiction and non-fiction books that captivate young readers. The annual book prize is awarded for high quality, 7th to 9th grade level historical fiction, fiction, non-fiction, and biographies about important people—and events—in America’s History.
Key Eligibility Requirements:
• Books published between August 1, 2024 – July 31, 2025
• No self-published books; writing style must appeal to 11-to-15-year-olds
• Historic accuracy is paramount; fictitious stories must be well-researched
Important Details:
• Deadline for entry: July 31, 2025
• Prior editions are not eligible
• Submit your book via our online form
About the Grateful American Book Prize
David Bruce Smith’s Grateful American Foundation was founded on President’s Day 2014, with a mission to restore enthusiasm in American history for kids—and adults. The organization seeks to provide interest, insight, and to increase awareness about the people and events that influenced the founding of the United States. Smith has boundless enthusiasm for American History and a limitless longing to share it with America’s schoolchildren. So, it’s no wonder that the author and publisher co-created the Grateful American Book Prize the following year.
The Grateful American Book Prize was co-founded by David Bruce Smith and Dr. Bruce Cole, the former chairman of the National Endowment for the Humanities, in 2015. It is awarded annually to the authors of books for children, ages 11 to 15; they can be works of historical fiction, fiction, non-fiction, and biographies. “We are looking for excellence in writing and storytelling.”
The Prize consists of a $13,000 cash award in commemoration of the 13 original Colonies, and a lifetime membership to The New York Historical. In addition, the winner receives a silver medallion designed by Smith’s mother, the renowned artist, Clarice Smith. The two “Honorable Mentions” get $500 each and the silver medallion.
Learn more about previous Grateful American Book Prize Winners and Honorable Mentions >
