Sydney Prizes
A Sydney Taylor Book Award is a prestigious recognition that highlights outstanding titles for children and young adults published in the previous year. The selection committee chooses the winning books in a number of categories, including those that show exemplary literary qualities, have an engaging theme or storyline, and are appropriate for different age levels. Gold and silver seals may be ordered for these books, which are a great addition to any library or home collection. Find the full list of Sydney Taylor Book Award winners and honors for 2024.
The Founders’ Prize:
This prize was established by Dr. Morris and Elana Wagman to honor that student who has done unusual service to the department. This prize is awarded to a graduating senior who has demonstrated both academic excellence and loyalty to high ideals.
The Sidney Hook Award for Writing About Ethics
Named after philosopher and writer Sidney Hook, this award goes to writers who have written about ethics in compelling and accessible ways. The winning essay should illuminate ethical dilemmas and inspire readers to make good choices in everyday life.
The Neilma Sidney Short Story Prize
Established in 2007 and supported by the Malcolm Robertson Foundation, the Overland Neilma Sidney Short Story Prize seeks outstanding original short fiction of up to 3000 words themed loosely around the notion of ‘travel’. This year’s judges, Patrick Lenton, Alice Bishop and Sara Saleh, have selected a shortlist of eight pieces from over 500 entries. They have also chosen a winner and two runners-up, and we would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their hard work and commitment to the integrity of the blind-judging process.
The Sydney Taylor Prize for Younger Readers
The 2024 Sydney Taylor Book Award Committee has selected Richard Ho and Lynn Scurfield’s Two New Years, Mari Lowe’s The Dubious Pranks of Shaindy Goodman, and Elana K Arnold’s The Blood Years as this year’s winners of the Sydney Taylor Prize for Younger Readers. Find more about each book, see AJL’s review, and order Sydney Taylor seals on our AJL Shops page.