The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) has created the annual Spark Award to celebrate “excellence in a children’s book published through a non-traditional publishing route.” SCBWI-member writers and illustrators can submit books.
One winning book and one honor book will earn a special seal, a plaque and get special promotion through SCBWI’s online bookstore. Eligibility is open to any “independently-published a board book, picture book, chapter book, middle grade, or young adult novel through an established self- publishing enterprise or individually self-published.”
The winning book will be picked by a panel of judges from the professional community. Here’s more about the award:
Submissions must be submitted in traditionally bound form, contain an ISBN number, and provide evidence of Copyright registration. Entries may not have been previously published in any print or digital form prior to the self-published form and SCBWI reserves the right to disqualify books published by enterprises that we believe, in our discretion, operate in a predatory or unprofessional manner. One winner and one honor book will be chosen by a panel of industry professionals and will focus on quality of writing and concept, quality of illustrations (if applicable), professional presentation, and editing and design.