The winners of the 2025 Black Authors Matter Children’s Book Awards will be revealed on Saturday, October 25, during the 2025 National Black Book Festival (NBBF) in Houston. The announcement will take place at 10:45 a.m. CST through a live-streamed broadcast on the NBBF Facebook page.

Established in 2022, the awards recognize children’s authors who are producing outstanding and high-quality books. Both independent and traditionally published writers were invited to participate, with nearly 100 submissions received across eight categories between January 1 and June 3.

• Award categories include:
• African Diaspora
• Best Illustrator
• Coloring Books / Workbooks / Activity Books / Graphic Novels
• Educational
• Motivational
• Religious / Faith
• Social Commentary / Justice
• Age 13+

Finalists were announced on August 12 during NBBF’s live-stream show Black Authors Matter TV, which showcased all of the nominated authors and their works. The video of this announcement is available online for viewing.

In addition to category winners, an overall grand prize winner has been chosen from among the finalists and will be announced at the festival. The grand prize includes a cash award.

Now in its 18th year, the National Black Book Festival continues to highlight literary excellence and community engagement. This year’s festival will take place at Fallbrook Church’s Brook Sports Facility, located at 12512 Walters Road in Northwest Houston. The event will feature more than 100 authors from across the United States, including over 30 children’s authors, representing more than 20 genres.

Attendees can enjoy author exhibits, seminars, featured author sessions, and the Saturday Children’s Festival—all free and open to the public.