Supporting Excellence in Literature for Children Ages 9-12 Year Olds
The Judy Lopez Memorial Award is granted annually, and is in remembrance of Judy Lopez, a bookseller and founding member of the Los Angeles Chapter of the Women’s National Book Association. When Judy passed away, her family wished to honor her memory by continuing the goal of encouraging reading in children. The Judy Lopez Foundation was formed by Judy’s parents, Ralph and Desda Slottow, with her brother, Jeff Slottow, Santa Monica Library Children’s Librarian Ami Kirby, and volunteer Hadassa K. Gilbert. The first award was presented in 1986, and each year it is given to the author of the medal-winning book.
The award is granted for works of literary excellence, and is judged by a panel of librarians, educators, and publishing professionals. The winning author receives a signature engraved bronze medal, originally sculpted by Alex Shagin and modeled after Judy Lopez’ daughter, who was then 9 years old.
The Judy Lopez Memorial Award Committee is proud to administer this prestigious national award, and invites you to consider donating to support children’s literature.
SELECTION PROCESS
SELECTION COMMITTEE:
The Judy Lopez Memorial Award Selection Committee is comprised of educators, teachers, librarians, booksellers, authors, and other book professionals who work with children or have knowledge in children’s literature (for ages 9–12.)
The committee is comprised of six to twelve individuals, who read widely January through May, communicate via online platform, and meet virtually, and in person. If you are interested in serving on the committee, or would like more information, please email: kidzlib@gmail.com.
SUBMISSIONS:
The selection process opens October 15, and closes January 15. Winners are announced in May. For further information, or to submit your work, please email your name, email address, submission title, and format to: jlasubmissions@gmail.com.
GUIDELINES:
The Judy Lopez Memorial Award for Children’s Literature is granted for a work of literary excellence for nine to twelve year-olds, written by a citizen or resident of the United States, or North America, published in the United States or Canada in the calendar year that precedes the award year.
ELEGITIBLITY:
- Should be suitable for children ages nine through twelve.
- May be books of any length, genre, or format
- “Citizen or resident of the United States” – citizens may reside outside of the borders of the United States or U.S. Territories.
- Canadian citizens have been recognized, provided the publication has been initially or simultaneously published in the
United States.
- “Published in the United States” – initially or simultaneously published in the United States.
- Once an author has received the Medal, all future works are ineligible for consideration.
- The Newbery Medalist is the only award which is ineligible.
- Newbery Honor and all other awards may be considered.
- No self-publications
- Stand-alone sequels are acceptable for consideration; dependent sequels are not.
The Judy Lopez memorial award is part of WNBA- LA, a 501 C3 non profit. All donations are tax-deductible.
