National Council for the Social Studies is pleased to announce its call for nominations of books eligible to receive the Septima Clark Book Award. This award is presented to the most distinguished young reader non-fiction books depicting women's issues globally.

2024 Awards

Nominations should be submitted and postmarked before October 16, 2023.

Eligibility Criteria:

Non-fiction books with a copyright of 2023 that:

• Are elementary (grades K-6), intermediate/middle (grades 5-8) and secondary (grades 7-12) level titles;
• Deal with and accurately reflect women's issues, perspectives, and stories;
• Are trade or supplementary books rather than textbooks;
• Are thoroughly researched, well-written, and reflect originality; and
• Are published internationally;

How are books evaluated?

Generally, nominated books are evaluated for two key traits:

• Focus on individuals and issues that provide insight into women's issues globally; and
• Avoids patronizing, distorting, and stereotyping in text and illustrations.

In addition, elementary books (grades K-6) are also evaluated for:

• Readability
• Suitability to age level
• Curriculum enhancement
• Illustrations
• Pluralistic values

Intermediate/Middle school books (grades 5-8) are also evaluated for:

• Stylistic excellence
• Suitability to middle-level students
• Curriculum enhancement
• Illustrations
• Exploration of pluralistic values

Secondary books (grades 7-12) are also evaluated for:

• Stylistic excellence
• Suitability
• Scholarship
• Illustrations
• Pluralistic values

Submission Process:

1. Complete the NCSS Carter G. Woodson and Septima Clark Book Awards Publisher Information Form.
2. E-mail/mail a cover letter to each selection subcommittee member. Cover letters must include your name, e-mail address, phone number, and the grade level of each title you are submitting: elementary (grades K-6), middle (grades 5-8), or secondary (grades 7-12).
3. Mail your nominated book to all members of the selection subcommittee (mailing to the NCSS Staff Liaison is no longer required).