Description

The Children’s Literature Assembly Early Career Award recognizes the work of one early career individual who shows extraordinary promise as a researcher and leader in the field of children’s literature. At its inception, the award was given every other year. Beginning in 2026, the award will be given annually.
Nominees must have graduated with a doctoral degree no more than seven years prior to the nomination date.

Submitted materials for each nominee as well as the initial letters will be reviewed and voted upon by all committee members. Committee members can include both Board members and regular membership members. Members of the committee are appointed by the Board.

2026 Call for Applications

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Deadline: September 1, 2026
Nominees must meet the following criteria:

● be an active scholar of children’s literature; and
● have graduated with a doctoral degree no more than seven years prior to the nomination date.

Eligible members may either self-nominate or be nominated by a CLA member.

CLA Early Career Award
Congratulations to the 2025 Early Career Award recipient: Rachelle Kuehl