The Books for Youth and Young Adult Award was new for the 2024 season, and will celebrate fiction or nonfiction books published in the previous 12 months for middle grade, (ages 8 to 12) up to young adult (ages 13 to 18). Both traditionally-published and self-published books are welcome.

2025 Awards 

(For books published in 2024)

Valerie Sherrard, An Unbalanced Force (DCB Cormorant, 2024)

A high-stakes young adult page-turner that keeps readers on edge, Valerie Sherrard blends intrigue, suspense, and emotional depth in a way that is relatable for young readers. With razor-sharp twists and a protagonist who must confront hard truths, this book touches on the complexities of family, deception, and the cost of secrets. Ethan’s relentless pursuit of the truth makes for a worthy hero and as the stakes rise, we are in for quite a ride. The tension is well crafted, keeping readers hooked until the final page. An absolute must-read for YA fans!  

Finalists: 

Bea Waters, Project Human (Almandel Entertainment), Fredericton

Odette Barr, Colleen Landry and Beth Weatherbee, Follow the Goose Butt to Prince Edward Island (Acorn Press), Petit-Cap; illustrated by Odette Barr