The Young Hoosier Book Award Program encourages self-selected reading among elementary and middle school/junior high school students. 


 Young Hoosier Book Award Participation & Voting

Voting Eligibility

Students in Indiana are eligible to read and vote on Young Hoosier Books if they have access to at least *12 of the nominated titles.

*The 12 book requirement only applies to the picture books*

Students may only vote in one eligible program, either their school or public library.

Eligibility Notes for Consideration
For situations of differentiation, adults may allow students to read from a different list. Please be aware that reading from a list above the intended level may have content that is not recommended for younger students. Students may either read or listen to nominated titles to count toward voting requirements.

 

Voting Resources

Current Resources

YHBA 2026-2027 Resources

 

Firefly Award logo medium

Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award - Learn More!

The Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award is an initiative of the Indiana Center for the Book.  This state award is administered by the Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Committee made up of professionals in Indiana including teachers, librarians, caregivers, and project coordinators; all of whom are involved in early childhood development.  Picture books serve an important role in the first years of the life of a child.  The purpose of this award is to encourage parents, caregivers, and very young children to interact together with exceptional picture books. Each year, Children ages 0-5 are encouraged to vote for one of five nominated titles.

Voting for the 2026 Award Cycle will be open until July 31, 2026.

Previous Years

Congratulations to the 2024 - 2025 YHBA Winners!

2024-2025
Picture Book Winners
 
2024-2025
Intermediate Winners
 
2024-2025
Middle Grade Winners