Barnes & Noble Announces Annual Children’s & Young Adult Book Awards Winners

The Bakery Dragon by Devin Elle Kurtz Crowned Overall Winner

New York, NY – August 7, 2025 – Barnes & Noble announced the winners of their annual Children’s & YA Book Awards at a live event tonight hosted in New York City. The Bakery Dragon, written and illustrated by Devin Elle Kurtz, is the Overall Winner as well as the winner of the Picture Book category. Vanya and the Wild Hunt by Sangu Mandanna took the lead in the Young Reader category and Don’t let the Forest In by CG Drews triumphed in Young Adult.

“With so many excellent new children’s books published each year, narrowing down this list always ignites passionate debate among our booksellers,” said James Daunt, CEO of Barnes & Noble. “This year, Barnes & Noble booksellers across the country have cast their votes and these three exceptional works came out as the clear winners. We look forward to elevating these terrific authors and expanding nationwide the young audiences entertained and inspired by their books. The Bakery Dragon, a delightful story brought to life by the author’s luminous illustrations, belongs on every young child’s bookshelf.”

The bookseller is proud to present these annual awards, uplifting new voices and outstanding talent in children’s publishing. The winners in each category, including the Overall Winner, were selected from a shortlist of 18 new titles proposed by Barnes & Noble booksellers who specialize in children’s literature. Titles are eligible if they are one of the author’s early works. The company prides itself on seeking out emerging talent, introducing outstanding new authors to the widest audience.

Here is what Barnes & Noble booksellers are saying about the Overall Winner, The Bakery Dragon:

“The cinematic, glowy and fantastical illustrations are a treat, and the story is cozy and sweet, perfect for read-aloud story time or right before bed.” — Laura J., Burlington, VT

“Devin Elle Kurtz's masterful work combines beautiful illustrations with a moving message about generosity, and the reminder that there are more important things than gold. It is an incredibly important book to me, and I feel so privileged to be able to recommend it to others.” — Skylar M., Lynchburg, VA

“The Bakery Dragon is a delightful story that reveals that gold is not always what it seems; instead, it emphasizes the importance of how we use it. Ultimately, kindness, sharing, and friendship are the true treasures.” — Olja B., Buffalo, NY

“A story about an adorable little dragon with an unending love of treats? Yes, please.” — Amanda P., Columbus, GA

 

The Children’s & YA Book Awards sit alongside the Barnes & Noble Book of the Year and Discover Prize programs, connecting avid readers with the best books. This year, the awards cap off the bookseller’s perennial Summer Reading event where children in 1^st through 6^th grade who read any eight books can receive one free book at the end of the summer.

Picture Book Winner: The Bakery Dragon

Ember, more adorable than formidable, feels like he’ll never measure up to all the bigger, scarier dragons in town. A chance meeting helps him find his true calling — and find joy in gentleness and generosity instead of flames and fright. Gorgeously illustrated and full of characters you’ll want to spend more time with, this is a story for all ages.

“Devin Elle Kurtz's stunning illustrations are a true treat for the senses — I can practically smell Ember's creations through the pages,” said Stephanie Pinheiro, Campaign Manager of Children’s & YA Books, Barnes & Noble. “The Bakery Dragon is a cozy tale with a heart of gold, set in a world readers will want to return to again and again. I’m thrilled to be able to introduce more readers to this wonderful story. Even better, we won’t have to wait long for more Ember — the sequel, The Bakery Dragon and the Fairy Cake, comes out this October!”

Young Reader Winner: Vanya and the Wild Hunt by Sangu Mandanna

Before her family was attacked by a mysterious creature, before she was brought into a new world full of magic and monsters, Vanya was just a kid who felt like she never fit in. Now it’s up to her to save the only place she ever felt accepted. This action-packed fantasy adventure, inspired by Indian mythology and British folklore, shines with vivid world-building and a relatable cast of characters.

“Looking for the perfect book for the kid who loves Percy Jackson and is looking for a new fantasy series? Vanya and the Wild Hunt is it. A wonderful, fast-paced story with relatable, diverse characters, mythological creatures and a mysterious magic school.” — Stephanie G., New York, NY

“I love this book for the neurodivergent representation, the lovable characters, the fantastical creatures and the excellent story telling. It left me wanting more and can’t wait to read the sequel.” — Amber K., Salem, OR

Young Adult Winner: Don’t Let the Forest In by CG Drews

Boarding school best friends Andrew and Thomas face down macabre monsters every night — ones they unintentionally created — in this unsettling psychological horror novel. Meanwhile, they must also fight all the normal teenage battles, portrayed realistically and with compassion. A must-read that’s as tender as it is terrifying.

“This book grabbed me by the throat; I could not put it down or stop talking about it for months.” — Lucien D., Virginia Beach, VA

“Powerful. Visceral. FANTASTIC. Easily one of my favorite books, on par with other award winners like The Spirit Bares Its Teeth. It's one of the best YA books I've ever read.” — David F., Lone Tree, CO

“I'm OBSESSED with this book. Atmospheric, moody, gothic and enthralling are just the beginning of how I would describe it — I could go on and on.” — Hannah G., Durham, NC

 

Customers can find the Barnes & Noble Children’s & YA Book Awards Winners and Finalists on display at their local Barnes & Noble and on bn.com. They can also join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, using the hashtag #BNBookAwards.

 

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