The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) proudly announces the winners and honor recipients of the 2026 Crystal Kite Awards, recognising outstanding books created by SCBWI members across fifteen international regions.
Unique among literary honors, the Crystal Kite Awards are peer-voted, making them a meaningful accolade within the children’s book community.
Each winning title showcases exceptional storytelling, imaginative illustration, and creative excellence, representing the very best of children’s literature produced by SCBWI members worldwide.
See the all winner and honor recipients HERE.
Winner—Australia, New Zealand, and Oceania
Grandmother from the East, Grandmother from the West
Jacinta Liu & Freda Chiu
A joyous celebration of multicultural identity and the many ways our grandparents shape who we are, from debut Chinese-Australian author Jacinta Liu and acclaimed illustrator Freda Chiu. I have two grandmothers. One with brown eyes, and one with blue eyes. One makes dumplings, and one bakes bread. They are my grandmothers. One lives in the East, and one lives in the West. Read More
Honor—Australia, New Zealand, and Oceania
Emmie Builds Something New
Marjorie Crosby-Fairall
In the enchanting world of Emmie, the attic is more than just a storage space—it’s her kingdom! Surrounded by dusty forgotten treasures, Emmie is a clever inventor who transforms ordinary objects into extraordinary machines, each one a testament to her creativity and engineering prowess. But when a mischievous black-and-white cat intrudes upon her realm, Emmie must put her skills to the test. Determined to reclaim her domain, she devises increasingly inventive contraptions to outsmart her furry foe. Read More and Here