Breaking barriers,

book by book.


Writing Contests

All children deserve to see themselves and their lives represented in books. We’re excited to share that Strive Publishing and Free Spirit Publishing have partnered up once again to bring you the Black Voices in Children’s Literature Writing Contest, now with eligibility expanded to the entire US.


2023 Winners

Trenise Ferreira

Summer Hair


2022 Winners

Yvette R. Murray

Gullah Color Wheel

Rose McNeill

Black Boy, Keep Your Head High (2nd)

Joy Jones

The Sky Is Not Blue (3rd)


2021 Winners

Carmena Fleury

The Birthday Party with No Birthday Cake (1st)

Sherrie Fernandez-Williams

Tiara and Kiara Movin' and Groovin'

Elizabeth Davis

Hair Story (3rd)


2020 Winners

Crown Shepherd

Black Girl, Black Girl (1st)

Photo by Tiffany Townsend

Sagirah Shahid

Wave Your Glove, Like a Rainbow Between Clouds (2nd)

Sue Smith-Grier

Tamika’s Cool Adventure

(3rd)


2019 Winners

Mélina Mangal.png

Mélina Mangal

Jayden’s Impossible Garden

Dr. Artika Tyner.png

Dr. Artika Tyner

Kofi Loves Music

Marit G. Woods

I Love Me

Arielle Dance

Miss Mimi’s Welcomes All

Marit G. Woods.png

Mikhayla Smith Robinson

Calm Baby,

Breathe Baby