IT’S PURPLE TIME
Early Bird Deadline: March 1, 2026 • Final Deadline: May 2, 2026
Purple Dragonfly Contest winners will be notified during the last week of August for each year’s contest.
ABOUT
Our prestigious book award contest is dedicated exclusively to children’s books. We proudly accept printed books, audiobooks, and eBooks—with 59 diverse categories designed specifically for these publishing formats—ensuring every outstanding story has a place to shine.
In addition, we welcome stage and theatrical productions, as well as music and sound recordings created for young audiences.
Earning a coveted Purple Dragonfly Book Award provides authors, illustrators, producers, and creators with immediate credibility, valuable media exposure, and powerful opportunities to boost sales and visibility. Best of all, when children and parents spot the Purple Dragonfly seal, they instantly recognize it as a mark of excellence and a highly acclaimed, trusted work.
HOW TO ENTER
To get started, click on the “Enter Now” button below.
A separate form must be completed for each item format that you submit, but the same form can be used if book is entered into multiple categories. Simply change the quantity to indicate the number of categories for the item format, then click “Add to Cart".”
Click here to print a list of categories.
If entering more than one book, after the form is completed for the first book, click on the “Add to Cart” button and then begin the process again.
You will receive a confirmation email once you've completed your order. Print out a copy of this email and include it with your mailed submissions.
Entries accepted in 3 formats: printed book, audiobook, ebook.
Printed:
$70 per category on or before March 1, 2026.
$75 per category after March 1, 2026.
Audiobook:
$70 per category on or before March 1, 2026.
$75 per category after March 1, 2026.
eBook:
$65 per category on or before March 1, 2026.
$70 per category after March 1, 2026.
DEADLINES
Early Bird Deadline: March 1, 2026.
Final Deadline: May 2, 2026.
Submission Postmark Deadline: Submissions must be postmarked no later than May 2, 2026. Any submission postmarked after May 2, 2026, will be entered into the following year’s contest.
Purple Dragonfly Contest winners will be notified during the last week of August for each year’s contest.
Testimonials“Winning first place in the Children's Picture Books category for the Purple Dragonfly Book Awards for Max and Bear, has provided a new level of interest in my book. The credibility that is achieved by winning an award increases the exposure and opportunity for marketing. I am honored and grateful to be part of this special group!”
— Pam Saxelby, author of Max and Bear