Texas State University College of Education developed the Tomás Rivera Mexican American Children’s Book Award to honor authors and illustrators who create literature that depicts the Mexican American experience. The award was established in 1995 and was named in honor of Dr. Tomás Rivera, a distinguished alumnus of Texas State University.

Criteria for Eligibility

This award will be given annually to the author/illustrator of the most distinguished book for children and young adults that authentically reflects the lives and experiences of Mexican Americans in the United States.

Criteria for the selection of a winner will include:

• The book will be written for children and young adults (0-16 years).
• The text and illustrations will be of highest quality.
• The portrayal/representations of Mexican Americans will be accurate and engaging, avoid stereotypes, and reflect rich characterization.
• The book may be fiction or non- fiction.

Selection Process

• Selections will be made from books nominated.
• Nominations are accepted from authors, illustrators, publishers, and the public at large.
• The deadline for nominations for this award will be November 1st of the year of publication.
• A regional committee will narrow the list of nominated books.
• A national committee will select the final winner.
• If no book nominated is considered to meet the listed criteria, no award will be presented.
• The award will be announced by February 15th of the following year.
• The award will be conferred at a celebration during Hispanic Heritage month of the following year.
• Children’s input will be solicited on the nominated books.