The Anisfield-Wolf Book Awards

OH-12 has been highlighting books by minority authors with our members' reviews to better understand racism in this country. As it happens, there is a treasure trove of such works based here in Ohio (Cleveland).

Recently, PBS/WOSU-TV ran a piece on the Anisfield- Wolf Book Awards. The show was hosted by Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr., who also is the chair of the committee selecting annual award winners. The Anisfield-Wolf Book Awards (AWBA) is the "only juried American book prize focusing on works that address racism and diversity." (emphasis added) Their purpose was/is to "build bridges between people using the power of the word." It was established in 1935 by Cleveland poet and philanthropist (and heiress) Edith Anisfield-Wolf "to reflect her family's passion for social justice." While predominantly populated by works about and by African Americans, the stories of others are included as well: Native Americans, physically challenged Americans, Hispanic Americans, etc. The full collection of the AWBA winners is available at the Cleveland Public Library, but of course these books can be borrowed from most libraries or purchased at most book stores.

The first awards were made in 1936 and continue to the present. Thus far, 248 books and Lifetime Achievement Awards have been conferred. Many authors you will recognize, others not so much. Interestingly, many of the awards have been made to young writers early in their careers, which helped them produce other works. They also have teaching units and materials available, among other things. Check out their website: Anisfield-Wolf.org.

The full list of awards can be found at this link. Enjoy the reading!

~ From OH12 member Jackie Bird