Hawaii's keiki have the power to crown their favorite reads as voting kicks off for the 2026 Nēnē Award. Fourth to sixth graders across the Aloha State are being called upon to cast their votes online or at local libraries for the standout chapter book and graphic novel among a selection of 30 nominees.
The Nēnē Award, an annual children’s literature prize, lets young readers choose the winners. “Every spring, students across Hawaiʻi help decide which stories soar to the top,” the Hawaiʻi State Public Library System said. The nominees, selected by the Nēnē Committee, highlight quality storytelling and artwork for young readers.
Voters are encouraged to consider factors such as appeal, plot, character relatability, writing or artwork quality, and thematic depth. This year’s selection aims to engage young readers and spark their interest.
Students have until Wednesday, February 11, to cast their votes. The winning titles will be announced on the Nēnē Award website. The Hawaiʻi State Public Library System added, “Mahalo for reading, voting, and supporting children's literature in Hawaiʻi!”
