Hello! Complete this entry form and upload an electronic manuscript to apply to the 2025 Maya Angelou Book Award.
The Maya Angelou Book Award honors works of poetry and fiction in alternating years. The 2025 award will be given to an exceptional work of contemporary American poetry that enriches the diversity of American literature and demonstrates a commitment to social justice exemplified by Maya Angelou's work and life.
Please note the following eligibility requirements:
Entries must come from publishers. Authors may not submit their works independently.
Works with a publication date in 2024 or a scheduled publication date through November 2025 are eligible.
Only full-length poetry collections will be considered.
We are currently unable to consider translations.
Entrants must be at least 18 years of age and reside in the United States.
Entrants must be available for a two-week reading tour at partnering educational institutions in Missouri. The award winner and partner institutions will collaborate on the tour schedule.
Entrants must not be employees of a Missouri college or university that co-sponsors this award, or an employee of the Kansas City Public Library.
Publishers may be asked for additional copies of titles that are selected for the longlist.
Entries must be received by 11:59 p.m. CDT on April 1, 2025. Please note that entries are not considered complete until an electronic manuscript has been received by the committee.
