The shortlist for the 2026 IODE Violet Downey Book Award were announced last week. Established in 1984, with the first award being presented in 1985, the annual prize is awarded to the best English-language book containing at least 500 words of text, preferably with Canadian content, in a category suitable for children aged 13 and under. A panel composed of IODE members and specialists in the field of children’s literature selects the award-winning book each year. The winner will be announced at IODE Canada's National Annual Business Meeting on Friday, May 29, 2026. The five nominated titles are listed below.
Benny on the Case, written by Wesley King (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers)
The Discovery of Finnegan Wilde, written by Caroline Pignat (Thistledown Press)
A Promise to Protect, written by Nikki Bergstresser (Wandering Fox)
Robot Island, written by Cary Fagan (Tundra Books)
Touching Grass, written by Kristy Jackson, illustrated by Rhael McGregor (HarperCollins Publishers)
To learn more abou the IODE Violet Downey Book Award, visit iode.ca.