Cardinal Cup Award

See our 2023 Winners! | Click here to see our past winners and honor books

The Jefferson Cup was established in 1982 to honor a distinguished biography, historical fiction or American history book for young people. From 2012-2021 two books were selected: one for geared toward young adult readers and one for young readers. Beginning in 2022, the Committee returned to the original model, honoring the most distinguished biography, historical fiction, or American history book for young people.

The Jefferson Cup Committee’s goal is to promote reading about America’s past; to encourage the quality writing of United States history, biography and historical fiction for young people, and to recognize authors in these disciplines. The Cardinal Cup Committee selects the winning title.

Want to Submit a Book?

If you wish to submit a book for consideration by the Cardinal Cup Committee, please visit our submission guidelines page.