- Categories:
- Appreciation
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- Books
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- International
- Date change rule:
- Every November 7–13
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- 📚
National Book Award Week shines a spotlight on American literature every November 7–13. This annual observance culminates in the prestigious National Book Awards, recognizing outstanding works across various genres. Dive into new books, celebrate impactful authors, and engage with the vibrant literary community.
Want to sponsor National Book Award Week? Learn how
Expected National Book Award Week Deals
While National Book Award Week isn’t typically a period for widespread commercial deals, it’s a prime time for literary organizations, publishers, and independent bookstores to offer special programming. Look for virtual author talks, discounted book bundles from participating publishers like Penguin Random House and Simon & Schuster, and exclusive merchandise from the National Book Foundation. Independent bookstores, such as Powell’s Books and Strand Bookstore, often host special readings, signing events, and promotions on award-nominated titles. Online retailers like Bookshop.org may feature curated collections. We will update this page with confirmed live events and programs as November 7 approaches.
Platform Guide for National Book Award Week
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #NationalBookAwardWeek. Share insights on the publishing industry or celebrate your favorite literary professionals.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalBookAwardWeek. Join live discussions about nominated books, authors, and the awards ceremony.
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalBookAwardWeek. Share photos of your favorite books, author interviews, or creative content inspired by literature.
National Book Award Week Hero
Harold K. Guinzburg
History of National Book Award Week
The National Book Award was established in 1936 by the American Booksellers Association (A.B.A.). In May 1936, the first National Book Awards were presented at the annual convention of the American Booksellers Association, a month after the New York Times reported the establishment of a “new annual award.” The winners were the authors of four books from 1935, selected by a vote of A.B.A. members. A novel, a biography, and general documentary literature were named “The most outstanding of 1935.” Another novel was awarded “the most original.”
After being abandoned during World War II, it was then restored by three book industry organizations in 1950. Only during the pre-war era were authors outside the U.S. eligible for awards. They are now awarded to American authors for books published for about a year. Currently, the National Book Award is presented to one book (author) annually in each of the five categories: fiction, documentary, poetry, translation, and youth literature.
Before, there were awards in many other categories, but they were removed or included in the current five. The National Book Foundation also awards two-lifetime achievement awards each year: the Medal for Outstanding Contribution to American Literature and the Literary Award for Outstanding Achievement to the American Literary Community.
National Book Award Week timeline
Pre-war awards are announced in the winter, usually in February, and are named after the year of publication.
The “National Book Award” is canceled and replaced by the “American Book Awards” based on the film industry model (Oscar).
The “National” part is re-added to the name.
The non-profit National Book Foundation is established to manage and sponsor the National Book Prize.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Book Award Week
Local businesses, especially independent bookstores, libraries, and cafes, can honor National Book Award Week by hosting special events. Consider organizing author readings, book club discussions featuring past winners, or themed literary nights. Partner with local schools to promote reading challenges or offer discounts on award-nominated titles to encourage engagement with American literature. Display nominated books prominently and create a welcoming atmosphere for book lovers.
National Book Award Week FAQs
When is National Book Award Week?
National Book Award Week 2026 runs from Saturday, November 7, through Friday, November 13, celebrating the best in American literature.
How many categories are there in the National Book Awards?
The National Book Awards currently recognize excellence in five core categories: Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, Translated Literature, and Young People’s Literature.
How many books are published annually in the US?
While exact figures vary, it’s estimated that over 300,000 new books are published in the U.S. each year, encompassing both print and digital formats.
What is the National Book Foundation?
The National Book Foundation is a non-profit organization established in 1989 to administer the National Book Awards and promote the value of literature in American culture.
How to Observe National Book Award Week
Check out the list of nominees
By viewing the list of nominees for this award, you can discover a new wonderful author, who could even become your favorite writer! It is a great time to “meet” a new favorite author.
Read a book
During the week, you can enjoy the experience of fully immersing yourself in the literary world. See what nominated authors you know, and those you don’t!
Share the story
If you do not want to spend this week alone, then spread the word on social networks. You will be amazed at the number of people who will join that celebration with you.
5 Facts About Books That Will Blow Your Mind
There are over 129 million books
Now, this number of books is much bigger.
The longest printed sentence is 823 words
This sentence exists in “Les Miserables” by Victor Hugo.
The first typewritten book was Mark Twain’s
The book was called “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and was very popular among school children.
One book a day
President Theodore Roosevelt used to read one book per day.
Icelandic people are the greatest bookworms
Maybe it’s because of the weather, or maybe they were just taught to love books.
Why National Book Award Week is Important
A significant cause
To expand the readership and ensure that books have a prominent place in American culture, this is a cause truly worthy of support. Join in today!
We love books
Even in the internet era, knowledge still remains within books. Take some time out to revisit your favorite book.
Author appreciation
Awarded authors have gone through a lot to fulfill such a significant accomplishment. Being awarded means that their books have not only reached the readers’ hearts but also publishers’.
National Book Award Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | November 7–13 | Saturday–Friday |
| 2027 | November 7–13 | Sunday–Saturday |
| 2028 | November 7–13 | Tuesday–Monday |
| 2029 | November 7–13 | Wednesday–Tuesday |
| 2030 | November 7–13 | Thursday–Wednesday |
Social Media Tips for National Book Award Week
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