- Books considered for the Awards should invite answers to one or more of the following questions:
- How can people peaceably settle disputes but with a special emphasis on diverse make-up and outlook?
- How can we begin to think more creatively and humanely about injustice and conflict, past or present, real or fictionalized?
- How can young people participate in creative solutions to the problems of war, social injustice, racism, sexism, homophobia, ageism, and the concerns of the physically challenged?
- How can people of all races, cultures, nations and economic systems live peacefully together?
- Does the book promote an understanding of the role of women in society, gender roles, the need to overcome gender stereotypes, e.g. role models of both genders?
- Book themes may include:
- Solving problems courageously and non-violently
- Overcoming prejudice
- Breaking cycles of fear
- Approaching life with self-confidence and strength
- Understanding human needs with compassion
- Broadening outlook to appreciate a variety of cultures
- Accepting responsibility for the future of all peoples.
- Books eligible for this award may be fiction, poetry or nonfiction.
- Entries should be suitable for ages two through twelve.
- Entries may be books of any length.
- Entries should be well-written and well-illustrated (however, illustrations are not required).
--Adopted by the Jane Addams Peace Association, January 1994